Home Sweet Holiday

Ideas for Memorial Day in the City

In theory, heading to the shore sounds like a great way to kick off summer, but in reality, it's a total pain.

There's traffic (lots and lots and lots of traffic) and parking on the A.C. Expressway after a long weekend of boozing isn't fun. There's also the crowds you'll have to deal with on every beach, in every restaurant and every club from Atlantic City to North Wildwood, from Long Beach Island to Seaside Heights. And, most importantly, is your body or your wallet really prepared for all that a long weekend down the shore entails?

Alright, now that we've have talked you out of traveling, here's what's going down right here in your own backyard.

Literally, in your own backyard, is where you can throw a killer barbeque for all your friends that decided to stick out Memorial Day at home. Grab some burgers, dogs, chips, dip, etc. from a bulk store like BJ's or Costco. Have friends pitch in and bring a side dish or maybe some alcohol and you've got a party.

Grab a Philadelphia Pass this weekend and explore the city. Prices range from $55 to $69 for a two days, but the possibilities with the pass are endless. You'll have free entry to over 30 attractions like the National Constitution Center, The Academy of Natural Sciences, Battleship New Jersey, the Zoo, OVC, the Linc and you'll have line-skipping privileges. You'll also get discounts at shops and restaurants all over the city.

Learn a little Philly history at Laurel Hill's Bravest Souls Memorial Day Parade. "Decoration Day" of the Grand Army Meade Post #1 will be recreated at the very site of the first Memorial Day observance in Philadelphia in 1868. Watch as the "troops" gather 'round the grave of the hero of the Battle of Gettysburg, General Meade, and perform the traditional service honoring fallen vets. The free reenactment begins at noon on Sunday, May 30.

No better way to celebrate than a little Sunday Funday. Head to Mad River in Manayunk for an all day, all night party on the deck featuring $2 you-call-its, "Miami Vice" and frozen margaritas. Hot dogs are just $1.

And finally, what's a long weekend without a little horse show? Beginning on Thursday, May 27, the oldest (and largest) horse competition in the U.S. invades Devon, Pa. Whether you go for the Horse Show or for the Country Fair, you'll be entertained. The Devon Horse Show runs until Sunday, June 6. For ticket information call 610-668-2554.
 

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