Memorial Day Weekend in Charlotte

Memorial Day Weekend signifies many things in the Charlotte area. For many, it means neighborhood and public pools are open for the season. For others, it's all about NASCAR's Coca-Cola 600 and the corresponding Speed Street 600 Festival in Uptown. For others still it's a three-day weekend to kick off the summer season. And of course, let us not forget the true reason Memorial Day exists. It's to honor those military men and women who gave their lives fighting for our freedom.

Salisbury National Cemetery

While Charlotte is not home to a national cemetery, nearby Salisbury, NC is. Located just an hour northeast of Charlotte the Salisbury National Cemetery is 63.5 acres with 21,962 interments as of December 2007.

Memorial Day Weekend Events

NASCAR Coca-Cola 600
The Charlotte area is home to most NASCAR teams and drivers and the NASCAR Sprint All-Star Race on May 17 followed by the Coca-Cola 600 on May 25 are huge events. The drivers love being in their hometown and the city embraces its love for NASCAR.

Speed Street 600
The Speed Street 600 Festival takes place May 22-24 in the streets of Uptown Charlotte and features appearances, autograph sessions and demonstrations from some of NASCAR's best drivers and pit crews. The Festival also features some great live entertainment. Two performers gracing this year's stage are country music recording artists Kellie Pickler and Travis Tritt.

Charlotte Spraygrounds
Each Memorial Day weekend, five Charlotte area parks open up their spraygrounds for kids to cool off and run around in. The spraygrounds features water spouts, splash areas and a soft surface that are perfect for kids of all ages, especially younger ones who may be intimidated by swimming pools.

Weathering Program: Our Soaring Symbol
Visit the Carolina Raptor Center on Memorial Day for a special look at their resident eagles. Eagle presentations are at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.