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Best Memorial Day Walks, Runs And Parades In Philadelphia

By Allen Foster

This Memorial Day, stand for something. See a parade, take a walk, go for a run, increase your human footprint. This is the day we have set aside to remember those valiant individuals who died in active service. These are the people who truly shaped history and made our great country what it is today. Every time you feel happy, safe, protected, or free, these are the men and women you need to remember. It's our most honorable holiday, so don't observe it sitting down. Stand up and be active! Here are some of the ways you can do exactly that in the "Birthplace of America."

38th Annual 5k Night Race & After Party
Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania
100 E. Northwestern Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19118
(215) 242-4200
www.blossomphiladelphia.org

Date: Thursday, May 24, 2018 at 6:30 p.m.

Get a head start on doing the right thing. On the Thursday before Memorial Day, Blossom Philadelphia, an organization founded with the intent of creating a better life and future for children born with cerebral palsy, is holding its 38th Annual 5k Night Race & After Party at the Morris Arboretum of the University of Pennsylvania. If you prefer to move at a more leisurely pace, the event also has a 2k walk or you can just sign up to hang at the After Party, which features some of Philadelphia's favorite fare and a beer garden.

Levante 5k and Burkholder Brothers Triple Threat Relay
Levante Brewing Company
208 Carter Drive, Suite 2
West Chester, PA 19382
(484) 999-8761
www.levantebrewing.com

Date: Sunday, May 27, 2018 at 10:30 a.m.

It's a first! The Levante Brewing Company's first annual 5k Brew Run and Triple Threat Relay! The event features music, local craft beer, and an "easy rolling" course that traverses the brewery grounds. For the relay race, each member of your 3-person team will complete a single one-mile loop around the brewery. You can enter either or both races (multi-event discounts are available). All paying participants receive a custom pint glass, while all entrants over 21 can get a free adult beverage. The relay begins at 10:30 and the 5k (walk or run) has an 11 a.m. start time. Refer 5 or more participants to get a $20 refund.

Memorial Day Parade, Service & Reception
Laurel Hill Cemetery
3822 Ridge Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19132
(215) 228-8200
www.thelaurelhillcemetery.org

Date: Sunday, May 27, 2018 at 12 p.m.

In 1868 at the now historic Laurel Hill Cemetery, Philadelphia experienced its very first Memorial Day observance. On Sunday, May 27, 2018 at 12 p.m., you can be part of the traditional Decoration Day service of the Grand Army Meade Post #1, which will be held at the resting place of General George Gordon Meade. At the event, attendees can expect speeches, a wreath laying, and honor guards. After the service, complimentary beer and refreshments will be served. Although the event is free, a $5 donation to help support the Laurel Hill Cemetery's work and preservation is greatly appreciated. RSVP needed.

Related: Best Places To Buy Running Shoes In The Philadelphia Area

Warminster Township Memorial Day Ceremony & Parade
Warminster Township Administration Building
401 Gibson Ave.
Warminster, PA 18974
(215) 773-0693

Date: Monday, May 28, 2018 at 10 a.m.

Presented by the Warminster VFW #6493, this beloved annual event begins at 10 a.m. with a ceremony in front of the Township Building on Gibson Avenue. At 11 a.m., the parade will commence, heading east on Henry Avenue, north on York Road, east on Street Road, and finally north on Louis Drive to end up at the VFW Post. Spectators can expect a bevy of parade attractions such as a variety of bands and other musical presentations, community service groups, classic cars, emergency service vehicles, clowns, fire engines, and much, much more!

2018 Memorial Day Parade
Historic Kennet Square
100 West State St.
Kennett Square, PA 19348
(610) 444-8188
www.historickennettsquare.com

Date: Monday, May 28, 2018 at 10 a.m.

This year, Kennett Square's Memorial Day Parade, an annual event which honors local veterans, will feature over 1,000 participants. Some of the highlights include local high school bands, color guards, bag pipes, fife and drums, antique military vehicles, classic cars, Civil War and Revolutionary War re-enactors, string bands, and more. The parade begins at Kennett High School and concludes at Union Hill Cemetery with a Veterans Memorial Day Service featuring a 21-gun salute from Kennett American Legion Post 491.

Related: Best Activities For Summer Thrill Seekers In Philadelphia

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