by Lauren Sloat - 260 Reviews - 86 List
You can't pick a better place to celebrate Memorial Day and those who have served our country in the military than Washington, D.C. The city's rich collection of war and veteran memorials make this the perfect place to honor those who have fought for freedom and equality. Of course, Memorial Day is also about celebrating the beginning of summer, so break out those flags and flip-flops! From Arlington Cemetery to a rooftop pool party, there's a Memorial Day celebration here for every Washingtonian. (Pictured: Arlington National Cemetery)
Updated: June 02, 2010
Honor the unknown soldier and the true meaning of this holiday at 11am on May 31, when the Memorial Ampitheater will host roughly 5,000 visitors at the cemetery's annual memorial service.
Head to the Capitol's West Lawn (at First Street NW) to catch the 21st annual PBS National Memorial Day Concert on May 30. The show is at 8pm, but gates open at 5pm. Gary Sinise and Joe Mantegna host. Other guests include Colin Powell, Brad Paisley and the National Symphony Orchestra.
Honor those who have served our country at one of the memorials erected in their honor. Start at the World War II monument for a wreath-laying ceremony at 9am on May 31, then head to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial at 1pm for a ceremony and Presentation of the Colors and guest speakers. You can also catch the National Memorial Day Parade along Constitution Avenue starting at 2pm.
One of D.C.'s favorite pastimes, Jazz in the Garden, returns for the 10th year on May 28 with jazz singer Leslie Summey, from 5pm to 8:30pm. Pack a picnic, bring a blanket and get a pitcher of sangria from the Pavillion Cafe. Arrive early to nab prime real estate on the grass.
Celebrate the arrival of summer with a plethora of flesh and booze at this waterfront bar. Collars will be popped, yachts docked and necklines plunging at this celebrity favorite where the Washington Capitals and J.K. Rowling have recently been spotted.
The second in this summer's pool party series--featured on an episode of ?The Real World D.C.?--hosted by brightestyoungthings.com will take place at this newly renovated hotel on May 29. Splash around at "Camp Camp" from 12pm to 8pm for $15. More details available at http://bit.ly/9BBaIt.
The Beacon Hotel's rooftop bar is an underrated summertime gem. Open seasonally starting May 4, the breezy rooftop provides a place to cool down while taking in sunset-backed views, and the fountains provide relief from unbearable humidity. Just don't plan to end the party here; it closes at 10:30pm.