CUMMING — The city of Cumming’s annual Memorial Day Ceremonies are set for 11 a.m. Friday at the Veterans War Memorial.

“They’ve done this for many, many years now,” said Crystal Ledford, public information assistant for the city. “It’s held every Friday prior to Memorial Day to honor all veterans really, but especially those who have passed away whether that is in peace time or war time.”

The 2015 event carries added significance.

“This year is a really special year because it is the 20th anniversary of the Avenue of Flags,” Ledford said. “It started in 1995 with just a handful of flags ... It’s about 10 every year new flags to the display.”

The flags, which line Veterans Memorial Boulevard, have grown to 211.

The event Friday will feature a keynote speech from Lt. Col Theodore R. Scott, deputy commander of the 560th Battlefield Surveillance Brigade of the Georgia Army National Guard. The master of ceremonies will be John Arant of Cumming Post 307 of the American Legion.

Other features include the presentation of colors, Pledge of Allegiance, dedication of flags, a rifle salute and dove release. A large crowd is expected.

“I would recommend people get here a little bit early,” Ledford said. “It starts at 11 a.m. Some people get here as early as 10 a.m. to walk around and talk to people. It’s certainly not necessary to get there that early, because we do have plenty of seating.

“It’s supposed to be really warm on Friday too, so people might want to dress for [that].”