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7 Unique Things To Do in Florida on Memorial Day Weekend 2024

  • May 3, 2024
  • 5 min read

People enjoying the beach during sunset in Florida and one man has an American flag across his shoulders

Memorial Day weekend is fast approaching, and if you're looking for something unique to do aside from the usual beach day or BBQ, Florida has you covered! These exciting events are happening across the Sunshine State so you can be sure to have a memorable holiday weekend. Make sure you check out my post “Your Essential Packing List: Beach Vacation” which has a visual guide to everything you need to have in your suitcase for the perfect beach weekend!



Aircraft from an airshow fly in formation while streaming red, white, and blue smoke in honor of Memorial Day.

Head to Miami Beach for an exhilarating display of aerial stunts and marine demonstrations at the Hyundai Air & Sea Show. Marvel at high-flying jets, precision parachute teams, and thrilling watercraft performances along the stunning shoreline. This patriotic event honors the brave men and women of the armed forces while providing entertainment for the whole family. Click on the map below for hotels close to the action!

When: May 25-26, 2024





people dancing at a concert

2. WHITE SPRINGS: THE 72ND ANNUAL FLORIDA FOLK FESTIVAL

Located along the Suwannee River at Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park in White Springs, Florida, this three day festival celebrates the music, dance, stories, crafts and food that make Florida unique with more than 300 performances. From shopping locally crafted items to dining on traditional Florida cuisine, from workshops where you learn a new skill to moonlight concerts, this festival has something for everyone! If you’re not interested in camping, there are plenty of hotels and VRBOs a short drive away.

When: May 24-26, 2024





Veterans stand at ceremony on Memorial Day.

3. ST AUGUSTINE: MASSING OF THE COLORS ON MEMORIAL DAY

St Augustine never lacks in things to do, so come for the weekend and enjoy a historic tour, eat at any number of fabulous restaurants, view the art galleries, visit the fort, and then, on Monday, pay your respects to those who have lost their lives during their military service at the Massing of the Colors. This is one of my favorite cities in Florida and you'll love the range of hotels and rentals available.

When: May 26, 2024





People cheering at a music festival

4. TAMPA: UPTOWN MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL

This is a lively showcase of the diverse cultural landscape of Tampa Bay. From live music performances to interactive art exhibits, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this family-friendly event.

As you stroll through the festival grounds, you'll be immersed in a kaleidoscope of sights and sounds. Local musicians take to the stage to serenade the crowd with an eclectic mix of genres, from jazz and blues to rock and reggae. Feel the rhythm move through you as you dance along with friends and neighbors, or simply relax and enjoy the melodies under the warm Florida sun.


In addition to the musical performances, the festival features an array of art displays and activities. Talented artists showcase their creations, from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and ceramics. Watch live art demonstrations, participate in hands-on workshops, or browse the booths to find unique pieces to add to your collection. Click the map for places to stay in the area.

When: May 25-26, 2024





Performers at a theater.

5. ORLANDO: ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL FRINGE THEATRE FESTIVAL

If you're craving some cultural entertainment, head to Orlando for the International Fringe Theatre Festival, one of the largest and oldest fringe festivals in the United States. Discover a diverse lineup of performing arts, including theater, dance, comedy, and spoken word, showcasing talent from around the world. With multiple venues and performances throughout the weekend, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Looking for a place to stay during the festival? Click the map to see what's available.

When: May 14-27, 2024





people dancing on a beach

6. Fort Lauderdale: Great American Beach Party

Experience the excitement of this complimentary, family-oriented affair featuring an array of attractions. Delight in live musical performances, slip down water slides, explore the kids zone, admire vintage automobiles at the classic car show, peruse artistic creations at the art show, marvel at sand sculpting skills during the contest, witness the daring maneuvers of the SOCOM Para-Commandos during their parachute jump, pay homage to the military with a special tribute, join in the Walk of Fame ceremony, browse through various vendors and exhibitors, and much more! You can’t get any closer to the action than the hotels below!

When: May 25, 2024

 




DJ hyping up a crowd at a festival

7. PENSACOLA: MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND ON PENSACOLA BEACH

Pensacola Beach Park East comes alive with one of the state's largest pride festivals. Drawing crowds from across the nation, this event offers a vibrant celebration of diversity and community. Dance the night away at the Pensacola Circuit Party, featuring top DJs like Dan Slater and Will Lowe, or add a splash of neon to the Neon Ball with Tom Stephan and Karsten Sollors. Don't forget to dress in white for the enchanting Abracadabra event with Joe Gauthreaux and Eddie Martinez. Throughout the weekend, enjoy daily Beach Tea Dances and be mesmerized by a stunning laser and light show by Laseronics under the stars. It's a weekend of unforgettable fun, music, and camaraderie in beautiful Pensacola Beach. You can’t go wrong with any hotel in this area, but a lot of them are sold out already, so act quickly.

When: May 23-27, 2024




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