Make it a memorable Memorial Day

Many think of Memorial Day weekend as the unofficial start of summer, but it’s also meant to be a time to honor those who have died in U.S. military service. Luckily, if you’re planning a trip, there are plenty of events and activities where you can pay respects on your way to a fun weekend.

In Fredericksburg, activities include living-history programs at the National Museum of the Pacific War, a USO-Style dance at the Hangar Hotel Pacific Showroom on Saturday, and an observance at 10 a.m. Monday back at the war museum. While you’re in town, you also can enjoy Cajun-inspired food and music at the Fredericksburg Crawfish Festival in the Marktplatz.

San Angelo’s Fort Concho National Historic Landmark hosts a 9 a.m. program honoring servicemembers’ sacrifices and is open from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. for the rest of the day. It’s a great chance to explore a historic army fort established in 1867, with 23 original and restored structures that still survive today to illustrate life on the wild Texas frontier.

There are plenty of other events to choose from this Memorial Day weekend, including Carnival Houston, a sand sculpture exhibition on South Padre Island, and huge Memorial Day festivals with fireworks in The Woodlands and Granbury–check out our list below for more ideas!

BANDERA: Bandera Pro Rodeo, May 22-24

CORPUS CHRISTI: Shore Bird Identification Short Course, May 22-23

DENISON: Memorial Day Parade, May 25

ENNIS: National Polka Festival, May 22-24

FORT WORTH: Crowne Plaza Invitational, May 21-24

GRANBURY: Memorial Day Celebration, May 23-25

GRAPELAND: Memorial Day Weekend Gospel Bluegrass Festival, May 21-24

HONDO: Sip ‘n’ Stroll, May 23

HOUSTON: Carnival Houston, May 21-24

IRVING: Byron Nelson Championship, May 21-24

KERRVILLE: Texas Masters of Fine Art and Craft, May 22-24

KERRVILLE: Masters of Fine Art and Craft at Inn of the Hills, May 22-24