Memorial Day Guide

Did you really think that Richmond would have a shortage of things to do this Memorial Day weekend? Pshaw! No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to take part in to get the most out of the holiday weekend.

May 27, 2011; 9:35 AM • by RVANews staff

Did you really think that Richmond would have a shortage of things to do this Memorial Day weekend? Pshaw! No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find something to take part in to get the most out of the holiday weekend.

1. Virginia War Memorial – Memorial Day Ceremony

The Virginia War Memorial will host its Memorial Day ceremony, honoring all veterans, co-hosted by the American Legion, 11th District. Buglers, a guest speaker, flags, rifle volley and wreath laying will take place.

Mon. May 30, 10am to 11am
Virginia War Memorial – 621 South Belvidere Street
Free

2. Go to the Talkies

Hangover 2 and Kung Fu Panda 2 have just opened. Other new flicks include The Tree of Life (although not yet available in Richmond), The Abduction of Zack Butterfield and Tied to a Chair. You can also see Bridesmaids, starring Kristen Wig, which we gave a much-coveted 5-star review!

Times vary
Ticket prices will vary, too

3. Memorial Day Concert & Program at Carillon

We’ve all seen the Carillon while strolling through Byrd Park. But did you know that baby sings? All purdy-like, too. On Memorial Day the Carillon will hold a free concert, as well as a wreath service to honor those who have served Virginia and the nation. Official Richmond City Carillonneur (didn’t know that was a word, did you?) Larry Robinson, who is celebrating his 51st year playing the Carillon, will regale us with a performance.

4pm
Carillon Grounds at Byrd Park
Free

4. Hollywood Cemetery Walking Tour

We all know that Hollywood Cemetery is cool place to walk around, and now that the weather has finally warmed up it’ll be even more striking to stroll through this fascinating terrain. To commemorate Memorial Day, local historian Jim DuPriest will guide you through the cemetery, discussing the origins of Memorial Day, the Confederate soldier’s section, the dead from Gettysburg, Lee’s Lieutenants, and the huge stone pyramid (yeah, what is that thing?)

Sun., May 29 2:00pm to 4:00pm
Hollywood Cemetery, 412 S. Cherry St.
$10

5. Bar Crawl

Lucky Buddha and Cha Chas Cantina will host their 4th annual bar crawl. C’mon, how often do you get to go out for drinks on a Sunday night (and not show up late to work the next morning)? Enjoy your Monday off by sauntering to and fro between two of Shockoe’s bar scenes the night before. Bring your military ID and get some great deals, too.

Sun, May 29 8:00pm
Lucky Buddha and Cha Chas Cantina, 1400 block of E. Cary Street
Pay as you eat and drink

6. Nights of Fire – Kings Dominion

Oh, yeah. I forgot that really cool amusement park was only twenty minutes away. After you get your fill of roller coasters and cotton candy (preferably not in simultaneity) enjoy one of the area’s largest firework displays. Kings Dominion will also play music to accompany the spectacle throughout the park. Bring your military ID or discharge papers to get into the park for free either day.