Memorial Day is just a few weeks away and before we let you in on Memorial Day fun available here in South Florida, it’s important to level set and take a moment to remember what Memorial Day is all about.
The Origins and Meaning of Memorial Day
Memorial Day honors the brave men and women who have sacrificed their lives defending our country. It is a day to reflect on their sacrifice and to honor their memories.
The first Memorial Day, then known as Decoration Day, was declared by General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic on May 5, 1868. The day was designated as a time to decorate the graves of the fallen with flowers and to hold ceremonies in their honor.
Since then, Memorial Day has become a national holiday, honoring all Americans who died while serving in the military. In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a federal holiday to be celebrated on the last Monday in May.
But Memorial Day is also a time to celebrate the official start of summer. The weather’s getting warmer. The school year is ending. So why not start the summer off right by celebrating with your friends and family!
Celebrate Memorial Day in South Florida
You could not ask for a more perfect spot to spend your Memorial Day three-day weekend than South Florida. Sun, sea, food and parties - there’s something for everyone!
Sun day fun day
South Florida features endless opportunities for outdoor adventures no matter where you are in the area - from South Miami to West Palm Beach. You and your family can enjoy paddle boarding, fishing, jet skiing or any number of watersports. There’s never a dull moment.
If you’re looking for fun on the beach, South Florida is home to some of the best beaches in the country, including: South Beach, Hollywood Beach, Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Ft. Lauderdale Beach, Pompano Beach, Deerfield Beach, Red Reef Park in Boca Raton, Delray Beach and Peanut Island Park on Singer Island.
You can spend countless hours snorkeling, scuba diving and taking in the beauty only found under the sea. And after your day of fun in the sun is over, relax with some beachfront dining and shopping.
Food for thought
Burgers, hot dogs, ice cream and all your favorite summertime treats are here in South Florida.
Jaxson’s Ice Cream Parlour & Restaurant has been a regular fixture in Dania Beach since 1956 and is well known for their extra-long hot dogs, half-pound burgers, and huge sundaes, like their famous The Original Kitchen Sink®.
B Square Burgers & Booze on Las Olas and BRGR Stop (with two locations: Ft. Lauderdale & Coconut Creek) serve incredible burgers and creamy milkshakes.
Batch Southern Kitchen & Tap in West Palm Beach features scratch-cooked, locally sourced southern fare and garden-to-glass cocktails.
The Baked Bear has locations all over South Florida; visit them on Miami Beach for custom ice creams sandwiches you can’t find anywhere else. You choose the cookie, the ice cream, the toppings and then the whole things is hot pressed into a smooshed mess of deliciousness.
The Main Events
South Florida is home to many incredible Memorial Day events but here are a few you don’t want to miss!
Great American Beach Party
Where: Las Olas Oceanside Park - 3000 E. Las Olas Boulevard, Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33316
When: Saturday, May 25th 11:00am to 6:30pm
Cost: Free
Memorial Day Picnic & BBQ at Lake Ida Park
Where: Lake Ida Park - 1455 Lake Ida Rd, Delray Beach, FL 33444
When: Monday, May 27th 10am to 3pm
Cost: $5
Memorial Day Parade & Ceremony 2024
Where: McNab Park to Pompano Beach Cemetery
When: Monday, May 27th 10am
Cost: Free
Sizzle Miami: LGBTQ+ events in Greater Miami & Miami Beach
Where: Hilton Miami Downtown is the main host hotel (tons of events around town)
When: May 24-27
Cost: $30-$345
Have a fun and safe holiday weekend, from your friends at VW South Florida!