The U.S. celebrates the last Monday of May as Memorial Day. Unfortunately, many just see this as an extended weekend to make their holiday plans, losing out on its meaning.
Memorial Day is a day to commemorate the people who died while serving in the U.S. Military. Whether you have served in the military or not, you need to understand the importance of this day and do your part to honor and support people who gave their lives for the country.
Memorial Day Is More Than a Day Off From Work
Most Americans see the Memorial Day weekend as their first long weekend of summer. But if you or any of your loved ones were in the military, you understand the meaning behind the holiday.
The traditions of Memorial Day have evolved over the years. While the formal ritual of placing a wreath on the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and decorating the graves at the National Cemetery with small American Flags is still observed, many others have been introduced later on.
There are speeches and parades hosted in different cities and towns to celebrate this day. All Americans are encouraged to observe a minute of silence at 3 p.m. local time. Legislation was passed by the U.S. Congress in 2000 to make this moment the National Moment of Remembrance.
One of the Best Places to Observe Memorial Day
The first time Memorial Day was celebrated was on May 30, 1868, in Arlington, VA, at the National Cemetery. This makes it one of the best and certainly most historical places to observe this day.
Arlington is where you will experience the true spirit of Memorial Day. The experience is powerful and would be a great way to commemorate the men and women who had fallen in the war.
It would be best to visit Arlington National Cemetery on the Thursday before Memorial Day, which is May 25, 2020. On this day, more than 280,000 gravesites will be decorated with small American flags as a mark of honor.
The Memorial Day Observation Ceremony is scheduled on May 25, 2020, at Arlington. This is when you can observe the Full Honors Wreath-Laying Ceremony by the Presidential Armed Forces. The event will be attended by the President of the United States and is open for Public.
A Good Place to Stay
This year’s Memorial Day falls on May 25, 2020, which, of course, is a Monday. It can be your chance to spend a long weekend in Arlington, VA. Thankfully Arlington has many options that are comfortable to stay and light on your pocket. Here are a few for you to check out:
- Hyatt Place Arlington/Courthouse Plaza – A 7-minute drive to Arlington National Cemetery, this unfussy pet-friendly hotel offers comfortable suites and warmly furnished rooms with flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, mini-fridges, and free Wi-Fi. Amenities include a casual dining area, a relaxed bar, and a 24-hour gym.
- Hilton Garden Inn Arlington/Courthouse Plaza – Situated within 3 miles from the Arlington National Cemetery, Hilton Garden Inn provides suites and comfortable rooms with custom-designed beds. Free Wi-Fi, fitness center, meeting rooms, a business center, an American restaurant, and a 24/7 pantry market are the amenities available.
If you are taking your family and your pet along, make sure you look for a pet friendly hotel in Arlington, VA.
Good Places for Families to Eat In Arlington
It would be a great idea to bring your family to Arlington. Not only can you all observe Memorial Day, but you can also spend some quality time together. Many family-friendly dining options in Arlington will get you a thumbs-up from your kids as well as your parents. Here are a few places for you to visit:
- Bayou Bakery, Coffee Bar & Eatery – All-beef hot dogs, salads and sammies, and weekend brunch with booze are the hot favorites of this place. Ideal for breakfast or lunch, this place offers piles of powdered sugar beignets and plenty of expresso drinks for people of all ages.
- Pupatella – If you are up to trying some Neapolitan-style Pizza, pay a visit to Pupatella on Wilson Blvd. Cooked in wood-fired oven, these pizzas are chewy and flavorful.
- Big Buns Damn Good Burgers – If you want to try some delicious gourmet burgers, check out Big Buns Damn Good Burgers on Wilson Blvd. They also have shakes and sides like sweet potato fries to make your meals complete.
Make your Weekend Memorable
Memorial Day is best observed in Arlington, VA. To make this the best weekend outing for your family, make sure you chart out a plan with the best of the hotels and restaurants.
*Disclaimer: The COVID-19 outbreak may affect Memorial Day activities. Please check on the event’s website for further details.