For some, Memorial Day weekend means the end of the school year, toes in the sand, tongs on the backyard grill, or that first boat ride on the lake. While you may be eager to get your summer fun started, it’s important to recognize all of the honorable men and women who have served our beautiful country! Here’s our list of ways to get involved with the local communities in Birmingham and Auburn and celebrate Memorial Day 2018. Birmingham Hometown Parade and Party in Shain Park The annual Celebrate Birmingham Hometown Parade will be on Sunday, May 20, 2018, at 1:00 p.m. This year’s theme is Celebrating 200 Years of Stories. Participants will be creative and reflect their story relative to the City of Birmingham. The party in Shain Park will feature inflatables, a dance performance, face painting, a balloon artist, train rides, circus performers, a photo booth, and more! Talladega Superspeedway Vettes-4-Vets This annual Memorial Day Weekend event will be taking place May 25th and May 26th of this year at the Talladega Speedway. This two-day fundraiser supports Veterans programs and Veterans with a variety of needs. With over 250 Corvette owners from all around the country, don’t miss out on this fun-filled event where you can enjoy yourself and support Veterans programs. Memorial Day at the Alabama National CemeteryMemorial Day Observance will be held at the Alabama National Cemetery on Monday, May 28, 2018, at 9:00 a.m. This ceremony is a great way to remember why we celebrate Memorial Day and honor the service men and women who have given all. Memorial Day Weekend at the Zoo Memorial Day weekend begins May 26 at the Birmingham Zoo. Splash in the fountains, take a ride on the train and carousel, enjoy Wildlife Shows and experience all the Zoo has to offer. In honor of Memorial Day weekend, the Zoo is giving free admission to veterans as well as all active and retired military and their dependents. Bring your proof of military service (military ID card, dependent ID card, driver’s license, etc.) to take part in all the fun the Zoo has to offer. This Memorial Day weekend, take some time to celebrate the true reason for Memorial Day, and then celebrate the holiday with a day on the water, at the park, or relaxing with family or friends - our conveniently-located communities are near some of the best attractions! At Harris Doyle, we are thankful for those who have given their lives in the line of duty, all our active and retired military personnel, and the service they gave to our country for our freedom.