How did Memorial Day really start? On May 5, 1868, General John A. Logan issued a proclamation calling for “Decoration Day” to be observed annually and nationwide; he was commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of the Republic (GAR), an organization of and for Union Civil War veterans founded in Decatur, Illinois.
The first national celebration of Memorial Day (originally Decoration Day) took place May 30, 1868, at Arlington National Cemetery.
We hope that you’ll want to remember a veteran by taking part in one or more of the traditional Memorial Day celebrations that are being offered in our area. Here is a full list of activities taking place during the extended weekend.
Please check with local businesses and attractions individually for the latest COVID-19 related policy updates and hours of operation before you venture out.
FAMILY FRIENDLY
- “Putting for Patriots” at Pirate’s Cove (May 10-31)
- Street Car Showdown (May 28-30)
- Historic Downtown Brainerd Walking Tour (May 28)
- Pizza Party Happy Hour Cruise (May 29)
- Memorial Day Ceremony (May 31)
SHOPPING
- Ardor Boutique Tent Sale (May 28-29)
- Farmer’s Market in Baxter (May 28)
- Off The Rails Market (May 29)
- Cuyuna Range Farmers Market (May 29)
- Arts & Crafts Fair (May 29-31)
ARTS & CULTURE
- Bob Ross Cherrywood Challenge Quilt Exhibition (May 28-June 5)
FOOD & DRINK
- Smokey Jake’s BBQ Food Truck at Jack Pine Brewery (May 28)
- Meat Raffle at The Woods (May 28)
- Auntie M’s gluten free Fair Food at Jack Pine Brewery (May 29)
- Memorial Day Picnic (May 31)
OUTDOOR FUN, SPORTS & FITNESS
- Spring Bird Hike at the Northland Arboretum (May 29)
- Dojo in the Park (May 29)
MUSIC & PERFORMING ARTS
- Weekend Concert Series at Roundhouse Brewery (May 27-30)
- Memorial Celebration at Jack Pine Brewery (May 28-29)
- James Dahl at Ernie’s on Gull Lake (May 28)
- Todd Wohl Music Live at b*merri (May 28)
- Rockin’ Hill Band at Dunmire’s (May 29)
- Seth Doud Live at b*merri (May 29)
