Memorial Park

Historical Significance

Memorial Park is a 67-acre public park located near the Dundee neighborhood of Omaha, Nebraska. Established in 1948, the park was dedicated as a memorial to the armed services men and women from Douglas County who perished during World War II.

The park features several monuments honoring men and women of the armed forces who were killed or missing during service in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. In 1990, Woodmen of the World added flagpoles and flags along the driveway entering the park, further emphasizing its patriotic theme.

Notable Features

One of the park's notable features is the All-American Rose Society Garden, which was added in 1959 and contains over 1,000 rose bushes tended by volunteers during the growing season.

The park's landscape includes rolling green lawns and provides an excellent setting for outdoor activities and events. It is connected to Elmwood Park via a pedestrian bridge over Dodge Street, completed in 1968, enhancing accessibility and expanding recreational opportunities for visitors.

Community Gatherings

Memorial Park serves as a significant gathering place for the community. It hosts an annual concert and fireworks show on the last Friday in June to commemorate Independence Day, attracting over 50,000 people each year.

The event, currently called "The City of Omaha Celebrates America," has featured various musical acts since 1987. The park continues to serve as a place for remembrance, reflection, and community engagement, maintaining its significance in Omaha's cultural and historical landscape.