The good news? You've got a three-day weekend ahead that's the unofficial kickoff to Summer. The better news? You're in Cleveland. We're getting the ball rolling on your holiday planning with Cleveland events that'll make this Memorial Day weekend one to, well, remember. So take some time from your normal cookout crawl and supercharge your long weekend in The Land.
And, certainly, please be sure to dedicate a moment of your weekend to remember those who have paid the ultimate price in defense of our country.
Major Vibes
As Memorial Day weekend beckons, Cleveland’s major attractions are stepping up to the plate in a major way.
Buckle up for a wild ride at Cedar Point – because, let's face it, roller coasters are just adult-sized playground equipment, right? Plus, they're saluting our heroes with a free one-day ticket for all active and retired military members and half off on tickets for their family and friends.
If the thrill of heights makes you queasy, fear not, and head over to the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, where military personnel, veterans and their families can snag $12 tickets all year round. And if you've ever fancied a peek beneath the waves without a soggy sock in sight, the Greater Cleveland Aquarium's got you covered (literally) with free general admission for military and first responders on Memorial Day. But wait, there's more.
The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Great Lakes Science Center also offer sweet military discounts. Whether you're craving a glimpse of marine life, a riff on an electric guitar, or perhaps even a fish shredding said guitar, Cleveland's the place to be this Memorial Day weekend.
Work off that homemade baklava and your choice of souvlaki, mousakka, spanakopita and more with some traditional Greek dancing during this 52nd annual event at the Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church in Tremont May 24 - 27. Treat yourself right and top it all off with some ouzo.
Nosh on ribs prepped by more than a dozen of the nation’s best ribbers, while enjoying music from bands churning out country, rock, disco, 60s and Motown at the Cuyahoga County Fairgrounds May 24 - 27. You might want to consider wearing clothes you don't mind getting sauced and bring a few extra wet naps.
Concerts in CLE
Did you really think Cleveland could only do rock and roll?
Get ready to groove at the Rock n Reggae Fest on Saturday, May 25, and Sunday, May 26, as we kick off summer with food trucks and good music against the backdrop of the city skyline. The lineup doesn’t stop there. On Thursday, May 23, Jacobs Pavilion welcomes the legendary Gary Clark Jr., promising a soulful blend of blues, rock and hip hop.
Then, on Saturday, May 25, join us at MGM Northfield Park as we celebrate the 50th anniversary of Cleveland’s very own Michael Stanley Band. If that’s not enough, head over to the House of Blues on Sunday, May 26, where the Grammy-winning X Ambassadors will have you dancing ‘til dawn with their infectious beats and electrifying performance.
And hey, why stop now? Extend your weekend and catch the rising star Noah Kahan at Blossom Music Center on Tuesday, May 28, because, let’s face it, there’s no such thing as too much when it comes to music.
Cleveland's Classical Music
Sure, they're no guitar smashers, but Cleveland's classical music scene is one of the things we pride ourselves on. This includes the renowned Cleveland Orchestra, which is hosting the Mandel Opera & Humanities Festival from Thursday, May 16 to Sunday, May 26. During Memorial Day weekend, the festival reaches its crescendo with enchanting performances like Mozart’s The Magic Flute, where the stage comes alive with puppetry and musical magic and the Cleveland Choral Ensemble’s United in Song! A Free Community Choral Celebration on Saturday, May 25. You can also salute America with the Cleveland Pops Orchestra’s Tribute to the Armed Forces on Saturday, June 1.
In the Market
The sun is out, and those fresh-air markets are calling. Get outside and take a walk for local produce, food, artisan goods and about everything under the sun at the Summer Frostville Farmers’ Market in North Olmsted, which is open every Saturday, or check out the North Union Farmers Markets at Crocker Park or Shaker Square, also open on Saturdays. Go pick up some fresh fixings for your big Memorial Day barbecue, or just browse boutique wares. Either way, it's a great time to be outside.