Memorial Day is a time to reflect. Held on the last Monday of May, this federal holiday honors the ultimate sacrifice paid by members of the United States Armed Forces and provides a moment of respite as families transition into the summer months ahead. Dallas has plenty of events to choose from this Memorial Day Weekend, including those that directly honor our veterans and military personnel, to lighter events the whole family can enjoy.
This Memorial Day will be a special one for Klyde Warren Park as the space is throwing its first-ever free music festival on May 26th. The Memorial Day Music Fest will be held from 2-10 p.m. and includes everything from rock and jazz, to country and classical, with 12 acts performing across three main stages. If you want a break from the tunes, you can also browse nearby vendor booths or check out the family game zone and face painting stations, which are perfect for entertaining the little ones. Food trucks will also be onsite to provide plenty of food and drink.
Carry the Load will also be hosting its flagship event, the Dallas Memorial March, at Reverchon Park from May 26-27th. Though the organization now operates in cities nationwide, its roots are in Dallas, where it hosted its first march eight years ago as a way to bring back the true meaning of Memorial Day. The 20-hour march will take place on Katy Trail and aims to honor our fallen heroes while raising money to support military, first responders and their families. The two-day event kicks off at noon and includes live music, inspirational speeches, a Vietnam Pinning ceremony and more. No registration or payment is required to attend.
If you’d like to spend the long weekend enjoying a good brew, check out Deep Ellum Brewing Company’s annual Brew-BQ. Now in its sixth year, this event will be held on May 26th from 5-10 p.m. and will include live music from country music singer Zane Williams, delicious BBQ from Triple G Group and tons of outdoor games. In addition to its year-round and seasonal offerings, Deep Ellum Brewing will also unveil unreleased and specialty beers. Tickets run at $35 and include three beers and one plate of BBQ. Note that this is a dog- and kid-friendly event; children under 12 get in free.
On May 27th, beginning at 8:15 p.m., the Dallas Symphony Park Orchestra will play a special Memorial Day concert at Flag Pole Hill as part of their annual Parks Concerts Series. The performance will focus on patriotic tunes and end with a spectacular firework display. Bring your blanket and snacks and settle in for a musical evening. All concerts in this series are free and open to the public.
Finally, two Dallas institutions will be offering free admission to military members on Memorial Day Weekend. From May 25-27th, the Dallas Arboretum will grant free entry to all first responders and active duty members and veterans of the U.S. military with valid photo I.D. And as part of the Blue Stars Museums program, the George W. Bush Presidential Library will also offer free admission to military personnel, veterans and their families from May 18th through Sept. 2nd.
What’s your favorite way to spend Memorial Day Weekend? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
