A Guide to Memorial Day Weekend 2013 Events

Memorial Day Weekend 2013 runs from May 25-27 and is the unofficial first weekend of summer. County schools and county government offices are closed to mark this holiday. While swimming pools typically open up this weekend, there are a number of other local activities that may interest you and your family.

Westminster

The 146th Memorial Day Parade will take place in downtown Westminster on Monday, May 27 at 10 a.m. The Parade starts on Pennsylvania Avenue and ends on Church Street at the Westminster Cemetery. A memorial service will begin at 11 a.m. in the cemetery. 

Rockville

Hometown Holidays - This year marks the 25th anniversary of this popular weekend-long event which features music, food and family fun, culminating with a ceremony and parade on Monday. This year, a diverse slate of bands are scheduled - from Baltimore’s Kelly Bell band and local favorites The Nighthawks to Jah Works and a Tom Petty tribute band.

Annapolis

The waterfront city’s annual Memorial Day Parade kicks off at 10 a.m. on Monday at Amos Garret Boulevard. Dozens of groups are expected to march in this popular event. The day will also feature a special ceremony 12-12:30 p.m.

Washington, D.C.

National Memorial Day Concert - Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna will serve as hosts for the annual event which takes place on the West Lawn on the U.S. Capitol building. Dramatic readings, documentaries and  a diverse array of musical acts will help the nation honor the military.

National Memorial Day Parade - Sponsored by the World War II Veteran’s Committee, the 2013 parade will begin at the corner of Constitution Avenue and 7th Street and will travel 10 blocks down Constitution Avenue, ultimately ending at 17th street. Look for Pat Sajak, Gary Sinise, Miss America and other celebrities honoring our nation.

Rolling Thunder - Witness thousands of participants in this 25th annual motorcycle rally that calls for the U.S. Government to recognize and protect Prisoners of War and those Missing in Action. The event spans the entire weekend, beginning with a candlelight vigil Friday evening and a full program on Sunday, located between the Reflecting Pool and the Korean War Memorial.

Vienna, VA

Enjoy Wolftrap’s “Summer Blast Off! The President’s Own event featuring a performance by the United States Marine Band and fireworks on Sunday. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. and admission is free. It is recommended that you arrive early as the event quickly fills up and the park closes once capacity is reached.