4 Great Memorial Day Weekend Events You Don’t Want to Miss
Memorial Day weekend is an exciting one, as it feels like the first weekend of summer. The combination of sunshine and an extended weekend holiday makes it the perfect time for outdoor events and festivals. All around the U.S. there are historical, musical and recreational events that you and your family can enjoy. Take advantage of your Memorial Day this year and visit one of these awesome events:
Sasquatch Music Festival
The Sasquatch Music Festival takes place at the Gorge Amphitheater, approximately three hours from Seattle, Washington. The venue lies above a large cliff of the Columbia River Gorge, where the beautiful desert setting makes for an unforgettable venue. The festival runs from May 27-30, rain or shine. Camping is available for festival-goers or there are nearby accommodations at resorts and hotels. There are a wide variety of food options — from funnel cakes to vegan burritos — and vendors that provide alcoholic beverages. The 2016 lineup includes Florence and The Machine, The Cure, Alabama Shakes, M83, Sufjan Stevens, Grime, Major Lazer, A$AP Rocky, Chet Faker, Jamie XX, Tycho, Purity Ring and Allen Stone.
Indianapolis 500
This year is the 100th anniversary of the Indianapolis 500, which runs from May 16-29. The event includes many fun traditions, like the 500 parade, the playing of the song “Indiana,” multi-colored balloon release, drinking of the milk and the award ceremony of the Borg-Warner trophy. The traditions have risen from the fascinating history of the race, which you can read up on at TireBuyer’s site. The festivities extend beyond the race track, with many food vendors, beer gardens, kid-friendly activities and live music. The Firestone Legends Day Concert on May 28th features Blake Shelton, Chris Janson and Corey Cox. You can purchase Indy 500 travel packages on their official website, which groups together hotel accommodations, race tickets, round-trip transportation and souvenirs.
Fleet Week, New York City
Fleet Week is NYC’s celebration of the sea services. This is the event’s 28th year, where the citizens of New York meet sailors, marines, and coast guardsmen as they enter the city on their marine vessels. The event takes place from May 25-31. Most of the ships have visiting hours that are between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. and will be docked at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, Pier 86N and the Sullivans Homeport Pier in Staten Island. It is recommended you wear comfortable clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses and good walking shoes for your ship visit. You can still enjoy the Fleet Week festivities on land, where you’ll see marine servicemen enjoy NYC’s recreational activities and nightlife. Don’t be shy — go up and introduce yourself and ask them questions about their unique experiences at sea.
Bike The Drive
Kick off the Chicago summer with an early morning bike race. The Bike The Drive event has occurred for the past 15 years, where cycling enthusiasts take a group ride along Lake Shore Drive. The ride supports the Active Transportation Alliance — a nonprofit organization that dedicates its efforts for increased convenience and safety of active transportation like bicycling, walking and public transit. The event begins at 5:30 a.m. and ends around 10 am. — the earlier you arrive, the longer you have for your ride. The route offers great views of Lake Michigan and there is a post-ride festival with live music and a pancake breakfast.
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