Memorial Day has got to be one of the best holidays. This federal holiday originated after the civil war to commemorate the fallen soldiers on both sides. Today it’s recognozied as the unofficial start of summer and synonymous with BBQs, pool parties, shopping, fireworks, family gatherings and all things American. Many people take off for the Jersey shore, but if you’re going to be in Philadelphia there are many ways to enjoy a “staycation.” Here are some fun events all weekend long.
Friday, May 25
Morgan’s Pier Opens: Morgan’s Pier, a new waterfront beer garden and club opens on Columbus Boulevard. From Sean Agnew of R5 productions, Philadelphia DJ Dave P. and the partners of Union Transfer comes the first non-cheesy Delaware Avenue establishment. The club will serve a backyard BBQ inspired menu and hosts DJs and band.
Martini’s on the Portico and the Philadelphia Museum of Art: Enjoy happy hour cocktails from the top of the Art Museum steps and check out after hour’s access to the world-class museum’s art collection.
Maya 2012: Lords of Time at the Penn Museum: Mayan folklore took center stage this year and captivated our curiosity with the prediction that the world would end. Beginning May 25th the Penn Museum will host an elaborate exhibition showcasing Mayan artifacts.
Saturday, May 26
Sixers vs. Celtics game 7 in Round 2 of the NBA Playoffs: Super exciting playoff game for the 76ers. If you weren’t lucking enough to have tickets, now would be an excellent time to check out the Xfinity Live! If you haven’t already. 8:00 PM on ABC.
Fireworks and Fountains at Longwood Gardens: The launch party for this breathtakingly beautiful series begins this night. It is hard to imagine anything more serene than watching a Fireworks display while listening to Tchaikovsky’s Swan Lake while luxuriating on blankets at Longwood Gardens.
Morris Arboretum’s Storytime Rail Opens: This is a great event for kids and kids at heart. Check out this adorable mini railroad with stops at classic storybook landmarks, set in a lush summer garden.
Sunday, May 27
The Laurel Hill Memorial Day Parade: The traditional “Decoration Day” service will be recreated at the historic Laurel Hill Cemetery, the site of the very first Memorial Day observance in Philadelphia. Beer and refreshments will be served after the service.
Barnes Foundation Memorial Day Weekend Round the Clock Activities (Fri, sat, Sun, Mon): The Barnes Foundation at its controversial brand new home on the parkway will celebrate it’s grand opening with 56 consecutive hours of free access and activities. On Saturday Night there’s a midnight film series and Sunday morning a sunrise meditation yoga class. Whoa!
Memorial Day Fireworks at Sesame Place: a fireworks display set to the music of Sesame Place.
Monday, May 28
Memorial Weekend at Chaddsford Winery: They’ll be wine tasting in the cellar, and serving boozy slushies and barbeque outside.
Memorial day Weekend celebration at the National Constitution Center: Patriotic holidays make you remember what a pivotal role Philadelphia played in our nation’s history. Celebrate Memorial Day with a little patriotic karaoke at the Constitution Center.
Franklin Square Memorial Celebration: kick off summer with free activities for the whole family.