This post was updated on May 17, 2017, with information for Memorial Day 2017.
Memorial Day is coming up on May 29, 2017. Below are some suggestions for activities to commemorate the holiday over Memorial Day weekend.
Be a part of something. Start your day commemorating our veterans by attending Chicago’s Wreath Laying Ceremony, followed by the annual Memorial Day Parade—one of the largest Memorial Day parades in the nation!. The Wreath Laying Ceremony begins at 11am at Daley Plaza (Dearborn and Washington Streets). The parade will commence at noon and proceed south on State Street from Lake Street to Van Buren Street until completion.
Enjoy yourself. What would Memorial Day be without the smell of barbeque wafting in the air? Enjoy a quaint picnic or barbeque at one of the following prime picnic spot’s: Mary Bartelme Park, Commercial Park, or Palmisano Park. Or, let someone cook for you while you enjoy the company of a friend or loved one on Chicago’s Memorial Day Weekend Booze Cruise—eat, drink, and dance the night away!
Be in awe. Visit Navy Pier on Saturday at dusk to kick off summer with the first fireworks show of the year! The fireworks start at 10:15 pm. Visit the Navy Pier web site for the full schedule for this year.
Be Festive. Visit the Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival Saturday and Sunday from noon to 10 p.m. Or take a trip to the Randolph Street Market Festival for a global goods bazaar Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Be Fit. Join one of the hundreds of Chicagoans that tackled the challenge of biking the drive on Sunday, May 28!
Veg out. After a long weekend of activities, take some time to relax in the sun at one of Chicago’s many beaches. From the South Shore to Rogers Park, beaches are open for business Memorial Day weekend!
Show your appreciation. Take a moment to thank and honor the men and women who have served our country with pride and courage. Write a letter to a soldier overseas, volunteer, or make a small donation to support our troops and veterans.
