How to Spend Memorial Day Weekend in Big Bear
Planning Memorial Day Weekend in Big Bear? Here’s everything you need to know—events, things to do, where to stay, and how to make the most of your trip.
From Maifest at the Convention Center to lakeside BBQs and the Memorial Day 5K, Big Bear is one of Southern California’s most popular mountain destinations for the holiday weekend. This guide breaks down exactly what to do and where to stay so you can plan your trip faster.
Memorial Day Weekend in Big Bear: Quick Guide
- Best events: Maifest, Big Bear Lake BBQ Festival, Memorial Day 5K
- Best for: Families, couples, groups, outdoor lovers
- Top activities: Boating, hiking, live music, food festivals
- Where to stay: Cabins near The Village, Big Bear Lake, and Convention Center
- When to book: At least 2–4 weeks in advance (this weekend fills fast)
Find a Big Bear Cabin Rental
Top Memorial Day Events in Big Bear
Big Bear Maifest (Convention Center)
- Dates: May 23–24, 2026
- Location: Big Bear Lake Convention Center
- What to expect: German-inspired beer garden, live music, food, and family-friendly activities
- Best for: Groups and couples looking for a lively atmosphere
- Dates: May 23–24, 2026
- Location: Meadow Park
- What to expect: BBQ, live music, local vendors
- Best for: Food lovers and casual weekend visitors
- Date: May 24, 2026
- Location: The Village
- What to expect: Scenic race through Big Bear
- Best for: Active travelers and families
Where to Stay for Memorial Day Weekend
Staying near the events makes a big difference during Memorial Day Weekend in Big Bear. Traffic and parking can get busy, so choosing the right location helps you spend more time enjoying your trip.
- Near The Village: Walk to restaurants, shops, and the Memorial Day 5K
- Near the Convention Center: Ideal for Maifest access
- Lakefront cabins: Perfect for boating, relaxing, and views
Browse Big Bear cabin rentals and book directly on our website to avoid up to 26% in third-party fees from Airbnb and VRBO.
Do You Need a Car in Big Bear for Memorial Day Weekend?
Not always. If you stay near The Village or close to event locations, you can walk to many activities. Big Bear also offers seasonal transportation options, including trolley routes that connect key areas around the lake.
If you’re coming up from Los Angeles without a car or want more flexibility, private transportation services like Jazzy Bear can help with pickups and drop-offs.
FAQs: Memorial Day Weekend in Big Bear
Yes, Memorial Day Weekend is one of the busiest weekends of the year. Booking your cabin early is recommended.
Top activities include attending Maifest, the BBQ Festival, the Memorial Day 5K, boating on Big Bear Lake, and hiking nearby trails.
The best areas are near The Village, Big Bear Lake, and the Convention Center, depending on which events you plan to attend.
Yes, especially if you stay near central areas. Some transportation options and walkable locations make it possible to get around without driving.
Planning a trip to Big Bear for Memorial Day Weekend?
Book your stay with our Big Bear cabin rentals directly on our website and avoid up to 26% in third-party fees from Airbnb and VRBO.
Browse available cabins and stay close to the events.
Memorial Day In Big Bear – Additional Links
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