Memorial Day Weekend in Miami - May 25 - 28, 2018

Memorial Day is a public holiday celebrated every year on the last Monday in May in honor of the men and women who have died while serving our country.

On this day, ceremonies to honor the men and women in the U.S. Armed Forces who gave their lives to protect the nation's freedoms will be held throughout South Florida.

This year it will be on Monday May 28, 2018.

Federal government offices are closed on Memorial Day.

Memorial Day vs. Veteran's Day? Memorial Day honors those who have died while serving our country while Veteran's Day, celebrated on November 11, honors all those men and women who have served in the armed forces.

The 2018 Memorial Day weekend will bring back once again the National Salute to America's Heroes initiative, and some fantastic events are in store at this two-day extravaganza, including an exciting Air & Sea Show, live entertainment and stages at the Music Explosion, and stunning fireworks displays.

But that's not all, Memorial Day ceremonies are held throughout Dade and Broward Counties, and with Memorial Day signaling the "unofficial" start of the summer vacation season, many of our local attractions will also be paying tribute to our heroes.

• City of North Miami Beach Memorial Day Service - May 28, 2018 - 10:00 am at All Wars Memorial Park at 16500 NE 16th Ave, North Miami Beach
• City of Pembroke Pines Memorial Day Ceremony - May 28, 2018 - 9:00 am at Fletcher Park at 7900 Johnson Street 9:30 am at the Charles F. Dodge City Center Pembroke Pines lobby at 601 City Center Way, Pembroke Pines
• Davie Memorial Day Ceremony & Parade May 28, 2018 - 10:30 am at Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 4271 Davie Road, Davie, FL 33314
• City of Sunrise Memorial Day Ceremony - May 28, 2018 9:00 am at the Sunrise Civic Center Amphitheater at 10610 West Oakland Park Boulevard

This Year's Memorial Day Weekend Highlights

• Miami Beach Air & Sea Show, Music Explosion and Fireworks Extravaganza - May 26 - 27, 2018
• Junkanoo Parade on Ocean Drive - May 27, 2018
• City of Ft. Lauderdale Memorial Day Great American Beach Party - May 26, 2018
• Best of the Best Memorial Day Concert at Bayfront Park - May 27, 2018
• PAMM Memorial Day BBQ - May 28, 2018
• Flamingo Gardens Memorial Day KidzFest - May 26 - 28, 2018
• Urban Beach Week 2018 - May 25 - 28, 2018
• Memorial Day Weekend Concerts and Sports
  • George Lopez - Saturday May 26, 2018 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino
  • Miami Marlins meet the Washington Nationals at Marlins Park - May 26 - 27, 2018
• More Things to Do on Memorial Day Weekend

Goes without saying, accomodations will be running at full capacity, the earlier you firm up your plans the better. Here are some top hotel choices for enjoying the best of this Memorial Day Weekend events.

Memorial Day Weekend: Miami Beach Air & Sea Show, Music Explosion and Fireworks Extravaganza

There is no better time to pay tribute to our military, first responders and those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country than Memorial Day Weekend.

In this spirit, a fantastic event as part of the National Salute to America's Heroes initiative will take place on our sandy shores with all five branches of the military represented: The Army, the Navy, the Air Force, the Marines and the Coast Guard as well as our police, firefighters and first responder agencies.

This is the highlight event of the weekend and one you should not miss right on the sands of Miami Beach...

When? Saturday and Sunday May 26 - 27, 2018
Where? Along the shores of Miami Beach, main event site and best viewing for the Air and Sea Show is between 11th and 15th Street.
Public viewing areas are from 1st to 10th streets and 15th to 23rd Streets. See event site map here.
There will be many designated Park and Ride locations in and around the City of Miami where you can leave your car and ride a free shuttle to the event. Do not try to park in Miami Beach this weekend!
How Much? FREE from the public viewing areas on the beach on the North and South ends of the main event site. Tickets available for hospitality chalets, family seating area, VIP clubs and hotels packages, see below.

The Air & Sea Show:

Jets will be flying overhead as powerboats zip along the shore. This two-day spectacular event will feature civilian aerobatic acts, offshore powerboat racing demonstrations, extreme water sports and more, all on the beautiful shores of Miami Beach.

