Memorial Day, the U.S. holiday that honors those who have lost their lives in the military, takes place next Monday, May 28th. As Memorial Day is federal holiday, many people will be traveling elsewhere for the long weekend. However, if you will be staying in the Boston area here are some exciting (and free!) ways to spend the holiday.
Memorial Day Parades
Neighborhoods of the greater Boston area will hold memorial day parades over the weekend and on Monday. Most parades will feature local veterans as well as services and activities to honor fallen heroes. Somerville’s Memorial Day celebration was early (Sunday, May 20th) but other parades, such as those in Brookline, Watertown, Belmont, Malden, Medford, Everett and Revere, will take place next Monday.This map shows where, when, and at what time each parade will occur.
The Boston Common Flag Garden
The Massachusetts Military Heroes Fund’s Flag Garden on Boston Common is a Memorial Day tradition. Each Memorial Day tradition hundreds of volunteers help “plant” small American flags at the Commons’ Soldiers and Sailors monument. The completed garden contains over 37,000 flags that represent each Massachusetts service member who lost their life defending the United States since the Revolutionary war.
Free Admission to the MFA and ICA
On Memorial Day Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts and Institute of Contemporary Art are offering free admission to all visitors. This month the MFA and ICA have new exhibits such as “M.C. Escher Infinite Dimensions” and “Phantasmagoria” at the MFA and showcases by Kevin Beasley and Caitlin Keogh at the ICA.
The Run to Remember
Sunday, May 27th is the 14th annual “Run to Remember“, a charity half-marathon or 5 mile race in honor of all first responders who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The race is sponsored by the Boston Police Department and Boston Runner’s Club. The race course, which begins at the Seaport World Trade Center, extends throughout downtown Boston. Proceeds from participant entry and donations will benefit community and children’s programs of the Boston Police Runner’s Club. “The Run to Remember” features other family-friendly events in the days leading up to the race. On Friday and Saturday, the Seaport World Trade Center will host a free Sports and Fitness Expo as well as a variety of activities for children. Popular Boston radio station, Mix 104.1, will also be on site both Saturday and Sunday playing music and providing entertainment.
