Building on the Memorial Day Eve ceremony hosted by the Dutchess County Division of Veterans Services since 2012, on Sunday, May 26, Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park is joining with officials from Dutchess County, Ulster County, and American Legion Post 739 to hold a moving sunset flag changing and illuminate the Walkway with luminaries as we remember, honor, and celebrate the lives lost in defense of our nation. The event is complimentary to attend and open to the public.

Luminaries will line the Walkway as veterans, honor guards, elected officials, and attendees make their way to the Center Overlook at 7:30 p.m. The retired colors will be presented to a local family who lost a loved one in service to America. Immediately following, the Walkway will remain open and accessible until 10:15 p.m. for a patriotic-themed Walkway at Night event.

“We are thrilled to partner with Walkway Over the Hudson, Ulster County, and so many of our veterans organizations to see this event enhanced and expanded to be even more significant and memorable with the luminaries all along the length of the Walkway,” said Marcus Molinaro, Dutchess County Executive.

“We hope the Hudson Valley community continues to embrace this event and recognizes what a striking display of remembrance we can make by lighting the Walkway with luminaries,” said Elizabeth Waldstein-Hart, Executive Director, Walkway Over the Hudson. “We’re grateful for the support of Dutchess County, Ulster County, and the local veterans organizations to make this evening truly special.”

The Friends of the Walkway seek the help of the Hudson Valley community to make a striking and significant luminary display during this event. Lanterns are available to purchase at both Walkway pavilions. The cost is $10, or three for $25. Luminaries can be personalized and left on the Walkway to be randomly placed by volunteers, or personally brought to the event on May 26.

All proceeds support Walkway Over the Hudson in hosting veterans groups for monthly flag changing ceremonies honoring local veterans and their families, keeping the Walkway accessible to all, adding amenities to the bridge, and undertaking significant capital improvement projects.

The flag changing will proceed rain or shine. The rain date for the luminaries and Walkway at Night is Friday, May 31.

On days on which the Walkway’s pavilions are open, supporters are invited to sign one of the remembrance banners at each Walkway approach with a message honoring a loved one. These banners will hang throughout the duration of the Memorial Day event.

For large quantity orders or information about how a custom e-blast and flyer can be created for a specific organization, call 845-454-9649 or email walkway@walkway.org.