What do you think of when you hear the words ‘Memorial Day’? I think many would agree that Memorial Day invokes thoughts of enjoying a day off from work, barbecuing in the warm weather (or eating crabs as is my family’s tradition), or perhaps spending the day on the beach with friends. These activities may cause some to forget that Memorial Day exists as a day to remember and honor those who have died while serving in the United States’ armed forces. There’s different ways to observe the holiday without having to hand over your barbecue tongs or beach chair for the whole weekend. The Philadelphia region has lots of different Memorial Day events and parades going on this weekend, and we’ve highlighted some below:
The National Constitution Center – May 23-May 25
Walk through an exhibition that highlights the history of our nation’s memorials. You can also take part in a flag etiquette workshop, play children’s games that were popular during the Revolutionary period, or write a thank you card to an armed forces veteran. And the best part is that admission is FREE on Monday May 25!
Independence National Historic Park – May 23-May 25
The Liberty Bell and Independence Hall will be open to visitors. There will also be soldiers from the American Revolution, a concert with music from the Revolutionary and Civil War eras, and a flag raising ceremony in front of Independence Hall.
There are dozens of parades this weekend from Philadelphia, out to Bucks County, and even down the shore. Check out this website to find one that’s closest to you.
National Moment of Remembrance – Monday, May 25
On Memorial Day at 3pm, take moment to remember and honor those who died while in military service.
And if you don’t already have something fun planned for the weekend, you can check out these other events in the area:
Opening Weekend of Spruce Street Harbor Park
Beer gardens, hammocks, and pop-up resturants… What’s not to love about Spruce Street Harbor Park! This weekend being the park’s opening weekend, they’re featuring lots of activities for kids (think balloon artists, mimes, and face painters). New this year will be the roller skating rink at the BlueCross River Rink which will celebrate with a FREE concert from DJ Jazzy Jeff on Friday May 22nd at 9pm.
Philly Indego Bike Share Program
If you haven’t already tried Philly’s new bike share program, let this be the weekend you test it out while traveling to and from any one of the city’s Memorial Day events.
Yoga on Race Street Pier – May 23-May 25
Enjoy a morning yoga session on the Race Street Pier in Philadelphia. Kids and pets welcome. All classes are FREE!
Superhero Weekend at the Please Touch Museum – May 22-May 25
Dress up as your favorite hero and attend any one of the number of events focusing on real-life heroes and superheroes all weekend long at the Please Touch Museum.
The Philly POPS at Longwood Gardens – Saturday, May 23
Spring is in bloom at Longwood Gardens, and this weekend they’ll have a special concert from the Philly POPS playing Broadway classics and patriotic tunes.