• Sea Events including Waterski, wakeboard, jetski, stunt kite, hang gliders, hover boards and jet surf board demonstrations, offshore powerboat racing...
• U.S. Marine Corps Beach Invasion
• Air Events including fly byes, precision exercises and demos including rescue demos, special ops, the U.S. Navy Leap Frogs Parachute Team, the Canadian Forces Snowbirds Squadron and many, many, MANY more.

When? Sea Events: 9:30 am - 11:30 am
Air Events: 11:30 am - 3:30 pm
Where? Along the beach, best viewing for the Air and Sea Show is ON THE BEACH between 11th and 14th Street. There is a FREE public viewing area set up here.
The Air Show landing zone is between 10th and 11th Streets.
Watching from a boat: Allowed but observe the safety zone where No vessel or person will be permitted to enter without obtaining permission from the Captain of the Port Miami or a designated representative. The zone is to be enforced from 8:30 a.m. on Friday through 5:00 p.m. on Sunday and consists of the 0.5 mile stretch of waters of the Atlantic Ocean from Collins Park to South Pointe.

Display Village:

This is where you can see our military technology up close and personal along with a variety of interactive displays, high tech demonstrations, plus merchandise and food vendors. There will be meet-and-greets with servicemen and women and many family-fun activities including kids yoga, themed arts and crafts, face painting, relay races, a dance-a-thon, themed bingo, team scavenger hunts and a letter writing station to servicemen and women.

This year's Action Zone will feature a Stihl Timberworks Lumberjack Show, a Firefighters Combat Challenge and a Monster Motocross Demonstration.

When? 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Where? Along Ocean Drive Between 10th and 14th Streets
K.I.D.S. Fun Zone will be located between 12th and 13th Streets.
How Much? FREE

The Music Explosion:

This year's program features a fantastic line up with musical artists Kent Jones, MAX, Shaggy and hosted by DJ Irie. In addition, there will be performances by the U.S. Air Force "Max Impact" band, and the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard Drill Team. To cap off the first day of celebrations, the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team will descend and kick off the fireworks extravaganza on Saturday.

When? Saturday May 26, 2018 6:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Where? On the Beach on the Altec Lansing Stage. Stage is set up at the southern end of the event site east of the dunes between 10th and 11th Streets.
How Much? FREE

The Fireworks:

From the deck of a U.S. Army LSV Landing Craft, a few hundred yards offshore, a spectacular fireworks show will be launched over Miami Beach following the Music Explosion on Saturday May 26, 2018.

Latest news and updates on the Fireworks Extravaganza

More Info

• Official Site: http://usasalute.com
• Download the App: AppStore | Android |
• Live broadcast on NewsRadio 610 WIOD
• Livestream via the iHeartRadio App
• USA Salute FB Page
• Event site map, entrances, lavatories

Practical Tips

• Plan ahead, get there early, have an exit plan
• Ocean Drive will be closed to traffic, and a traffic loop will be in effect throughout the weekend Details to follow, check their FB page for updates.
• Bring sun protection, beach chairs, water, cameras and phones
• DO NOT bring glass and styrofoam, straws, drones, lasers, helium balloons
• Know The Rules: www.respectthescene.com
• More Free Events: City of Miami Beach - Memorial Day

Junakanoo Parade on Ocean Drive

The costumes... the dances... the music... this spirited Caribbean tradition comes to Ocean Drive to cap off the weekend of celebrations on the beach for Memorial Day.

Come join the hypnotic rhythms directly accross from the Victor Hotel on Ocean Drive, the perfect finale to a fabulous weekend of festivities.

When? Sunday, May 27, 2018 - After 6:00 pm following the Gospel Concert
Where? Ocean Drive, accross from the Victor Hotel
How Much? FREE

More Info: Memorial Day Junkanoo Parade

Where to Stay for Memorial Day? Top Hotel Choices

From the celebrations to pay tribute to our Service Men and Women including a fantastic Air and Sea Show right from the sands of South Beach, live concerts, fireworks and parades, to the Hip Hop whirlwind of Urban Beach Week, this is one busy weekend...

Where the best place to stay in Miami for Memorial Day Weekend will depend much on what your preferences are, from heavy partying to a weekend of relaxation.

Hotels on Ocean Drive will be ground zero with all of the festivities literally in your backyard and front row seats for the fantastic fireworks. But there are also many options within easy walk and further away from the mayhem. If traveling with family or would like a quieter scene, choose a place away from the melee of South Beach.

