This weekend, while you’re grilling, swimming and relaxing, take a moment to remember the men and women of the armed forces who have given their lives in service to their country.
Here are some Memorial Day weekend activities that will both entertain and honor.
Atlanta Jazz Festival
The Atlanta Jazz Festival returns to Piedmont Park this weekend, with music from violinist Regina Carter, the Warren Wolf Quintet, the Gerald Clayton Trio and Ninety Miles, featuring Stefon Harris, David Sanchez and Christian Scott. This year the free festival will have musicians on two stages, with headliners on the main stage and bossa nova, Latin, and other global jazz on the International Stage. Music begins at 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, May 28 and 29, and continues with a ticketed performance Monday, May 30, at Center Stage Theatre by New Orleans star Trombone Shorty. Information: 404-546-6820; www.atlantafestivals.com
Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church
On Sunday, May 29 Mt. Bethel United Methodist Church presents "We Will Never Forget," a patriotic concert, with music from the choir, soloists and a bagpiper and an address from 89-year old WW II Army veteran Robert Turpin. The event will also feature a presentation by six of New York City's Fire Department first responders, who were present during the attacks on Sept. 11, 2001; 6 p.m. May 29, 4385 Lower Roswell Rd., Marietta, Ga. Free; offering taken. Information: 770-971-2880; www.mtbethel.org
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Over the weekend a traveling replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, called the Dignity Memorial Vietnam Wall, will be on display in Griffin at Wyomia Tyus Olympic Park, 301 Cowan Road, between Vineyard and McIntosh Roads. The replica bears the names of more than 58,000 Americans killed or missing in action. The wall is free and open to the public 24 hours a day, and will be in Griffin May 27-30. For more information, contact sponsor Haisten McCullough Funeral Home, Griffin, Ga.; 770-229-4994; www.haistenmccullough.com/
Stone Mountain
Stone Mountain’s laser show has been updated with digital projection and 3-D effects and the new show debuts Saturday, May 28. This weekend the show is accompanied by a special fireworks display offering a tribute to the Armed Forces and there are discounted admissions for military personnel. Vehicle entry: $10 for a one-day permit or $35 for annual permit. U.S. 78 East, Exit 8, Stone Mountain. Information: 770-498-5690; www.stonemountainpark.com.
Smyrna
Smyrna's annual ceremony takes place beginning at 10 a.m. Monday, May 30, at the Twentieth Century Veterans Memorial, in downtown Smyrna. Seating begins at 9 a.m. The ceremony will feature speakers including retired Col. Michael D. Steele and the Rev. Dr. Robert G. Certain, followed by music from the 116th Army Band, Georgia Army National Guard and the Tara Winds Adult Community Band. The memorial is at 800 King St., Smyrna. In the event of inclement weather, the ceremony will be held in the Smyrna Community Center, 200 Village Green Circle. Information: 770-434-6600; www.smyrnacity.com.
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