Dear 1400 State Parkway Residents,
Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United Statesfor remembering the people who died while serving in the country's armed forces. The holiday, whichis currently observed every year on the last Monday of May, originated as Decoration Day after the American Civil War in 1868, when the Grand Army of the Republic, an
organization of Union veterans founded in Decatur,
Illinois, established it as a time for the nation to decorate the
graves of the Union war dead with flowers. By the 20th century, competing Unionand Confederate holiday traditions, celebrated on
different days, had merged, and Memorial Day eventually extended to honor all
Americans who died while in the military service. (Wikipedia)
Can’t sneak away this Memorial Day Weekend?
Consider yourself lucky—this weekend is a fantastic one to spend in Chicago. TimeOut
Chicago has prepared a list of some of the things happening this weekend in
Chicago:
Hit thebeach!
Pack a towel, some sunnies, a beach read and a
picnic and head to the beach this weekend. Chicago beaches are officially open
this weekend—summer has arrived! (Various beaches on theLakefront, Fri–Mon during daytime hours. Free, see our guidefor full details)
Travel toJurassic World
JurassicWorld: The Exhibition opens up at the Field Museum this Friday, May 26.
Swing by to see the huge, animatronic dinosaurs, which are said to be the most
realistic depiction of the lizard kings to date. (The Field Museum, 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Fri–Mon 9am–5pm. Museumadmission + $10–$15)
Go to a giantparade downtown
Chicago’s Memorial Day Parade doesn’t have the
debauchery of the St. Patrick’s Day Parade—and yes, that’s a good thing. See a
wreath laid at the eternal flame at Daley Plaza, then watch the cadets march
through the Loop. (Daley Plaza, Washington andDearborn Sts, Sat 11am. Free)
See a comedylegend in the flesh
The eternally hilarious Mel Brooks returns to the
Chicago Theatre this weekend. Brooks will be telling stories about the making
of his masterpiece, Young Frankenstein, socome ready to hear some iconic Hollywood tales. (Chicago Theatre, 175 N State St, Sat 3pm. $79–$183)
Drink upfresh craft beer
North Center neighbors Dovetail and Begyle
breweries are throwing a neighborhood block party this weekend. The fest
features live music all day, and food trucks including Döner Men, Happy
Lobster, Bruges Brothers, and more. Oh, and a ton of delicious beer. (Dovetail Brewery, 1800 W Belle Plaine Ave, Sat,Sun noon–10pm. Free)
Party at theBean
Chicago House Party is taking over Millennium Park
for a full day dedicated to electronic dance. Featured DJs and artists include
Maurice Joshua, DJ Pierre and footwork originator RP Boo. (Millennium Park, 55 N Michigan Ave, Sat 2pm–9pm.Free)
Dig forvintage gold
Hunt for furniture, housewares, jewelry and more at
the popular Randolph Street Market Festival. As the first fair of the summer,
this weekend’s event will feature a beer garden, bands and DJs all day long, a
petting zoo for kids and more. (Beaux Arts Plumbers UnionHall Building, 1340 W Washington Blvd, Sat, Sun 10am–5pm. $8, at the door $10)
Enjoy LakeShore Drive minus the cars
Pedal all the way down Lake Shore Drive on Sunday
morning at the annual favorite, Bike The Drive. The route stretches from Bryn
Mawr down to the Museum of Science and Industry, totaling 30 miles, but you can
bike as much or as little as you like. (Lake Shore Drive, Sun,5:30–10:30am. $50)