Here are some top hotel options for Memorial Day Weekend in Miami

City of Ft. Lauderdale Memorial Day Great American Beach Party

A full day of exciting activities and entertainment for the entire family, this annual event honors our military members who died to keep us free as well as our local citizens who have worked to improve the community of Fort Lauderdale.

The celebrations kick off on the beach with a sand sculpting contest and plenty of kids activities, beach games, inflatables, face painting, and more.

The live entertainment starts at noon, six bands will perform on two stages throughout the day treating crowds to a variety of rock 'n' roll, country, funk, dance favorites, and more. Featured artists will include: Swahili Band, Pitbull of Blues, Rogue Theory, Shane Duncan Band, Stall 4, and Pocket Change. And at 4:45pm, the Great American Beach Party welcomes country music icon Lee Greenwood who won CMA Song of the Year in 1985 for writing "God Bless the USA." The song, "God Bless the USA" has been voted the most recognizable patriotic song in America.

A military tribute will take place at 2:30 p.m. to honor the men and women who serve our country in the United States Armed Forces. The tribute will be highlighted by a precision free-fall parachute jump and tribute to the U.S. Armed Forces by the SOCOM Para-Commandos. In an extraordinary display of timing, accuracy, and precision maneuvering, the Para-Commandos will skydive from 12,500 feet over the Atlantic Ocean and land on targets positioned in the sand at Las Olas Boulevard and A1A.

And don't miss the Classic Car Show and art booths and vendors along A1A and Cortez Avenue.

When? Saturday May 26, 2018 - 10:00 am to 8:30 pm
Where? Along Fort Lauderdale Beach near A1A and Las Olas Boulevard
How Much? FREE

More Info: The Great American Beach Party

PAMM Memorial Day BBQ

Perez Art Museum Miami honors our heroes with a special Memorial Day BarBQue and Celebration on the terrace overlooking Biscayne Bay.

There will be live music and barbecue specials on the terrace, complimentary popcorn with museum admission, and art-making with PAMM teaching artists. Admission is free for all active duty military personnel, veterans and their families.

When? Museum opens at 10:00 am, Memorial Day celebration from 1:00 - 4:00 pm
Where? Perez Art Museum at 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami
How Much? Free entry to the terrace, BarBQ specials and beer and wine available for purchase and not included in admission. Museum gallery admission: $16 for adults, Children and Youth (7-18) $12, Seniors +62 $12. Free for PAMM members, active duty military personnel, veterans, family members.

More Info: Memorial Day BBQ at PAMM

Best of the Best Memorial Day Concert

On its 12th year, the largest reggae/caribbean music festival in North America returns to the striking landscapes of Bayfront Park and the Miami Beach skyline on Sunday May 27, 2018 with every intention of making history again!

Best of the Best 2018 will be bringing out some of Caribbean music's finest, including Mavado, Aidonia, Capleton, Masicka, Roman Virgo, Shenseea, Ding Dong... and many many more.

No outside food, beverages, or alcohol will be allowed. However, it is suggested that attendees bring blankets or folding chairs to sit on. Be advised, there is no re-entry into the concert so be sure that you don't leave anything in your vehicle that you may need during the concert.

When? Sunday, May 27, 2018 - 2:00 pm 'til midnight
Where? Bayfront Park, Downtown Miami
How Much? General Admission $52, children 12 and under FREE, VIP $152+ for a private viewing area, express entry, private air conditioned bathrooms, front stage access, and an open bar

More Info and tickets: http://bestofthebestconcert.com/

Flamingo Gardens Memorial Day KidzFest

KidzFest is a great day for kids presented by Nicklaus Children's Hospital Broward Outpatient Centers.

The annual festival features complimentary pony rides (10am to 4pm), butterfly encounter, animal presentations, kids games and activitities, arts and crafts, bounce house, music and live entertainment, plus a few surprises!

When? May 26 - 28, 2018 - 9:30 am to 4:30 pm
Where? Flamingo Gardens at 3750 South Flamingo Road, Davie, FL 33330
How Much? Adults $19.95 Children (3 - 11) $12.95 Discounts for Seniors, Armed Services, College Students. Narrated Tram Tour is included with admission.
More Info and tickets: Memorial Day KidzFest at Flamingo Gardens

Urban Beach Week

Urban Beach Week which is also known as Black Beach Week started back in the 1990's as a small urban fashion show. It was actually called Urban Fashion Week in the beginning.

