Looking for things to do in DC this Memorial Day weekend? For many in the area of our nation’s capital, Memorial Day weekend means venturing into the District to honor the servicemen and servicewomen of our country. Here are 5 of the top ways you can celebrate Memorial Day weekend 2015 in the Washington, DC area.
1. Jazz in the Garden
Friday May 22, 5 PM
Kick off your Memorial Day weekend by stepping into the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden to listen to the sweet sounds of the opening of this summer series. The Jazz in the Garden 2015 season runs through August 28, and features 15 of the area’s most acclaimed jazz musicians playing jazz guitar, salsa, old school funk, and everything in between. Bring a picnic basket, lay down a blanket, and relax in this beautiful park.
2. The Rolling Thunder Run Motorcycle Rally
Sunday May 24, 12 PM
More than 900,000 bikers from across the country attend the Rolling Thunder Run on Memorial Day weekend. The main event is on Sunday, when the Rolling Thunder XXVIII First Amendment Demonstration Run occurs, starting in the North Pentagon parking lot, running through the Mall area. Whether you ride or watch, the Rolling Thunder Run is always a must-see (and must-hear!) event.
3. The National Memorial Day Concert
Sunday May 24, 8 PM
Hosted by PBS, the 26th annual National Memorial Day Concert takes place on the eve of Memorial Day on the West Lawn of the Capitol. The concert will consist of musical performances from a star-studded lineup, documentary footage, and dramatic readings to honor servicemembers and their families. The concert is free and open to the public. Watch it at home on PBS and via the American Forces Network.
4. National Memorial Day Parade
Monday May 25, 2 PM
If you’re in DC for Memorial Day, the National Memorial Day Parade is an absolute must. The parade, which is organized by the American Veterans Center, has been running since 2005. Stand on Constitution Avenue in the heart of DC and watch more than 250,000 parade participants, ranging from marching bands to veterans to float riders. Can’t make it to the parade? Watch it at home on News Channel 8, REELZ, streaming on Military.com, or via the American Forces Network.
5. Tour the National Mall Memorials
Year-round
The Capitol area is full of memorials to American servicemembers. Walk the National Mall and visit some of the most famous: the Washington Monument, the World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the DC War Memorial.
What are you doing for Memorial Day weekend 2015? Let ApartmentSearch.com know by connecting on Twitter and Facebook!
