Friday

05-23-2025 Vol 1969

Memorial Day Events Celebrate Service and Start of Summer in Atlanta

As Memorial Day approaches, Atlanta gears up for a weekend filled with activities that both honor the brave members of the armed forces who lost their lives in service and mark the unofficial start of summer.

The Veterans Resource Center will kick off the weekend with an Open House on Thursday, May 22, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visitors are invited to tour the facility, view the Walk of Honor display, and gain insight into Georgia Tech’s military history.

Meanwhile, fans of anime, video games, and comics will converge at the Georgia World Congress Center for MomoCon, running from May 22 to May 25. Originally named Techwood Con, this event has become a staple of Atlanta’s entertainment scene, drawing over 50,000 visitors last year. The four-day convention will offer panels, meet-and-greets, and interactive workshops in the exhibition hall, promising something for everyone.

Sports enthusiasts can enjoy watching the Atlanta Braves as they host the San Diego Padres at Truist Park from May 23 to May 25. In a special tribute, Friday’s game will include a pregame presentation honoring all military branches along with Medal of Honor recipients, followed by a spectacular display of postgame fireworks.

Cultural events will take center stage with the 48th annual Atlanta Jazz Festival at Piedmont Park from May 24 to May 26. This massive free festival will feature fifteen artists celebrating the art of jazz, highlighting Atlanta’s rich musical culture. The event is hosted by the Atlanta mayor’s office and attracts jazz lovers from all around.

For those looking for something more whimsical, the Georgia Renaissance Festival will be held from May 24 to May 26 in Fairburn, Georgia, on a sprawling 32-acre site. Attendees can expect thrilling jousting tournaments, live music, and an array of traditional fair foods and drinks. As a gesture of appreciation, all active and retired military personnel can enjoy free admission on Memorial Day with ID, while tickets for accompanying family members will be available at a discount.

History enthusiasts should not miss the Oakland Cemetery Veterans Tour on Sunday, May 25, from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. This guided tour recounts the stories of veterans from various conflicts, including the Mexican-American War and the Korean War, and illustrates how their contributions help narrate the broader history of the United States.

Families can also delight in a theatrical experience with Dr. Seuss’s ‘The Cat in the Hat’ at the Center for Puppetry Arts, running through Sunday, May 25. The show brings the beloved literary classic to life and is coupled with admission to the Worlds of Puppetry Museum and a hands-on Create-A-Puppet™ workshop for guests to create their own puppet friend from the story.

In keeping with the spirit of remembrance, the Alpharetta Symphony will present ‘An Ode to America,’ celebrating Memorial Day with a patriotic musical performance. Attendees are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs, and picnics to enjoy this free event, commemorating the holiday in style.

As these events converge, Atlanta welcomes residents and visitors alike to honor the fallen and celebrate the beginning of summer over a memorable Memorial Day weekend.

image source from:https://news.gatech.edu/news/2025/05/20/memorial-day-events-around-atlanta

Charlotte Hayes