The countdown to the unofficial start of summer on the North Shore is ticking down. Whether you are taking in the holiday as a solemn holiday for remembering lives lost in service to the country or gearing up for the hot season, the North Shore is filled with activities. We’ve rounded up a selection of events to help you make the most of the holiday weekend.
Shark attacks at The Cabot, Beverly | May 21,24
Scare yourself out of swimming the ocean with a screening of Jaws at the Cabot. Experience the classic film on the big screen. On May 21, there will be a members only screening party. On Sunday, May 24 there will be another showing for members and nonmembers. Visit thecabot.org/whats-on for details and tickets.
Memorial Day Flag Garden, Boston Common | May 20-25
Home Base and Massachusetts Military Heroes Fund invite you to help create Boston’s iconic Memorial Day Flag Garden tribute. Each of the 37,000+ American flags planted at the Soldiers and Sailors Monument this Memorial Day will represent every brave Massachusetts service member who gave his or her life defending our country since the Revolutionary War. The completed garden is a breathtaking tribute to the true meaning of Memorial Day and a powerful message of community support to the families of these fallen heroes that their sacrifices will never be forgotten.
Kayak at Crane Beach, Ipswich | May 22-24
The Trustees will be offering various kayaking opportunities at Crane Beach on the Crane Estate. They offer kayak rentals and lessons, led by experienced guides. On Memorial Day weekend they will run professionally guided adventures, including a Choate Island Kayak & Hike trip, Castle Neck River paddle, and memory-making sunset paddle. For more information and to register.
Gold Star Run for Honor, Saugus | May 23
This annual event includes 5K and 10K runs as well as a 1-mile walk and a Kids Fun Run, all events raise money for the Cpl. Scott Procopio Scholarship Fund, honoring a Saugus native killed in Iraq in 2006. Post race festivities include free hot dogs for all participants, entertainment from Evolvement Radio, and vendor tables. Registration is open online.
Harbor cruise on Beauport Cruiselines, Gloucester | May 23
Kickoff the summer by cruising around Gloucester Harbor in style with a live DJ, a prime rib dinner buffet, and gorgeous views. Tickets available at beauportcruiselines.com.
Memorial Day Parades | May 25
A time-honored tradition, Memorial Day services and parades will be staged in many North Shore communities this weekend. Andover, Danvers, Reading, Salisbury, and Saugus are among the cities and towns that will host parades and ceremonies observing the day on Monday.