Jenna Greaves
Are you looking for the perfect way to celebrate Memorial Day weekend and usher in the official start of summer? Look no further! There’s no better way to celebrate the day off than spending it with friends and family (especially when it’s free). Whether you want a weekend packed with adventure or to do a lot of nothing, here are five ways to make the most of your long weekend without breaking the bank.
Friday, May 26 – Monday, May 29
5 p.m. Fri & Sat / 2 p.m. Sun & Mon
Promenade at Sunset Walk, 3251 Margaritaville Blvd. Kissimmee
With something new to enjoy daily, this event will keep the family busy and dancing all weekend. Check out the event for one day or stay for all four! The festivities kick off on Friday with a car show and rock ‘n’ roll tributes that will transport you back to the ’80s and ’90s. The party continues on Saturday with pop, top 40, and rock ‘n’ roll music to jam to while you shop around the street and craft market. Dance the night away on Sunday and Monday with live music and local DJs guaranteed to keep the music going all weekend.
Friday, May 26
7 p.m. – 10 p.m.
Snap! Downtown, 420 E Church St, Orlando
Start your Memorial Day weekend off by embracing your inner art critic. Be one of the first to experience Central Florida artist Ashley Taylor’s newest art installation, “PETTY,” at Snap! Orlando’s annual showcase. Sip on craft cocktails and bounce to music by DJ Nigel John and Philip Kennedy while checking out current and past exhibits by local, national, and international artists—no need to fret if you miss out on the opening night. The exhibition will be open throughout the summer, closing on August 26.
Saturday, May 27
7 p.m. – 11 p.m.
Wekiva Island, 1014 Miami Springs Drive, Longwood
Spend the day soaking up the sun and chilling out on Wekiva Island, then laze the night away by the river as you listen to up-and-coming indie artist Cat Ridgeway perform her latest hits live at The Tooting Otter Bar. While enjoying the soulful sounds of Cat Ridgeway, sip on craft beer and wine from the bar. Remember that happy hour at The Tooting Otter Bar is from 5 to 7 p.m. with $1 off all beer and wine, so be an early bird to Cat Ridgeway’s performance to get discounted drinks!
Sunday, May 28
9:45 a.m. – 11 a.m.
Cypress Grove Park, 209 Holden Avenue, Orlando
Take a moment this weekend to remember what Memorial Day is really about. In honor of those who bravely served our country, Cypress Grove Park is hosting a memorial day salute, complete with folding the American flag and an exceptional patriotic guest speaker. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for a morning in the park to watch the VFW Post 2093 Community Band, veteran pinning ceremony, and posting of colors.
Wild Florida Annual Gator Week
Monday, May 29
Wild Florida, 3301 Lake Cypress Rd, Kenansville
Gator week at Wild Florida starts just in time as the long Memorial Day weekend ends. Anyone with a knack for learning about Florida’s unofficial mascot, the alligator, is welcome to enjoy free admission to Wild Florida’s Gator Park between May 29 and June 3. Come face to face with the beast as you explore your way through exciting shows, show off your knowledge with alligator trivia, and bring out your inner artist in a gator cake decorating contest. They will top off the day with a party honoring National Alligator Day.
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