Beyond the sales and three-day weekend, we sometimes forget that Memorial Day is a day of tribute to those military service members who have made the ultimate sacrifice during their military service. To honor the fallen this Memorial Day, here are our top 10 activities to make a meaningful Memorial Day.

1Attend the Annual Fredericksburg National Cemetery Illumination. This touching and beautiful event is a Fredericksburg tradition. Luminaria are lit by local scouts at the Fredericksburg Local Cemetery on at Sunken and Lafayette. Date May 25th - Weather permitting.

 

2Friends of Wilderness Battlefield Events host a special Memorial Day event at Ellwood Manor with colors presentation and taps on May 25th.

 

3Rappahannock Pops Orchestra will perform a Memorial Day Concert at Mary Washington Hospital May 27th from 6pm to 8pm.

 

4Visit the National Museum of the Marine Corps – Learn about the Marine Corps as you explore the children’s exhibit. The museum also has an outdoor playground.

5Honor a veteran family member through the capture of his or her military experience and have it print bound or create a digital audio recording.

 

6Visit the World War II Memorial at Hurkamp Park in downtown Fredericksburg.

 

7March with the Spirit of 45 in downtown D.C. Recommended for those families who can proceed along the parade route. More details can be found on Eventbrite.

 

8Buy and fly an American-made flag from Bald Eagle Industries. Bald Eagle has been in business since 1979 and is located on Route 3.

 

9Consider donating or volunteering with the Central Rappahannock Heritage Center, an organization dedicated to the preservation of the historical items relating to the City of Fredericksburg and surrounding areas.

 

10Head out to the Sumerduck Dragway for the Memorial Day Car, Truck, and Bike Show. This annual event is in its 14th year and held by the Goldvein Volunteer Fire Department.

 

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