In commemoration of Memorial Day — the federal holiday honoring armed forces members who have died in service to the United States — the Georgia Tech campus will close Monday, May 27. The weekend leading into the holiday also represents the unofficial start of summer and is packed with events around Atlanta.
When: Thursday, May 23, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Where: Veterans Resource Center (BioTech Quad)
Hosted by the Division of Arts, Belonging, and Community, the Veterans Resource Center open house is an opportunity to learn about the Institute’s military history, view the recently unveiled Walk of Honor, and honor fallen service members.
Those interested in attending should RSVP by May 22.
Local Ceremonies
Communities throughout the metro area will hold Memorial Day ceremonies. Dates and times vary.
When: Friday, May 24 – Monday, May 27
Where: 6905 Virlyn B. Smith Road, Fairburn, GA 30213
Entering its final two weekends, the Georgia Renaissance Festival will open its gates for the holiday. On Monday, all active and retired military get in free with ID, and tickets for accompanying family members will be discounted at the festival box office. Set on 32 acres in Fairburn, Georgia, the festival offers jousting tournaments, live music, and traditional fair food and drinks.
When: Saturday, May 25 — Monday, May 27
Where: Piedmont Park
One of the largest free jazz festivals in the country, the 47th annual Atlanta Jazz Festival returns to Piedmont Park with 16 artists from around the world. The three-day celebration of jazz music, culture, and art is hosted by the City of Atlanta Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs. Performances begin each day at 1 p.m. Along with music, the festival features an artist's market and local food and beverage vendors throughout the park.
Memorial Day Tour: Oakland and World War I
When: Sunday, May 26, 10:30 a.m. – noon
Where: Oakland Cemetery, 248 Oakland Ave. SE, Atlanta, GA 30312
Over 500,000 Georgians registered for the Selective Service Act during World War I, and the state had more training camps than any other in the country. This tour will share the stories of soldiers and civilians buried at Oakland Cemetery.
When: Monday, May 27, 9 – 10:30 a.m.
Where: Chattahoochee Nature Center, 9135 Willeo Road, Roswell, GA 30075
As the temperatures rise, take part in this relaxing paddle on the Chattahoochee Nature Center’s Beaver Pond. The course is open to all, with canoe guides teaching paddling techniques and leading races and games to practice. All equipment is provided.
Alpharetta Symphony Presents: An Ode to America
When: Monday, May 27, 7:30 p.m.
Where: Brooke Street Park, Alpharetta, GA 30009
Commemorate Memorial Day with the Alpharetta Symphony as the group performs “patriotic tunes and big band hits that celebrate the most American of music — jazz.” Visitors are encouraged to bring a blanket, chairs, and a picnic to the show.