Memorial Day weekend is one of the most popular times to be on any lake, right up there with Independence Day and Labor Day. It’s the unofficial kickoff of the summer lake season, it’s a long holiday weekend, and it’s pretty much guaranteed to be crowded. It can be amazingly fun, but it can also be one of the more dangerous times out on the water.
Why is Memorial Day popular on the lake?
Memorial Day, unlike Independence Day, was created as a somber remembrance and honoring of fallen soldiers, rather than a party celebration. It’s origins date back to the Civil War, and our country has over 150 years of history in an annual remembrance. These days, Memorial Day officially falls on the last Monday in May.
Memorial Day is so popular on the lake because it’s always a long holiday weekend, the water and weather are usually great, and school is either out or nearly out. It is the first chance for families to take a weekend trip in summertime.
What to expect this Memorial Day weekend on the lake:
Even though Memorial Day was created to be a somber holiday, on the lake you will usually find one giant party. If that’s what you’re looking for, then heading straight to your local party cove will prove to be one of the biggest days of the year. If you’re looking for a quiet weekend on the lake, then you might as well plan to stay home and go to the lake another weekend!
Local lake businesses depend on huge holiday weekends every year, so they’re often prepared to handle large crowds. Even still, prepare to sit and wait a little bit if you’re going to be visiting restaurants and marinas. A little patience goes a long way, just take in the atmosphere. At LakeHub we are advocates for small businesses around the lake, and they want you to have a good time too!
Lake Safety on Holidays
Every holiday, tragedies occur on lakes all across the country. This includes Memorial Day weekend, so make sure you’re vigilant and prepared while out on the lake. Keep an eye out for drunk drivers and boaters, keep the proper safety equipment on board, drive and boat defensively, and of course never drive or boat while drinking. The captain of the boat is responsible for everyone on board, and law enforcement will almost certainly be on maximum patrol, so it’s not worth the risk of even a taste. The best way to make sure a fun weekend was had by all is to make sure that everyone gets home safely.
How to plan a Memorial Day weekend trip to the lake:
There are almost always fun events that happen on or around the lakes on holiday weekends, and Memorial Day is no exception. This weekend there will be parades, summer kickoff parties, barbecues, organized hikes, group sailing, live music and remembrance ceremonies.
Popular lakes to visit this Memorial Day are:
If you want to plan a vacation to the lake for Memorial Day weekend, we have a network of online lake guides that have everything from a boat ramp map to cabin rentals, campgrounds and marinas.
Just start here, pick a lake and start exploring your options.