Since then, the event has gradually grown to this massive outdoor party event in South Beach over Memorial Day Weekend.

This is the ultimate beach party for the Hip Hop culture that attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors. Yes, that's right, hundreds of thousands over the long weekend.

What is it? This is not an officially sponsored event by the city, instead, it's a series of events... concerts, parties, pool parties, contests, fashion shows, celebrity pool parties... all organized by various private venues throughout South Beach, many just pop up and spread out on social media.

As you can expect, streets are overflowing and plenty of alcohol is consumed. Expect street closures and re-routed traffic patterns. Needless to say, this is NOT a family event. If you are heading over please act responsibly and observe the special regulations in effect as there will be zero tolerance for violations. This year certain items are banned on the beach including large flotation devices, coolers and tents and amplified music.

When? May 25 - 28, 2018
Where? Throughout South Beach
How Much? This is an outdoor event, no "admission" per se.
More Info: www.blackbeachweek.com
The Nine Best Memorial Day 2018 Weekend Hip-Hop Events in Miami

Memorial Day Weekend Entertainment and Sports

The Marlins and the Washington Nationals at Marlins Ballpark on Memorial Day Weekend!

Welcome Washington Nationals!

When? Friday - Sunday May 25 - 27, 2018

Where? Marlins Park, 501 Marlins Way (NW 16th Avenue), Miami, Florida 33125

How Much? Individual game tickets can be had for as low as $11.

Fun Things To Do This Memorial Day Weekend

Here's a handful of fun things to do in Miami and check the offers at the bottom for some great discounts and limited-time offers.

Snorkeling The Reefs

This is after all the "unofficial" start of the summer vacation season!

Waters should be beckoning, it's time to strap the mask and snorkel and head out to our colorful reefs!

The third largest coral reef in the world (after Australia's and Belize's) lays right at our doorstep.

›› Miami Snorkeling Options, Tips, Boat Tours, FAQs
›› Best Spots to Snorkel from the Beach around Miami

Flyboarding

The newest craze in watersports, this is something you just HAVE to try!

With the right instruction, (which we had and we tell you all about it) you can be up and flying in no time and it's a feeling like no other...

There are a few places in Miami where flyboarding is available as well as many operators that will come to you, just agree on a time and place, the ultimate in convenience, reservations are of course a must.
›› More about Flyboarding in Miami

Cruising Around On A Segway

This has to be one of the funnest ways to sightsee. There are many tours that take you through the heart of the Art Deco District in South Beach, along South Pointe, the Miami Riverwalk... or simply rent a segway at one of the many outlets throughout the city and explore on your own!

New to Segwaying? (is that a verb?) No worries, friendly guides provide all the instruction and equipment for you to ramble through the popular spots safely and with confidence and make sure everyone has a good time.
›› Ride a Segway in Miami

Jetskiing in Miami: The rules have changed, if you were born after January 1, 1988, read this!

There are new rules for operating Personal Watercrafts such as Jet Skis and Wave Runners. Per Florida law, anyone born on or after January 1, 1988 must take a boating test. Luckily, the courses can be taken online so anyone that needs to meet this requirement can do so before arriving in Miami.

Here's a list of approved Boating Safety Education courses. The online course offered at www.boatus.org is free, others charge a small fee between $14.99 and $29.95.

And make sure you know the rules, there are a lot of no wake zones for the manatees as well as in the busy areas.

Private Sailing Charter For Up To Six

Your Own Private Sail Boat For A Fantastic Tour On Biscayne Bay

Itineraries can be customized and you can choose to stop at an island or "No Name Harbor" where calm waters makes it a great smooth sail. The choice is yours!

Refreshments and non-alcoholic beverages are included. You can bring your own champagne and meals or request a catered lunch/dinner for an extra fee.

Included is services of a professional photographer who will capture memories for you to bring home.

How Much? from $425 for a 2-hour private sailing trip on the bay
When? Departures 10:00 am, 2:30 pm, 4:30 pm, 5:00 pm
Where? Cruises depart from Dinner Key Marina
›› More Info and Booking Private Sailing Trip in Miami.

Booking.com

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