Remember when Memorial Day Weekend (pre covid-19) was the kick off to everything we love about Chicago.

Not so much this year. Here’s a look at Memorial Day Weekend 2020 and a look back:

2020

Time to head to the Riverwalk (sorry closed); rent a kayak on the Chicago River (sorry closed): Bike the Drive (nope)!

OK, maybe just head to the beach.

What??? The beach is closed!

That can’t be possible.

Then, perhaps just the Memorial Day Parade and a bite at a restaurant?

NO! Don’t say it.

Yes, Memorial Day 2020 will be a little different to say the least–but there is hope for the future.

Until then here’s a look back at more typical times on Memorial Days of the Past from Show Me Chicago.

Memorial Day 2010

Navy Pier fireworks.

Who remembers Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest, the Stanley Cup playoffs, fireworks, the Cubs?–just a few of the things we took for granted a decade ago.

http://www.chicagonow.com/show-me-chicago/2010/05/chicago-memorial-day-weekend-events-fireworks-parade-festivals-50-cent-bike-the-drive-and-more/

Memorial Day Heroes

The Parade and Wreath Laying–a part of Chicago’s Memorial Day celebrations–like forever. This year, we can’t go to the parade but we can still thank and salute our heroes–if only virtually.

A look back: http://www.chicagonow.com/show-me-chicago/2010/05/memorial-day-heroes-pictures-taken-pre-parade-chicago-2010/#image/9

Memorial Day 2011

In 2011, Memorial Day was a flurry of activities. Raise your hand if you remember the Chicago Critical Mass Monthly Bike Ride and Downtown Sound.

Check them and more out here: http://www.chicagonow.com/show-me-chicago/2011/05/memorial-day-2011-events-kick-off-summer-in-chicago/

Memorial Day 2012: 15 Ways to Celebrate

15 Ways to Celebrate was just the tip of the iceberg for Memorial Day activities back in 2012.

Here’s a look: http://www.chicagonow.com/show-me-chicago/2012/05/memorial-day-weekend-2012-15-ways-to-celebrate-memorial-day-weekend-chicago-style/

The Obama Family comes to Chicago for Memorial Day

The Obama’s have deep roots in Chicago. Photo: John Byrne, Chicago Tribune reporter, June 16, 2012

Malia was 11 and Sasha was 8 when the Obama family came to Chicago for Memorial Day in 2010 saying they’d be spending a quiet weekend in the city–but speculation was high as to where they might be seen.

http://www.chicagonow.com/show-me-chicago/2010/05/the-obama-watch-obama-family-to-spend-memorial-day-weekend-in-chicago-10-spots-they-may-visit/

The Riverwalk 2015

Excitement was fever pitch as Phase One of the Riverwalk opened to the public (sans dogs)–5 years ago.

http://www.chicagonow.com/show-me-chicago/2015/06/chicago-riverwalk-a-guide-to-getting-around/

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