If you’ve been a reader for awhile, or if you know me in real life, you probably know I’m a veteran. 11 years in the Coast Guard, to be exact. As such, taking time to remember those that gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country on Memorial Day means a lot to me.
I fully recognize, though, that this weekend means an extra day off – and some much-needed downtime – for a lot of folks. So if you’re looking for something fun to do this Memorial Day weekend in Charlotte, here are a few ideas:
Looking for free fun? The sprayground water parks at Nevin Park, Cordelia Park, Latta Park, and West Charlotte Recreation Center Park all open on Memorial Day! (Unfortunately, the spray park at Veteran’s Park is closed due to construction.) As part of Charlotte Mecklenburg Park and Recreation Department, these parks have no admission fees. Hours are 10am to 8pm, so head out and enjoy!
If doing good while having fun sounds like something up your alley, head to HousingFest! This concert is spearheaded by the Urban Ministry Center and brings together national recording artists, music fans, and community leaders to end chronic homelessness in Charlotte. The phenomenal lineup will take the stage starting at 4pm on Saturday at the Fillmore at the NC Music Factory.
Anyone who’s been around Charlotte for any length of time knows the week of Memorial Day means NASCAR comes to the Queen City. Races, practices and tours have been going on since last weekend and will continue through Sunday. Check out this schedule of activities from the speedway to see what you’d like to attend.
Along with Race Week comes Speed Street. This festival takes over and transforms many of uptown Charlotte’s streets, and it offers appearances by NASCAR drivers, live performances by great bands and a lot of great food options. The event runs from May 26th through 28th. Admission is free. For a schedule of driver appearances and band performances, check out 600Festival.com.
NASCAR not your thing? No worries. The USNWC has a ton of options for you this Memorial Day weekend! Their annual festival kicks off on May 27th with race packet pick-up and a screening of Ride the Divide. On Saturday, you can start your day with The Dry Tri and finish your day with the Whitewater River Jam. Sunday is filled with fun from 9am to the 9:30pm fireworks show.
During Carowinds’ Military Days, free park admission is offered to any active, inactive or retired United States Service men and women with a valid military ID on May 29th and 30th.. All that’s needed is a valid US Military ID…and the big-time want to have a seriously good time!
Image: FreeDigitalPhotos.net
