Memorial Day Celebrations In Philadelphia

Memorial Day is a holiday to honor our men and women in military service. It's also a day to spend time with loved ones who are here with us or remember those that never came back from their military job.Since Philadelphia is a city of living history, you don't have to travel too far to find an educational element, and since there are also numerous parades and family-related activities throughout the area, the tough part will be choosing which one you want to go to.

Dates: May 25, Aug. 17 and Sept. 14, 2013

Fireworks have been a staple at Longwood Gardens since 1907 and have been available to the public as an attraction for over 30 years. However, with the advancement of technology, computerized programs can now sync the fireworks and Longwood's fountains to music. This year, Longwood Gardens will have a show titled "Rocket Man: Music of Elton John," and it will feature hit songs such as "Philadelphia Freedom," "Candle in the Wind" and "Saturday's Alright for Fighting."

Big Bird (Credit, Christina Dagnelli)

Memorial Day Weekend Fireworks
Sesame Place
100 Sesame Road
Langhorne, PA 19047
(866) 464-3566
www.sesameplace.com

Dates: May 26, 2013

Sesame Place is open for its usual block party fun with the whole S-Street gang. But on Memorial Day weekend, the park will also have a special open-air BBQ in the Big Bird Pavilion and fireworks at 9 p.m. The BBQ is an all-you-can-eat buffet, which is perfect for families with young children. Reservations are suggested and are available at different time slots throughout the evening. Prices for the buffet are $27 for adults and $17 for kids. Children under two are free. Season pass members can enjoy 30-percent off of these prices. And don't forget: Memorial Day is also the opening of the water rides, which are fun for people of any age!

Dates: May 25-27, 2013

Along with the usual activities and shows at the Constitution Center, on Memorial Day weekend, the Center will pay tribute to those who have served in the military with additional activities. The day will begin with raising the flag during a special ceremony and an explanation of the proper protocol for raising the flag. There will also be a program about monuments across the country including Little Big Horn and The USS Arizona, and at 3 p.m., enjoy patriotic karaoke (for the truly courageous!)

Related: National Constitution Center Announces 'Summer of Love'

Independence Hall (Credit, Christina Dagnelli)

Independence Hall
520 Chestnut St.
Philadelphia, PA 19106
(215) 965-2305
www.nps.gov

Independence Hall is located in a section of Independence Mall that also includes other historical attractions such as the Liberty Bell, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the First Senate building and other museums within its one-mile radius. It is also within easy walking distance to many other city attractions. If you want to enhance your experience for the holiday, consider taking the Independence After Hours Tour. The fun evening tour includes a three-course meal at the City Tavern and is actually part tour, part re-enactment. It is available on Fridays and Saturdays for a ticketed price.

This interactive 3D film is hosted by Ben Franklin. "Lights of Liberty" will answer questions like why the Liberty Bell is important and what makes America special. Enjoy a little educational fun for your Memorial Day celebrations. The building also sells Philadelphia-themed books and gifts and has free children's activities.Related: Top Upcoming Spring Festivals and Events In Philadelphia

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Christina Dagnelli is a freelance writer in Philadelphia and the author of Little Squares with Colors: A Different way to look at autism. Her work on examiner can be found here Examiner.com.