Top Events for a Meaningful Memorial Day in Sarasota & Beyond

Memorial Day honors the men and women who have given their lives while serving in the country's armed forces. Observed the last Monday of May, this year's day of honor is celebrated May 30th. Here, the Saunders in 60 and the MSC Blog are serving up a list of top events in Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte County to make Memorial Day a meaningful experience for the whole family. Patriot Plaza Saturday, May 28th; 11am Held at Sarasota National Cemetery May 28th a special guests and dignitaries will honor America's fallen soldiers and their families. A Tribute to Hero's Memorial Day Parade Sunday, May 29th; 5pm - 8pm Held at Lakewood Ranch Main Street, bring the whole family for a parade, music, contests and more. Memorial Day Veteran's Race Monday, May 30th; 7am Starting at Laishley Park in Punta Gorda, register to take park in these 10K and 5K races dedicated this year to the United States Army. Proceeds will go to veterans in need in Charlotte County. Memorial Day Ceremony at Veteran's Monument Park Monday, May 30th; 9am Presented by the Manatee County Veterans' Council, this ceremony will take place at the Veteran's Monument Park near U.S 41 and the Bradenton Riverwalk. Sarasota Memorial Day Parade Monday, May 30th; 10am This annual parade will begin at Main Street and Osprey Ave and will march west along Main Street to Chaplain J.D. Hamel Park where a ceremony will begin immediately after the parade. Venice Area Memorial Day Ceremony Monday, May 30th; 10am Set at Patriot's Park on U.S 41, this ceremony is hosted by the Marine Corps League of Venice. View the event page on Facebook for more information Memorial Day with the Military Heritage Museum Monday, May 30th; 11am The Military Heritage Museum and Charlotte County Veteran's Council present a ceremony at Laishley Park in Punta Gorda which includes a keynote speaker, US Paratroopers will present colors, and a performance of patriotic music by the Charlotte High School Silver King Band and vocalist Marcella Brown. Free and open to the public. Recommended to bring your own lawn chairs. "Salute to Veterans" Memorial Day Concert Monday, May 30th; 2pm The Sarasota Concert Band will play patriot music in Philippi Estate Park. Bring lawn chairs, food vendors will serve refreshments. $5.00 admission, free for children 16 and younger.   Do you know of any other good Memorial Day happenings? Share in the comments below.