Since May of 1868, Americans have been commemorating and celebrating fallen soldiers with the holiday now known as Memorial Day. With roots in the Civil War, Memorial Day has only been a federally recognized holiday since 1971 -- since then, Americans nationwide have celebrated with cook-outs, beach trips, lake trips and festivals. To make your Memorial Day one to remember, here are some fun and free things to do with the whole family around Charlotte, North Carolina, this Memorial Day weekend!
Memorial Day Celebration Weekend
Where: U.S. National Whitewater Center (500 Whitewater Center Pkwy, Charlotte, NC 28214)
When: May 27-29, 2016, 12 a.m. to 12 a.m. every day
Overview: Spend the day at the U.S. National Whitewater Center with five to eight-mile trail races starting at nine in the morning and live music into the evening. Bring a picnic blanket and cool off this Memorial Day!
For More Info: Phone (701) 391-3900
Mint Hill Madness
Where: Mint Hill Veteran's Memorial Park (8850 Fairview Road, Mint Hill, NC 28277)
When: May 27, 2016, 4 p.m. - 11 p.m.
May 28, 2016, 11 a.m. - 11 p.m.
May 29, 2016, 12 p.m. - 6 p.m.
Overview: Come enjoy a festival celebrating both Memorial Day and the founding of the town of Mint Hill! Along with the free admission comes live music, arts and crafts booths, a carnival, a parade (beginning at 9 a.m. on May 28), and fireworks to conclude the weekend. Drop by for a great way to celebrate your Memorial Day.
For More Info: Email info@madness.minthill.com, Phone (704) 545-2335
Memorial Day Celebration at Raffaldini
Where: Raffaldini Vineyards & Winery (450 Groce Road Ronda, NC 28670)
When: May 30, 2016, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Overview: Don't be deterred by the location, this event is fun for the whole family! Enjoy music by local musicians and get some sandwiches for lunch from the deli case or enjoy some fresh gelato! All ages can come and have fun with this eclectic summer celebration.
For More Info: Email info@raffaldini.com, Phone (336) 835-9463
Charlotte Farmer's Market National Hamburger Day Festival
Where: Charlotte Regional Farmer's Market (1801 Yorkmont Rd, Charlotte, NC 28217)
When: May 28, 2016, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.
Overview: The four vendors of this regional Farmer's Market will be celebrating Memorial Day and National Hamburger Day by handing out unique hamburger recipes! Come get a delicious Carolina burger this Memorial Day weekend. Don't forget to stop in the Farmer's Market to pick up some ingredients for the perfect cook-out hamburgers!
For More Info: Phone (704) 357-1269
2016 Spring Music Series
Where: Metropolitan (1100 Metropolitan Ave, Charlotte, NC 28204)
When: May 27, 2016, 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.
May 28, 2016, 6 p.m. - 9 p.m.
Overview: Come enjoy some outdoor live music! On May 27, the Brad Bailey Jazz Trio will be featured, and on May 28, Side Effect will be featured. Don't miss out on these fun nights of music, food, and shopping to ring in your Memorial Day weekend!
For More Info: Phone (704) 552-1700
Enjoy your Memorial Day weekend and don't forget to honor those who have fallen for our freedom!