Memorial Day is a special day to remember and honor those who have served and sacrificed for our country It s also a time to enjoy the beautiful spring weather and spend time with family and friends If you re in New York for Memorial Day this year there s no shortage of things to do From parades to picnics here s our guide to the best Memorial Day activities in NY .
Memorial Day is a special day to remember and honor those who have served and sacrificed for our country. It's also a time to enjoy the beautiful spring weather and spend time with family and friends. If you're in New York for Memorial Day this year, there's no shortage of things to do. From parades to picnics, here's our guide to the best Memorial Day activities in NY.
Table of Contents:
Parades:
One of the most traditional ways to celebrate Memorial Day is by attending a parade. New York City hosts several parades throughout the weekend. The Little Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade is one of the largest and oldest parades in the country. It's held on Memorial Day itself and features marching bands, floats, and military units. Another popular parade is the Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade, which takes place on Saturday before Memorial Day.
If you're not in the city, there are plenty of parades in other towns and cities throughout the state. Check your local listings to see if there's a parade near you.
Picnics:
Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer, and what better way to celebrate than with a picnic? Pack a basket with your favorite foods and head to one of New York's many parks. Central Park and Prospect Park are both great options in the city. If you're looking for something a little more off the beaten path, try Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx or Jones Beach State Park on Long Island.
Don't forget to bring plenty of sunscreen and water, and be sure to clean up after yourself when you're done.
Beaches:
If you're looking to cool off on Memorial Day, head to one of New York's beaches. Coney Island is a classic choice, with its boardwalk, amusement park, and famous hot dogs. Brighton Beach is another great option, with its large Russian community and excellent food. Jones Beach and Long Beach are both popular choices on Long Island.
Remember to check the weather and water conditions before you go, and always swim near a lifeguard.
Museums:
If you're looking for something a little more educational, New York has plenty of museums to choose from. The National September 11 Memorial & Museum is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served our country. The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is another great option, with its collection of aircraft and spacecraft. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is always a crowd-pleaser, with its vast collection of art and artifacts from around the world.
Be sure to check each museum's hours of operation, as some may have special Memorial Day hours.
Concerts:
Finally, if you're looking for some live music on Memorial Day, you're in luck. New York hosts several concerts throughout the weekend. The National Memorial Day Concert is held on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., but you can watch it live on PBS. The Fleet Week Concert is another popular choice, with performances by military bands and other artists.
Check your local listings for other concerts and events in your area.
Tips for Memorial Day in NY:
- Stay hydrated - it can get hot in New York in May!
- Wear sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- Bring plenty of snacks and water if you're attending a parade or event.
- Be respectful during any Memorial Day ceremonies or events.
- Check each event's hours of operation and any special rules or regulations.
FAQ:
Q: What is Memorial Day?
A: Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States to remember and honor those who have died while serving in the armed forces.
Q: When is Memorial Day?
A: Memorial Day is always observed on the last Monday in May.
Q: What are some traditional Memorial Day activities?
A: Some traditional Memorial Day activities include attending parades, visiting cemeteries and memorials, and displaying the American flag.
Pros and Cons:
Pros: There are plenty of things to do in New York on Memorial Day, from parades to picnics to concerts.
Cons: Some events may be crowded or have long lines, so be sure to plan accordingly.
