Friday, May 20, 2016 / by Sarah Hunter
MEMORIAL DAY Weekend in ATLANTA
Memorial Day was originally created as a day of remembrance for those that were killed while fighting in the Civil War. Today, however, the holiday is used as a day to honor all Americans that have died while serving our country.
Atlanta Memorial Day activities are about family fun, memorable moments and invigorating nightlife. The perfect activity for you and your family this Memorial Day is in Atlanta. Even if you’re stuck in town for the three-day weekend, there are plenty of ways to celebrate Memorial Day.
1. HONORING VETERANS
5/23–25
On top of a special salute to troops, Stone Mountain’s event includes an extended fireworks finale, lasershow, and three flame cannons that shoot fire almost 100-feet into the air
5/25
Expect at least 150 units marching in Dacula’s 22nd annual parade. Also find out who will wear the Miss Memorial Day 2015 crown.
5/25
A 21-gun salute pays tribute to soldiers. After the military ceremony, enjoy a picnic while listening to live music by bluegrass group The Chuck Nation Band.
2. BEACH PARTIES
5/22–25
You can still hit the beach without the traffic at Callaway Gardens’ water sports event at Robin Lake Beach. Besides spectacular stunts, hear live music, watch films on the beach, enjoy fireworks, rent a paddleboat, play shuffleboard, or jump around in the bounce house.
5/22–25
Rock out on Lake Lanier with live music and beach parties all weekend at LanierWorld.
5/24
If you couldn’t make it to the coast, Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall is bringing the luau to the Old Fourth Ward. Sip on rum punch and nosh on roast pig while listening to live music from The Mystery Men.
3. BEER BACCHANALS
5/23
Enjoy a Terrapin with a turtle at Zoo Atlanta’s annual event, featuring more than 70 beers, Electric Avenue headlining, and yard games.
5/23
Pregame for the Braves vs. Brewers game with six tastings and tour of SweetWater Brewery.
5/24
Move the barbecue out of your backyard, and head to Bone Lick BBQ for live music and smoked specialties, like ribs, pulled pork, chicken, brisket, and housemade sausage.
5. ART HAPPENINGS
5/22-24
Hear more than two dozen jazz performers at this Piedmont Park free fest.
5/22–24
Sport your best Matt Smith bow tie for the 10th-annual “Dr. Who” con at Marriott Century Center. Get down with daleks at the masquerade, cabaret, game night, and celebrity Q&As.
5/23
Kicking off with a parade, the islands come to Historic Fourth Ward Park with this celebration of Caribbean culture.
5/23–24
From slam poetry to a silent auction, this downtown Decatur event showcases all things artistic.
5/23
Screen a day of indie movies—including films on Oppenheimer, breakdancing, and aliens—at the Earl Smith Strand Theater.
5/26
ATLOSCon consists of classes featuring interactive talks across a huge range of topics, including politics, parenting, art, psychology, and fitness
There is much patriotic significance attached to Memorial Day, and there are many events, both public and private, going on. If you travel for the weekend, be sure to plan ahead, book early, and drive safely since roads and airports will be very busy at this time of year.
References:
https://www.eventbrite.com/d/ga--atlanta/memorial-day-weekend/
http://www.atlantamagazine.com/news-culture-articles/17-ways-to-celebrate-memorial-day-weekend-in-atlanta/
