Parades, memorial services, events, and more mark Memorial Day weekend in North Carolina. Here are 18 things you can do to celebrate.
Memorial Day was first observed in the US on May 30, 1868. The day was created to help remember and honor those who gave their lives in service to our country, and has typically been celebrated with parades and memorial services. Over the years, it has morphed into a weekend for outdoor activities, and North Carolina is no stranger to this development.
Regardless of where you live in the state, most cities and towns will hold Memorial Day events, though what they entail varies from place to place. In Wilmington, there’s a more somber gathering at the Battleship North Carolina, whereas Sugar Mountain hosts a wealth of engaging activities, including scenic lift rides. Oftentimes, places will blend the two for a mix of sorrowful and joyful celebrations.
No matter what you choose to do over Memorial Day weekend in North Carolina, we hope you take a few minutes to remember the people who made the ultimate sacrifice to safeguard our freedoms.
Things to do in Wilmington
Wilmington is one of those cities hosting a combination of Memorial Day weekend activities. If you’re looking for something more upbeat that the whole family will enjoy, the Orange Street ArtsFest runs from May 24-25, and there’s a free showing of “Moana 2” at the Carolina Beach Lake Park on the 25th. There’s an impressive fireworks display on May 23, and Umphrey’s McGee is playing at the Greenfield Lake Amphitheater at 7 p.m. on the 24th.
To pay your respects in a quieter way, head to the Battleship North Carolina at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day to attend a free service. The hour-long remembrance features a 21-gun salute, a military band playing taps, a guest speaker, a Color Guard, and a memorial wreath laid in the water. For more information on that, please click here. To learn more about the numerous historic sites located throughout Wilmington, where you can also pay your respects, follow this link.
Things to do in Sugar Mountain
Memorial Day weekend in Sugar Mountain, North Carolina, is an occasion geared toward people who want to spend their extra day off doing something adventurous. From May 23-26, mountain biking and scenic lift rides are two of the most popular attractions. Whether you want to ride the lift to the 5,300-foot summit and then ride down over 1,200 vertical feet of trails (!), or you simply want to take the lift to enjoy the view, both options are available. I’m afraid of heights, so I’m politely declining all the way around.
If you’re also afraid of heights, don’t worry, you don’t have to engage in adrenaline-fueled activities to enjoy your time here. There’s also a food truck festival on the 24th, an arts & crafts event called Art on the Greene, and the Grillin’ & Chillin’ Live Music and Dinner Season Kick-Off. Sugar Mountain is home to a golf course and tennis courts, among numerous other engaging offerings, which you can learn more about here.
Things to do in Thomasville
Thomasville holds a variety of annual events and festivals—take a look at the full calendar of events by clicking here. In terms of Memorial Day, this is the place to be if you want to respectfully observe the holiday while keeping yourself and your kids entertained. There’s a keynote address from a military official of high national ranking, plus free hot dogs and drinks. The parade itself is composed of military bands, Blackhawk helicopters, paratroopers, members of the Military Order of the Purple Heart, Vietnam-era helicopters, and participants from every branch of the US armed forces.
The event begins at 9 a.m. and is free to attend. Additional information can be found here. A Coffee with Veterans event is being held on May 28 at 10 a.m. for anyone who is interested in attending that as well.
Things to do at the Whitewater Center in Charlotte
The Whitewater Center in Charlotte is holding a two-day celebration from May 24-25, featuring yoga, a trail race, and live music. The entire schedule of events can be found here, and those events specifically planned over Memorial Day weekend are free to attend. Jovin Webb and Harper O’Neil will be performing on Sunday, with Jovin playing first at 7 p.m. and Harper following his performance at 8:30 p.m.
The Center is open for other activities during this time as well, including whitewater rafting, kayaking, and hiking. Plus, there’s a zipline, rope courses, and rock climbing, though you’ll have to pay for activities outside of the designated free Memorial Day offerings. For more info on that, click here.
Things to do in Asheville
The 4th Annual Downtown Asheville Memorial Day Weekend Festival of the Arts is scheduled for May 24 and 25 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 80 Court Plaza. The festival is free to attend and provides a calmer alternative for those who want to spend the weekend outdoors but prefer to enjoy more low-key activities than those listed in this article.
As you walk through the designated festival displays along the North and South Pack Square, you’ll see one-of-a-kind works of art, glasswork, sculptures, jewelry, and more. Details regarding food and beverage options at the event were not immediately available, but you’re close to several restaurants, bars, and coffee shops in this area.
Things to do in Brunswick Islands
Rounding out our Memorial Day weekend in North Carolina are the ceremonies, concerts, activities, and markets on Brunswick Islands. In Sunset Beach, a ceremony to honor fallen members of the US military will be held at 10 a.m. on May 26 that will include a keynote address and an honor guard. You’re close to Wilmington here as well, so if you’re already planning on attending the Battleship North Carolina service, you can travel to Brunswick Islands after to explore this beautiful collection of towns and beaches.
For more information about upcoming summer concerts and markets, as well as kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities, please click here. There isn’t anything specifically planned for Memorial Day weekend, but you can explore the various options to see what may interest you in the area.
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