Some Eclectic Suggestions For A Wonderful Memorial Day Weekend

The long Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start to Summer here in Southern California and there are usually too many events going on to count. Here are a few of the things happening this weekend that I think would make for an interesting holiday:

One of the best celebrations of the year is the Topanga Days festival held over all three days of the Memorial Day weekend. This year, the 41st annual edition celebrates music, the arts and the work of local artisans with almost 3 dozen live acts, art, jewelry and clothing booths, and drum circles and drumming lessons. There is plenty of great food, games & activities such as horseshoes, sack racing, water balloon fights and pie eating contests, and a big parade on Monday. 

The 28th Annual Jazz Reggae Festival is Saturday and Sunday at Intramural Field at UCLA. A fusion of music, culture, art, and food, this event has become a tradition of the Los Angeles community. Founded by and produced by the students of UCLA, the Jazz Reggae Festival is the largest student-run festival in the nation. The festival showcases both emerging and legendary artists and this year's acts include Snoop Dogg, Black Uhuru and members of the Marley family. Go to this link to see the exceptional amount of food and crafts that are also being offered at the festival.

Howl at the Moon, an indescribable dueling piano bar in Universal City that also features big bands and plenty of dancing, has its Summer Kick Off Party from 7 pm to 2 am on Sunday. Featuring covers of diverse artists ranging from Journey to the Charlie Daniels Band to Mumford and Sons, there will be plenty of entertainment as well as tons of food and drink specials to get Summer started off with a bang. 

Finally, since the purpose of Memorial Day is to honor and remember the men and women who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces, Santa Monica's historic Woodlawn Cemetery, Mortuary & Mausoleum is hosting its 76th Annual Memorial Day Observance on Monday. This year's event will be a special one with the unveiling of the Commemorative Wall honoring Santa Monica war veterans who lost their lives while serving our country. Other program highlights include patriotic music by the Santa Monica Oceanaires, a Condor Squadron Missing Man Formation Flyover, and guest speakers. This is a family friendly event and food and beverages will be available for purchase from Earlez Grille.