Memorial Day was first observed as a holiday in 1868 to remember those who have given their lives while serving in the U.S. military. Today, the holiday allows people across the country to enjoy a long weekend. From memorial services and volunteer opportunities to live music and pool parties, here are a few ways you can enjoy this Memorial Day weekend (Saturday, May 25 to Monday, May 27) in the Valley.
Spend time at a military veteran’s memorial.
Arizona is home to many memorials dedicated to veterans, including Gilbert’s 9/11 Memorial, Anthem Veterans Memorial, the Pat Tillman statues in Glendale and Tempe and the USS Arizona Memorial Gardens at Salt River.
Take a moment to honor those who lost their lives.
Organizations across the Valley host a variety of ceremonies to commemorate fallen veterans on Memorial Day. The Home of the Brave Memorial Day Program and Parade hosted by Honoring America’s Veterans (HAV) at VA National Memorial Cemetery of Arizona in Cave Creek is still looking for volunteers to help with the event on May 27.
Use your Monday off to enjoy the outdoors.
A three-day weekend is a great opportunity to break out of your routine and spend some time outside. Events like the Memorial Day 5K in Phoenix and Sunset Yoga in Scottsdale are a few outdoor events happening over the holiday weekend.
Take advantage of the long weekend at these music festivals and parties.
Many employers provide the day off for Memorial Day. Dance the day away at the Diablo Rooftop Memorial Day Celebration in Phoenix, enjoy performances by DJ Snake and DJ Pauly D at Maya DayClub in Scottsdale or soak in the vibes at Skysill Rooftop Lounge Memorial Day Celebration in Tempe.
Savor a discounted staycation at a local hotel or resort.
Take advantage of deals on rooms, spa services and other amenities at luxury hotels and resorts such as Arizona Grand Resort & Spa, W Scottsdale, Arizona Biltmore and Royal Palms Resort & Spa all weekend.
Discover Memorial Day dining deals.
Whether or not you take the full staycation route, you can still enjoy deals around the metro Phoenix area. Veterans receive discounts at Valley dining destinations ranging from upscale restaurants like STK Steakhouse to craft breweries such as Pedal Haus.
