Memorial Day Play List

The calendar may not declare it, but summer officially begins this weekend. With the first three-day weekend we’ve had in a while, it’s time to get out and enjoy, so why not do something different.

Here are a few Patchy options you may not have considered when planning your weekend. And, it’s not to late to do something out of the ordinary.

For many, Memorial Day weekend is about the big race Sunday: The Indianapolis 500. This is the 100th anniversary of the 500-mile race. The festivities start early, but the main spectacle is at 11:45 a.m. when the green flag drops. The drive to Indy is long, but not that long — you’ll be sitting and watching cars go around and around for a while. And, you only live once, why not do something last minute.

Tickets are still available online. Buy your general admission tickets ($30), pack your cooler and make the drive down.  Your round-trip trek will still be fewer miles than the racers. 

Who knew it, but since about 8,000 B.C. people have inhabited the area that is now known as Starved Rock State Park in Utica. With canyons and waterfalls, it’s a geographical treasure in our back yard. To top it off, the state park celebrates its 100th anniversary of becoming the first recreational park in Illinois.

Maybe you don’t want to take a scenic drive on your weekend. But if the weather is compliant, why stay locked up inside? Grab your bike and head out to Darien and Waterfall Glen.  Enjoy a leisurely bike ride or hike. If you’d prefer, why not go for a long run. Or, if you have poles at hand, enjoy a little fishing. 

The three-day weekend provides an opportunity to do a little traveling. Whether you have children or not, why not turn a trip into a learning opportunity. Take a ride into the city and enjoy the Museum of Science and Industry. Body Worlds is on exhibit and the Omnimax Theater is currently showing ''Tornado Alley,'' which would be a timely experience with the recent tornadoes touching down across the Midwest. 

One of the best options may be the simplest: grilling. Head to the grocery store, buy the de rigueur burgers (beef or veggie), dogs and sweet corn. Maybe even add in a six-pack of whatever suits your fancy, find a chair and kick back. As you relax, don’t forget to remember what Memorial Day is really about: honoring those who have lost their lives in service to our country.