How will you observe Memorial Day this year? Do you have a favorite family tradition? If not, or if your people are up for a new adventure, check out these activities scheduled this weekend around Middle Tennessee.

No matter how you choose to celebrate, please take a moment to remember the many men and women who sacrificed their lives so we could live in freedom.

HONOR HEROES AND THEIR FLAG

Image: Chad Madden

Join other volunteers to honor those who served in our nation’s armed services by placing flags on the graves of soldiers. The Middle Tennessee Council of Scouting America is registering volunteers for flag placement in several areas on Saturday, May 23. Adults and children are welcome. You do not have to be part of Scouting America to participate.

The Freedom Trail Foundation is hosting a weekend-long event at the Healing Field of Murfreesboro Memorial Day weekend. It includes a flag retirement ceremony, honoring of veterans and more. You can even sponsor a flag to honor a personal hero. See the schedule and more.

CELEBRATE THE END OF SCHOOL

Image: Hive on the Hollow

Party time! Start the summer at Hive on the Hollow in Nolensville on Thursday, May 21. Bring snacks, something to sip and something to sit on and enjoy live music from local musicians. There are safe places for kids to play, and a nearby stream you’re welcome to fish (catch and release) while you’re there. Don’t miss the adorable miniature donkeys, llamas, emus, sheep, goats and other critters. Tickets and info.

WATCH THE NIGHT LIGHT UP

Image: Facebook (Needham’s Nursery)

The sky will come alive May 25 at the Citizens of Mt Juliet Memorial Day Drone Show. The sponsor, Needham’s Nursery, invites you to “Bring your friends, your family, your own chairs or blankets to sit on, and your patriotic spirit as we celebrate freedom, community, and 250 years of America in style!” Gates open at 7:00 PM; the drone show starts at 8:45 PM but you’ll want to get there early to visit with local vendors, representatives from every branch of the military, the Charlie Daniels Journey Home Project and more. This is a free community event. Details and directions.

EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY

Image: Facebook

Head over to Plaza Mariachi for “a celebration of flavor” with food trucks, local vendors, live entertainment, and so much more. The Nashville Foodie Fest offers heaping helpings of food and fun for all ages, making it a great outing for the whole family. Saturday, May 23, from 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM at Plaza Mariachi. Learn more.

PARTY LIKE IT’S 1595

Have you ever wanted to meet Queen Elizabeth? The first Queen Elizabeth, that is. This is your chance! Here in the glorious year of 1595, Her Majesty is visiting “her favorite village” and it promises to be quite the event. There will be intrigue as two rivals try to persuade the queen to name them as her heir. You’ll also enjoy traditional Renaissance favorites such as artisans, jesters, minstrels, pirates, jousting and other delights.

The Tennessee Renaissance Festival will be open Saturday-Monday Memorial Day weekend from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. See the event schedule, get directions and buy tickets.

Note: Digital payments weren’t really a thing in 1595 and even today connectivity is limited at the fair, so it’s best to bring cash in case you want to buy something at the fair. (And trust us, you will.)

Happy Memorial Day!