KILLEEN – The City of Killeen is preparing for a vibrant lineup of events this spring, bringing the community together to honor fallen service members, celebrate local culture, promote wellness, and support local businesses.

In her monthly conversation with KNCT on Monday, Killeen Mayor Debbie Nash-King discussed the upcoming events. To hear the interview in its entirety, visit the show’s page here.

The Memorial Day Ceremony will take place on Monday, May 26, at 9 a.m. at the Central Texas State Veterans Cemetery (11463 State Highway 195). The event will feature a keynote address from Gen. James E. Rainey, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Futures Command, who leads 30,000 soldiers and civilians across 128 locations worldwide.

The ceremony will include participation from:

  • Fort Cavazos 1st Cavalry Division and Band
  • Area Veterans Advisory Committee (AVAC)
  • Texas Veterans Land Board

A wreath-laying ceremony will be held, with veteran and civic organizations invited to participate. Interested groups must register with AVAC by Friday, May 9 at (254) 702-0465 or visit AVAC’s website. Those posting tier colors and wreaths must arrive by 8:30 a.m.

Ahead of Memorial Day, the Fallen Heroes 5K will take place on Saturday, May 3, at 8 a.m. at the Purser Heritage Hike and Bike Trail (8001 Pyrite Drive). This annual run honors those who have served and fallen in the line of duty.

The entry fee is $25, with registration available at KilleenTexas.gov/Centex. Participants who register by April 25 will receive a commemorative T-shirt. The registration fee will increase after April 28.

The race is part of the Cen-Tex Race Series, which hosts events throughout Central Texas. Points will be awarded to top finishers in each age group, with standings and event schedules available at KilleenTexas.gov/Centex.

Before these events, Killeen will kick off the month with the Celebrate Killeen Festival on Saturday, April 26, in Historic Downtown Killeen. This free, family-friendly event is one of the city’s largest celebrations, showcasing Killeen’s rich diversity, history, and culture.

Festival highlights include:

  • Live performances featuring music and entertainment
  • Food trucks offering a variety of local flavors
  • Vendor booths with unique goods and crafts
  • A car show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
  • Festival activities running from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Those interested in registering for the car show can do so early at MidTexasCorvetteClub.org.

Adding to the excitement, the Spring Farmers Market returns to Historic Downtown Killeen at 100 East Avenue D. The Night Market will be featured for five Fridays, having already begun on April 11 and continuing through May 16, from 6 to 9 p.m.

The Spring Night Market will showcase nearly two dozen local artisans, craft brewers, chefs, bakers, food trucks, live music, and fresh produce as the season progresses.

These events provide an opportunity for the Killeen community to come together in honoring the sacrifices of military personnel, celebrating local culture, supporting local businesses, and promoting wellness.

For more details on the Memorial Day Ceremony, visit KilleenTexas.gov/Calendar. To register for the Fallen Heroes 5K, visit KilleenTexas.gov/Centex. For information on the Celebrate Killeen Festival, visit KilleenTexas.gov/DowntownEvents. To learn more about the Spring Farmers Market, visit KilleenTexas.gov/Rec.

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