Looking for events going on during Memorial Day weekend 2019? Check out our latest guide: 15 Things to Do This Memorial Day Weekend in the Cincinnati Area
Memorial Day is the day we celebrate lives lost in service to our country. It has been an important holiday in our country since 1868, warranting business closures and a day off of school — and rightfully so. Many also consider this day the beginning of summer, and the first day you're allowed to wear white pants (if you believe in that sort of thing). There is so much to celebrate over this hallowed three-day weekend — and with everything from parades and shows to amusement park openings, there are plenty of opportunities to do so! Here are some of the Cincinnati Memorial Day Weekend events we are most looking forward to.
The Spring Grove Cemetery and Arboretum will host a number of ceremonial events throughout the weekend, starting on Thursday at 5 p.m. with the local cub scouts' flag planting ceremony. Monday is the busiest day, and includes a memorial event from the Sons of Union Veterans of the Civil War joined by the 6th Ohio Volunteer Infantry. We hear that President Lincoln himself (or at least someone who looks a lot like him) will also be making an appearance. Click here for the full event schedule.
Photo courtesy of Brian Douglas the Taste of Cincinnati Festival
Everyone's favorite foodie festival is back for its 39th year! Meander through downtown Cincinnati while partaking in more than 100 delectable treats from top Cincinnati chefs. Come hungry and with a plan to avoid being overwhelmed. While you're digesting, don't miss the live performances at six stages along Fifth Street, and when you're ready for more, make sure to check out the West Sixth Food Truck Alley on Broadway.
'Tis the season for amusement parks and swimming! Combine the fun at the opening celebration of Kings Island's Premier Water Park. Be one of the first to enjoy the 2017 season, and make sure to enjoy the new ride, Mystic Timbers. Soak City is included in the price of admission.
Photo courtesy of Coney Island
Coney Island invites you to kick the summer off with family-fun, cannonballs, laughs and the new renovations at Sunlite Water Adventure. Come see the new bath house, relax at Island Oasis, the full-service tiki bar, and get splashed at Typhoon Tower, the largest erupting hydro-storm in the world. With waterslides, an in-pool slide, Cincinnati favorite foods and tons of water fun, you are bound to have a great time!
Photo courtesy of the Cincinnati Park Board
The Krohn Conservatory was built in 1933 at the height of the art deco era, and offers a glimpse into life in the rainforest. Memorial Day falls during the seasonal butterfly show, in which thousands of butterflies fly free through the exhibit. If that isn't reason enough to celebrate here, you can enjoy $1 hot dogs and water sold by the Cincinnati Fire Department, explore the fire truck, and take a walk through the smoke house. All active military personnel and veterans get free admission.