Memorial Day: a day to remember and honor those who have put forth incredible bravery and sacrifice for our country, including their own life. A day to remember what the terms "freedom" and "democracy," actually mean and where they come from.
And – at the risk of sounding blasé – Memorial Day is the gateway to summer, white shoes and most importantly of all – a three day weekend.
But who's to say mixing in a little history and reflection can't lead to a fun and glorious weekend? This Memorial Day, Richmond.com has your guide to special events being held throughout the city to help you have fun and celebrate our nation's heroes.
Saturday, May 24
Hopewell Gallery of Art Worcz Memorial Weekend Event
The Gallery presents the "Soul Unlimited Band" and a variety of different poets including Jearil Stokes, Pam Callahan, Kevin Harris and special guest poets "True" and Jamelle "Diphyia" Tibbs among others. Refreshments will be served. 7:30 p.m. $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Reservations are recommended. For more information, call 804-452-1341.
Sunday, May 25
The Metropolitan Business League Memorial Day Weekend Jazz Fest
Legendary jazz and soul artist, Phil Perry will take the stage at Toad's Place with his remarkable vocals and local legends, Plunky & Oneness as openers. Located on the canal will be DJ Williams as well as Carlton Ayles & Legacy. A reception will be held before the show from 4 to 6 p.m. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20 for general admission, $30 for gold circle seating, $40 for VIP and can be purchased at the MBL Office (115 E. Marshall Street), BK Music, Plan 9 Records and at the Toad's Place box office. For more information, call 804-649-7473 or visit themlb.org.
Monday, May 26
Memorial Day Ceremony at the Virginia War Memorial
Guest speaker, Andy Robertson, Department Commander of the American Legion, will speak at the ceremony held to honor the nation's military, past and present. 10 a.m. Free. For more information, call 804-786-2060 or visit vawarmemorial.org.
Memorial Day Program at the Carillon
The ceremony will feature the Franklin Military Academy color guard, music, speakers and the ringing of the Carillon bells. Located in Byrd Park. 4 p.m. Free.
Memorial Day at Maymont
Maymont’s indoor exhibits including Maymont House Museum and the Nature Center will be open from noon to 5 p.m. in celebration of Memorial Day. For more information, call 804-358-7166, ext. 310 or visit maymont.org.
Historic Cemeteries Tour
Celebrate Memorial Day with a tour of Richmond's historic cemeteries. The tour includes locations such as St John's Church, Shockoe Cemetery, the Hebrew Cemetery and Hollywood Cemetery. Learn about their layout, artwork and notable tenants. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. $20 for adults, $17 for History Center members and children 6-18 years old. Children under 6 and all veterans are free. Includes admission to the History Center. Reservations requited. For more information, call 804-649-0711, ext. 301 or visit richmondhistorycenter.com.
Lakeside Memorial Day Parade
The Lakeside community will celebrate Memorial Day with a two-mile parade, completely decked-out in red, white and blue. The parade will begin at Hatcher Memorial Church and end at Lakeside Elementary School. 2 p.m. Free.
Memorial Day 2008 Reading Room:
Jon Hatfield -- This Memorial Day, we talk to the head of Virginia's Mecca for remembering the efforts of our Commonwealth's fighting men and women.
Remembering Our Heroes -- Richmond.com has your guide to this year's Memorial Day events.
Fuzzy Memorial -- This Memorial Day, say a silent prayer for our troops. Then make really bad decisions.
The War Hits Home -- For those waiting back home as loved ones are away at war, Memorial Day can bring a plethora of emotions.
Less Traffic This Weekend? -- Thanks to higher gas prices, AAA Mid-Atlantic projects fewer travelers this holiday weekend.