The Perfect Memorial Day Experience In Saugatuck: Parades, Boating, Eating & More
Woo Hoo! Finally, the season we have all been waiting for arrives, albeit unofficially, on Friday May 25 with the start of Memorial Day weekend. This kick off to summer is always anticipated with great joy and excitement and 2018 seems right on track. The weather is cooperating – despite the crazy spring we had! And the blooms are sprouting, so the vacationers are not far behind. And with them comes the summertime events. Saugatuck kicks into full swing over Memorial Day weekend.
“ Don’t rain on my parade. ”
~ Barbra Streisand
Friday
Friday night things get rolling with live music on the lawn at Borrowed Time. This will be a summertime treat every weekend. And Saugatuck Brewing Company’s bartender is stepping from behind the bar into the spotlight for a solo performance on guitar.
Saturday
On Saturday, new stores, many with hand-crafted goods, are opening. While traditional galleries will also be opening up during this three-day weekend. Artist Ruth Crowe will be on hand Saturday – Monday to discuss her encaustic art during a studio sale at Waterstreet Gallery. While over at LaFontsee Galleries, a new group show opens Saturday night. With the theme “Let’s Jump In” it’s a fitting way to approach the start of summer. And Michigan’s largest Antique Show – Allegan Antique Market – will be opening up Saturday morning at 8 a.m. Of course, the beaches will be the star attraction of the weekend. Folks gather to relax and create memories with loved ones and reunite with the shoreline many haven’t seen for a while. A popular Saturday night summer entertainment option begins this weekend. Virtue Cider hosts its first open air concert series at 7 p.m. with Chicago-based musicians Ryley Walker and Bruce Lamont.
Sunday
Virtue Cider will be keeping the holiday theme going with a Sunday afternoon barbecue from noon – 7 p.m.
Memorial Day Monday
All this revelry is certainly fun. But it’s on Monday, that the community gathers in the early morning to honor our veterans. When they remember those who’ve given the ultimate sacrifice, the real Memorial Day spirit emerges. The Memorial Day parades are at Saugatuck (9 a.m.) and Douglas (10 a.m.). They are wonderful reminders about the joy of gathering together to observe a national holiday that unites us all. Sponsored by the Veterans of Foreign Wars, these community gatherings in our small towns allow us to honor those who have served, and continue to serve, our country. Come together with young and old, new friends, old friends and soon-to-be friends. We set the tone for all the wonderful summer memories just waiting to be made in 2018.
Happy Memorial Day.