Ferndale's Memorial Day Parade, previously known as the Decoration Day Parade, began in 1882, when the participants were mainly Civil War veterans who organized themselves as the Grand Army of the Republic. In the early 1900s, the Native Sons of the Golden West, Ferndale Parlor #93, began oversight of the parade in Ferndale, assuming responsibility from the Grand Army of the Republic as its numbers dwindled. After World War II, the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars joined with the Native Sons to continue the celebration. Each year, residents and individuals throughout Humbolt County gather on Main Street to remember those who have fallen in the line of duty. The parade proceeds to Ocean Avenue and then to the Ferndale Cemetery, where Memorial Day services are held. Ferndale's Memorial Day Parade is recognized as one of the oldest continuous Memorial Day parades in California.