Best Memorial Day Events For The Family In Minnesota
Memorial Day is a wonderful time to enjoy the new-found warm Minnesota sunshine, treasure time with the family and honor fallen United States service members. Events of observance and appreciation will be held throughout the state on Monday, May 30th. Whether you are looking for a day of military history, celebration or tranquil peace outdoors, we've got ideas for you and your family. Read on for some of the best Memorial Day events in our state this year.
Memorial Day Powwow
Mille Lacs Indian Museum and Trading Post
43411 Oodena Dr.
Onamia, MN 56359
320-532-3632
www.mnhs.org
Date: May 30, 2016 at 12 p.m.
Bring the family to experience the story of the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe during the Indian Museum's seasonal opening weekend. Learn about their history and contemporary life through exhibits, interactive games and activities, or purchase American Indian arts and crafts at the Trading Post. A modern-day powwow gathers museum attendees with community members to honor veterans from noon to 5 p.m. on Memorial Day. The powwow is free with museum admission of $10 for adults and $6 for kids ages 5-17.
Military History Living Timeline
Historic Fort Snelling
200 Tower Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55111
612-726-1171
www.mnhs.org
Date: May 30, 2016 at 10 a.m.
Honor American veterans at Minnesota's oldest military post with an interactive timeline highlighting military life. You'll get a taste of various eras of military history with reenactors decked out in period costume. The American colonial era to the 20th century will be featured in uniform and weapons displays, as well as in demonstration. While at the fort, check out the latest exhibit on the archaeology of military medicine. Veterans receive free admission on Memorial Day.
Memorial Day Art & Music Celebration
Lakewood Cemetery
3600 Hennepin Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55408
612-822-2171
www.lakewoodcemetery.com
Date: May 30, 2016 at 10:30 a.m.
Lakewood Cemetery is one of Minnesota's most beautiful and historic cemeteries. To remember the lives of military and other loved ones, Lakewood celebrates with art and music during Memorial Day. A traditional ceremony at 10:30 a.m. features the music of the Minneapolis Police Band, a gospel quartet and the playing of Taps, along with an honor guard and dove release. From noon to 3 p.m., tours by trolley, horse-and-carriage or foot cover the well-known monuments and beautiful gardens within the cemetery. Art exhibits, refreshments and historic streetcar rides also cap off the special day.
Related:Best Toddler-Friendly Activities In Minnesota For Summer
Military Appreciation Days
Valleyfair
1 Valleyfair Drive
Shakopee, MN 55379
952-445-7600
www.valleyfair.com
Date: May 27-30, 2016
Active or veteran armed service people are shown appreciation over Memorial weekend with a free Valleyfair admission ticket. Up to six discounted tickets can also be purchased for immediate family with a valid military ID. Military families can enjoy a well-deserved thrill ride on the 360-degree coaster Steel Venom or take it easy on the carousel. There's plenty of time for fun as the park remains open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. all weekend long with the exception of an 8 p.m. close on Memorial Day itself.
1880's Memorial Day Ceremony
The Landing
2187 Highway 101 E.
Shakopee, MN 55379
763-694-7784
www.threeriversparks.org
Date: May 30, 2016 at 2 p.m.
The wild west comes alive over Memorial weekend at The Landing with informative and entertaining reenactments and impressive life-size displays. Learn cooking techniques of the day, hear tales of the open frontier, and find out the true story of famous wild west legends. Historical buildings cover the grounds and give families a great glimpse into the life in the era. To show your appreciation for fallen military, participate in the 1880's Memorial Day ceremony at 2 p.m.
Cortney Mohnk is a freelance writer covering all things Minnesota. She is also a public relations and event planning professional. Her most important job is mother to her young son and daughter, who are her partners-in-crime when checking out the family entertainment scene in the Twin Cities. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.