Under clear blue skies and a gentle spring breeze, community members gathered Monday, May 25, to honor fallen service members at Bonners Ferry’s annual Memorial Day observance. 

The annual Memorial Day parade has long served as one of the community’s most visible traditions of remembrance, bringing generations of families together to honor those who gave their lives in military service. 

The parade began with the presentation of the colors by the Bonners Ferry Fire Department Color Guard and the national anthem performed by Chaplain Len Pine. 

Crowds lined the streets to watch as floats, classic vehicles, businesses, organizations and local groups made their way through downtown. Children rushed to collect candy tossed from participants while families waved flags and cheered as they passed by.  

Among the longtime participants was a vehicle that has been part of the Bonners Ferry Memorial Day Parade for 27 years and is now being driven by a third generation of the same family, parade announcer Mark Carpenter told the crowd. 

Following the parade, attendees gathered at noon at Grandview Cemetery for a memorial ceremony honoring deceased veterans. American flags had been placed on veterans’ graves throughout the cemetery, as well as large flags lining the pathways, creating a striking display across the grounds as the breeze carried the sound of fluttering flags through the peaceful setting. 

After the ceremony, a community lunch was hosted at the Boundary County Fairgrounds. 

Originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day began in the years following the Civil War as a time for Americans to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags. Over time, the observance evolved into a national day of remembrance honoring all U.S. military personnel who died in service to their country. Today, Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May with ceremonies, parades and tributes held in communities across the nation. 

The Bonners Ferry Memorial Day events were organized and hosted by the American Legion Post 55 and VFW Post 3622. 

    Miss Bonners Ferry Teen at the Memorial Day parade 2026  

    2026 Bonners Ferry Memorial Day parade. Participating vehicle that has been in the parade for 27 years and is being driven by third generation.  

    Grandview Cemetery Memorial Day 2026