As the last Monday in May approaches quickly we can already smell the crackling charcoal and splashes of chlorinated pool-water. Though most of us focus our attention on backyard parties or a day off from work, it’s still important to remember the true meaning of Memorial Day.
Towns across the country hold yearly parades as tradition to honor those who’ve died serving the US Armed Forces. These parades offer a chance for the whole family to have fun, while still keeping the spirit of Memorial Day alive. Albany’s annual parade is sure to be a blast, as has been for many decades.
The parade will assemble at Central Ave & Ontario St in Albany, with festivities kicking-off around 9:30 am. The parade will then travel southeast on Central Ave and Washington Ave for about 1.5 miles, ultimately completing the journey at North Hawk St, directly beside the Capitol Building.
Vendors are sure to be lined up along the sides of the route with tasty food and fresh lemonade which the kids will surely love. Fortunately, if food trucks don’t have it all, downtown Albany is budding with restaurants of every type. Take a brief walk around Empire State Plaza and you’ll be sure to find something the family enjoys.
Because Memorial Day is one of the busiest travel days of the year, plan to arrive early to secure a comfy spot along the route. Fortunately, it should be a warm day with temperatures in the mid-seventies – perfect weather to enjoy a nice bike ride and cookout after the parade.
To learn about parades in the areas surrounding Albany, visit http://www.albany.com/news/memorial-day.cfm