For over 30 years Thomasville has hosted North Carolina Memorial Day Parade and Celebration It has become the largest such event in the Southeastern United States. Festivities typically include a parade, members of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, military bands, paratroopers, Blackhawk helicopters, Vietnam era helicopters, participants from all branches of the armed forces, a keynote address from a high national-ranking military official, free hot dogs, drinks and much more.