Memorial Day Weekend events

I had planned on sharing pictures from our trip to the CDC Odyssey Museum today. Unfortunately, the guard at the gate informed us that it's closed for the next 2-3 weeks. Instead, I'll provide something useful. This information provided by the Atlantamoms.com/blog.

What is Memorial Day? – An explanation for kids

The holiday got started on May 30, 1868, when Union General John A. Logan declared the day an occasion to decorate the graves of Civil War soldiers. Twenty years later, the name was changed to Memorial Day. On May 11, 1950, Congress passed a resolution requesting that the President issue a proclamation calling on Americans to observe each Memorial Day as a day of prayer for permanent peace and designating a period on that day when the people of the United States might unite in prayer. President Richard M. Nixon declared Memorial Day a federal holiday in 1971. Memorial Day is now observed on the last Monday of May. It is an occasion to honor the men and women who died in all wars. [Source: Time for Kids]

Atlanta Memorial Weekend Events

Memorial Day Weekend Festival at Callaway Gardens Summer is just around the corner and Callaway Gardens will be heating up with a fun-filled Memorial Day Weekend Festival to get you into that warm-weather state of mind. We have an array of beach activities and events planned, so join us for some fun in the sun on this All-American holiday weekend!
WHEN: May 27th – 29th
WHERE: Callaway Gardens
Twitter: @callawaygardens
Facebook: Callaway Gardens

End of School Play Day
Summer is finally here and it is time to play. Celebrate the end of the school year with our play day celebration. We will be rolling out the hula hoops, throwing out the Frisbees, parading our parachutes and dusting off our art chalk. We will supply the toys and invite you to play some of your favorite outdoor games or invent a new one. Bo’s Bubbles will happen from 2:00 -3:30 during play day! Explore the magical world of bubbles using all kinds of wands, recycled household items & the best bubble makers ever – your hands! Learn how to let the wind carry your bubbles away & enjoy catching the bubbles as fast as you make them! Science in action, & good clean fun for all ages! All Ages
WHEN: 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM
WHERE: Chattahoochee Nature Center
Twitter: @ChattNature
Facebook: Chattahoochee Nature Center

The 2011 Atlanta Jazz Festival
WHEN: Saturday, May 28 – Monday May 30th
WHERE: Piedmont Park
Twitter: @AtlantaJazzFest

Memorial Day Weekend Salute to the Troops
Stone Mountain park honors our troops and their families, in a three-day celebration of American spirit at Atlanta’s largest Memorial Day Weekend celebration. WHEN: May 28th -30th WHERE: Stone Mountain Park
Facebook: Stone Mountain Park

Veterans Remembrance Day
Throughout the day, visitors interact with both veterans and living history interpreters who represent the various branches of the United States Armed Forces. Both share stories about battles and military strategies of the various wars through displays of authentic dress, equipment, and vehicles.
WHEN: Sunday, May 29, 2011 Noon – 5:00 PM
WHERE: Atlanta History Center

Brew at the Zoo (21 & older only!)
If you like sampling beer and wine at one of Atlanta’s wildest (literally) outdoor destinations, then Brew at the Zoo is the event for you!
WHEN: May 28th 5:30-8:30pm
WHERE: Zoo Atlanta
Twitter: @ZooATL
Facebook: Zoo Atlanta

Memorial Weekend at Chateau Elan
A Memorial Day weekend getaway is a great way to welcome summer and enjoy some quality time with the ones you love. Start your summer surrounded by rolling vineyards and warm Southern hospitality at Château Élan.
WHEN: Friday May 27th – Monday May 30th
WHERE: Chateau Elan
Twitter: @ChateauElan
Facebook: Chateau Elan

Decatur Arts Festival
Join us for the largest art event in Decatur, Georgia! The Artists Market is Memorial Day weekend, May 28-29, and other events run throughout the month of May. This month-long celebration of the arts kicks off with the Poster Unveiling on Thursday, May 5, and culminates with the closing of the Fine Arts Exhibition Sunday, June 5. Every event is free and open to the public!
WHEN: May 28 : 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. and May 29 : 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
WHERE: Downtown Decatur Square
Twitter: @DecArtsFest

Holly Springs 5K & Fun Run
WHEN: May 28, 2011 – 8:00 am
WHERE: Holly Springs Elementary