Memorial day is a federal holiday to remember those who have died while serving in the United State’s armed forces. This May holiday is a great time to remember the brave, the bold, and the fearless who have served our country. Without them, we wouldn’t have such luxuries as moseying around a beach, sparkin’ up the grill, or dipping our toes in the lake.
Memorial Day is a special holiday, but I also consider it the unofficial start of summer! Which means sun, sand, water (and hopefully all three at the same time). Going out of town, staying in town? Here are some things to do at home, in Asheville, and in Wilmington!
Turn your backyard into your own sprinkler-haven paradise. Set up some kiddie pools and sprinklers, the kids and their friends will absolutely love it!
Maybe you're a newbie, maybe you're a seasoned professional, or maybe you're just here for some brews and some food...the Mountain Sports Festival (22nd.-24th.) is a fun event that gets you out of the norm and into some action!
Just five minutes from downtown, in the neighborhood of Kenilworth, is the Open Artists Studio Festival. From the 23rd-24th jewelers, painters, glass workers, potters, photographers, fabric workers etc...will open up studio and shop just for you!
There is also the Lake Lure Arts and Crafts Festival from the 23rd-25th. Admission is free. On the beach of Lake Lure tons of artists will be displaying and selling their artwork. It's a great cultural getaway just outside of Asheville.
Or check out the White Squirrel Festival in downtown Brevard. From the 23rd-24th there will be a parade, live music, food, and of course the white squirrels themselves (some in costume).
Or head to Hendersonville for the Garden Jubilee Festival. From the 23rd-24th, passionate and novice gardeners alike are invited to find that perfect plant, unique garden and lawn accessories, or even some art. The festival brings in almost $1M dollars a year to the town!
Last but not least, the 22nd-30th is Asheville beer week. Breweries will be opening up doors to visitors and giving out free tastings. The week long festival ends with a bang on the 30th with the Beer City Festival.
The Orange Street Arts Festival brings in tons of artists from the southeastern region of America. Browse and shop paintings, jewelry, pottery, handmade accesories, photography etc. There will be a beer and wine tent, live music, and special programs at The Children's Museum. The beautiful setting in downtown Wilmington lends both a bohemian and relaxed vibe perfect for a hot (somewhat summer) day!
Or take in some history! Go visit and tour the decorated WWII battleship USS North Carolina. She received 15 battle stars during her time of service. What a better way to pay tribute to our fallen heroes.
Hopefully for those staying in town, or venturing to either Asheville or Wilmington, this list has helped you narrow down some options for adventure. I’ll be back in a few days covering the triad, the triangle, Charlotte, OBX, and the High Country.
Till then, what are some of your favorite Memorial Day events?
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