Memorial Day Weekend Events in Los Angeles

Celebrating Memorial Day has been a tradition since 1868; it was once called Decoration Day, but its purpose is still the same - to honor fallen soldiers and their families. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by the Congress, and designated the last Monday in May as the day for its observance.
The symbolisms use to honor the soldiers include placing flags or flowers at memorial sites, hanging the American flag at half-mast until noon, and keeping silent for one minute at three o'clock, just to name a few. Because Memorial Day is a national holiday, which falls on a three-day weekend, there is no shortage on activities to do. Living in Los Angeles, CA, many events are being held outside as the weather permits such activities as parades, concerts, and fairs.

Celebrate Memorial Day Weekend - Here's how.

THE PARK

May 26, 2008 at 10 am

The city of Lakewood is hosting a Memorial Day Ceremony at Del Valle Park

This event is free and will have various veteran groups paying tribute.

Info - http://www.lakewoodcity.org/ 5939 Henrilee Street, Lakewood, CA.

STREET FAIR

May 24 - May 25, 2008 Noon-10pm

The Hispanic Event Marketing team is coordinating a Memorial Day street fair.

This event is free, and will offer diverse food, prizes, games, music and free health screenings. This is a multi-cultural event as sponsors and exhibitors target Hispanic consumers.

Info- http://www.hispaniceventsmarketing.com/ - Wilshire Blvd & Alvarado St., Los Angeles, CA

DINNER & A MOVIE

May 25, 2008 5:30 pm

Meetup.com is hosting the Memorial Day Drive-In Movie Lollapalooza at the Mission Tiki theater. The remodeled drive-in theater will feature four first-run double features on four different screens. Films include Indiana Jones, The Chronicles of Narnia, Speed Racer, and Iron Man.
Drive-In's are rare, and Mission Tiki wants to make your experience memorable- they offer world famous food. Including, mexican food, fresh candy, and classic hotdogs.

Cost - $7.00
Info - http://www.missiontiki.com/# , Mission Tiki Drive-In 4407 State St. Montclair, CA

THE BEACH

May 24- 26, 2008 10am - 6pm

Fiesta Hermosa is the largest arts and crafts festival in Southern, CA. This event offers multiple entertainment stages, vendor booths, and a Kiddie carnival. Parking, and shuttle transportation provided free of charge.

Info - http://fiestahermosa.com/about.html Fr. 405 Freeway, take the Inglewood Avenue (Exit West) to Manhattan Beach Boulevard and turn right at Doolittle Street.

FESTIVAL

May 25-26 Noon-7pm

UCLA's 22nd Jazz Reggae Festival At Intramural field

Located on the UCLA campus, this non-profit event features top jazz, reggae and hip-hop artist. Jazz will be featured on Sunday and Reggae on Monday. Confirmed artist include Roots, Stephen Marley, and more.

Respect is enforced - No coolers, alcohol, tents, pets, or chairs.
Expect - Lots of music, food, culture, and CROWDS.

Cost - $25-$35, UCLA students and children under eight are free.

Info - http://www.jazzreggaefest.com/ 310. 825.9912, UCLA, Los Angeles, CA

COUNTY FAIR

May 24 - 26, 2008

Supporting The Topanga Community House, Topanga Canyon host their annual Music and Art Festival.

In addition to two stages of more than 50 artists, bands and performers, festival highlights include the legendary annual Memorial Day Parade, holistic therapists, and environmentally friendly products from local artists.

Info - http://www.topangadays.com/ 1440 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga, CA

Cost - $10 kids/seniors, $18 adults, Active servicemen/Children under five free.

The Parade line-up will begin Monday, May 28 at 7:00 am at Pine Tree Circle (center of town).The Parade will leave promptly at 9:00 am.