Memorial Day means the first long weekend of the summer and that makes everybody happy. We have outlined some unique things to do for every type of person, so get ready to have some fun this year.

For the Pool Party Crowd
On Sunday the 24th, the perfect way to cool things down is with the weekly summer pool party series at The Mondrian pool. This Sunday will feature DJ Fashen and Morse Code. The party runs from 12 p.m. to sunset. It’s open to the public, 21 and over. The cost is $5 for gals and $15 for guys, unless you are a hotel guest or have rented a cabana or daybed (then, entry is free).

Mondrian Scottsdale
7353 E Indian School Rd., Scottsdale
480.227.4050 for cabana rentals
www.mondrianscottsdale.com

 

 

For Those Heading Out of Town
Typical of San Francisco, events come in all flavors here. For the traditional spirit of Memorial Day head to a Parade at the Presidio. At SF's WWII submarine, the USS Pampanito (at popular tourist spot Fisherman's Wharf) there is a ceremony to remember veterans and boats lost at war, with bell tolls and bagpipes - its free, and open to the public. On the USS Hornet, visit another memorial ceremony, and tours of the ship are available. Also during the weekend there is free opera in Dolores Park; Civil War battles and encampment; and Caribbean-themed Carnaval San Francisco Festival and Grand Parade. Have fun!

For the Patriot
Memorial Day is not just all about pool parties and fireworks. There is a real historical reason too! For those who want to pay tribute to fallen heros, here are a couple local services around town:

Avondale Sunset Memorial Day Service
Sunset candlelight service and tribute to veterans held in partnership with American Legion Crandall Palmer Post 61 and VFW Pat Tillman Memorial Post 40. Free.
May 25, 2009
7 – 8 p.m.
City Hall Amphitheatre
11465 W Civic Center Dr
623.333.2400
www.avondale.org

Surprise Memorial Day Parade
Parade with floats and marching units from clubs, organizations, groups, and residents to honor our fallen veterans. Free.
May 23, 2009
8:30am
Surprise Recreation Campus
15850 N Bullard Ave, Surprise
623.222.2000
www.surpriseaz.com

 

 

For Music Fans
No Doubt, with Paramore and The Sounds will play Cricket Pavilion on May 23 at 7:30 p.m. This is sure to be an amazing concert with a great crowd. Tickets start at just $10 for lawn seats with a $5 service charge. Pretty great concert for just $15.
Cricket Wireless Pavilion
2121 North 83rd Avenue, Phoenix
www.tickets.livenation.com

For Family Fun
Head north to cooler temps and the Flagstaff Memorial Day Star Fest and Lowell Observatory Birthday. For a very low cost, families will be able to use telescopes set up for viewing throughout the campus. $6.
May 24, 2009
7:30 p.m.
Lowell Observatory, Mars Hill
928.233.3211
www.lowell.edu