How To Make The Most Of Memorial Day Weekend In Barnstable

BARNSTABLE, MA — Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial start of summer, is almost here – and what better place to kick off the season than Cape Cod?

The holiday, Monday, May 25, is also a somber occasion, a time to remember brave men and women of the U.S. armed forces who have died in service to their country.

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Here are some of the events planned in Barnstable and its villages over the Memorial Day period, blending remembrance and fun.

Memorial Day Parade and Observance: May 25, 10 a.m., beginning at South Congregational Church, 565 Main St., Centerville. Procession travels to Memorial Park for wreath-laying ceremonies.

Sandy Neck Beach Grand Re-Opening: May 21, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. with ribbon-cutting for refurbished beach at 11 a.m., 425 Sandy Neck Road, West Barnstable. The festivity includes food and music.

22nd Annual Troops in the Spotlight Event: May 24, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., outside Cape Cod Mall, Route 132, Hyannis. Collection of care packages for service members, with tributes, food, car show, displays, raffle, flag ceremony and more.

55th Annual Figawi Race Weekend: May 22-25. Wide variety of events around the sailing race between Hyannis Port and Nantucket. Prestart boat gathering can be seen from spots including Kalmus Beach, Saturday, 8-10 a.m.

Other informal events will be taking place throughout the Cape, from flag plantings at local cemeteries to neighborhood cookouts.

Memorial Day began in 1868 as a tribute to Union troops who lost their lives during the Civil War.

The commemoration has grown over the years to recognize all military personnel who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Designated as the last Monday of each May, the tribute became a federal holiday in 1971.

See Also:

Veterans Day And Memorial Day Are Not The Same: 5 Things To Know