Memorial Day is celebrated across the country in a variety of ways. Atlanta families spend the long weekend in the backyard barbecuing, enjoying the water and attending the several festivals taking place around town. To many, this weekend marks the beginning of summer, but Memorial Day weekend holds a much deeper meaning.

Memorial Day was officially recognized as a federal holiday in 1966, when President Lyndon B. Johnson recognized the start of the patriotic tradition as taking place in Waterloo, New York 100 years prior. Today, the holiday is a time to honor the many men and women who lost their lives while serving in the U.S. military. Atlanta residents can honor those that made the ultimate sacrifice by touring one of the many war memorials in the city that pay tribute to our fallen heroes.

Salute the Troops at Stone Mountain Park features a laser show that will run Monday night at 9:30 p.m. with an extended fireworks finale. Active duty, veterans and retired military personnel will also receive one free Adventure Pass with valid ID.

The largest Memorial Day ceremony in Georgia is at Roswell City Hall. Roswell Remembers opens to the public at 10 a.m. Monday. Music will follow, and then the official ceremony begins at 11 a.m. At 12:30 p.m. there’s an on-site picnic with live music.

A popular family event to attend is the annual Military Salute at the Georgia Aquarium, where a special program honors fallen soldiers in the atrium at noon.

The Marietta National Cemetery will also feature its annual Memorial Day Ceremony at noon on Monday.

In observance of Memorial Day, most metro Atlanta model homes are closed on Monday. But, Atlanta builders invite you to visit as they resume normal hours on Tuesday, May 29! To stay up-to-date on all things Atlanta real estate, as well as events in the area, be sure to check out Atlanta Real Estate Forum daily.

We wish everyone a happy and safe Memorial Day weekend! Join us in remembering the significance of this holiday as we spend time with friends and family.