Looking to celebrate Memorial Day? Check out these 4 patriotic events across Kentucky
What began in the Reconstruction Era as Decoration Day — a time for the nation to decorate the graves of American Civil War soldiers — is now set aside as a day to honor those who died while serving in the nation’s military.
Along with watching a parade or visiting a cemetery for a wreath-laying ceremony, there are many other ways to celebrate the holiday in and around Lexington.
Checkout this roundup of activities and events taking place across Kentucky over Memorial Day weekend.
Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony
A Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony is set to take place in Frankfort Monday.
Beginning at 10 a.m., the ceremony takes place at the Kentucky National Guard Memorial, located at the entrance to the Boone National Guard Center. The center is located at 100 Minuteman Parkway in Frankfort.
Along with an artillery battery salute, there will also be a C-130 flyover.
After the ceremony, Adjutant General Maj. Gen. Haldane Lamberton will host an open house for Kentucky Guard veterans, retirees and alumni. This event will also take place in the Boone Center in the new auditorium near Wellman Armory, Building 112.
The event is free and open to the public.
Memorial Day Ceremony at Fort Knox
Fort Knox will hold a Memorial Day ceremony at the Kentucky Veterans Cemetery at 11:30 a.m. CDT/12:30 p.m. EST. Monday, a news release said.
During the ceremony, U.S. Army Cadet Command and Fort Knox Commander Maj. Gen. Johnny Davis will be the keynote speakers. There will also be a ceremonial wreath-laying, a 21-gun salute, a ceremony for prisoners of war and those missing in action, a flag folding and the playing of taps.
According to the news release, event parking is limited, so attendees are encouraged to arrive early.
Holiday Run: Memorial Day
Slated to begin at 9 a.m. Monday, the event takes place at A Cup of Common Wealth in downtown Lexington. The coffee shop is located at 105 Eastern Ave.
This event is by Frontrunners, an inclusive and welcoming LGBTQ run and walk club.
Memorial Weekend Festival
This is a ticketed event at Eckert’s Orchard in Versailles.
Promising “an old-fashioned, all-American festival located” at the orchard, the event Monday will feature a playground, petting farm, push-pedal carts, a wagon train and treats for children.
The event takes place between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. For more information, call 800-745-0513.
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