What to know about Memorial Day weekend in Southern Utah: Weather, traffic, things to do
Memorial Day weekend, the unofficial kickoff of summer around Southern Utah, is here.
The temperatures and weather remain cooler than normal for this time of year, and the expectations are for perfect conditions for the next several days.
So get out and take advantage of this three-day weekend. Go on a hike. Spend Monday in a park with family and friends. And if you're heading into the mountains, pack warm clothes. Daytime temps in the low 40s are in the forecast, and snowstorms could hit higher elevations
Here's everything you need to know for Memorial Day weekend — weather, traffic and tons of ideas for things to do in town or wherever you have an itch to road trip.
When is Memorial Day 2023?
Memorial Day 2023 will be observed on Monday, May 29. The federal holiday is historically recognized on the last Monday of May and honors fallen U.S. military personnel.
Memorial Day weekend weather forecast
If you're staying in the St. George area or heading to Zion National Park, expect mostly clear skies and for the temperatures to keep rising, from the mid-70s on Saturday to the mid-80s by Monday. Another break in the heat could come after though, with some clouds and the potential for rain expected by the end of the week.
The forecasts are similar for the Cedar City area but with lower temperatures, rising to about 80 degrees by Monday before cooling off again for the rest of the week.
Things to do to mark the occasion
Memorial Day has become an occasion for picnics and cookouts, but it has somber roots. It was first held on May 30, 1868, to honor those lost during the Civil War. After World War I, it was expanded to commemorate those killed in any U.S. war. Communities around the Valley are planning Memorial Day events of remembrance and you can take part.
The Memorial Day service at SunRiver Veterans Honor Park in St. George typically draws hundreds of residents, with a special presentation featuring guest speakers and the participation of local groups like the American Legion, Marine Corps League, Vietnam Veterans, Patriot Guard Riders, Knights of Columbus and Daughters of the American Revolution. This year's event is scheduled to include a speech from U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj., retired, Larry Chaston. The event starts at 8 a.m. at the park, 1766 Wide River Dr.
Other events in St. George include a remembrance hosted by the American Legion and Elks Lodge at 10 a.m. at the lodge, 650 W. 1250 North, near the Dixie Red Hills golf course.
In Cedar City, the annual Memorial Day recognition ceremony is scheduled for 10 a.m. on Monday at the Cedar City Cemetery, 685 N. Main Street.
Road closures this weekend
Maybe you're heading out for your annual summer kickoff camping trip or to explore the Grand Canyon, Zion or some other beautiful part of the state. If so, the Utah Department of Transportation has your back. Despite summer being just around the corner, a number of road closures are still in effect, especially at higher elevations, but UDOT keeps regular updates available via its website, www.udot.utah.gov. Fortunately for those in the southwestern corner of the state, most roads are free and clear of any major projects or potential delays. Just remember that thousands of other motorists will be sharing the road with you. Be patient.
Are you a veteran? Check out these deals
While Memorial Day is for honoring military personnel who died in service, businesses across the nation are showing veterans and active-duty military personnel a little love to thank them for their service.
Veterans and other military personnel can enjoy free meals and receive other discounts at many locations when they show a military identification Monday.
At some businesses, discharge papers, Veterans Administration cards and veterans organization membership cards also can be used to prove service.
The discounts are similar to what businesses offer on Veterans Day.
Some savings extend to spouses and families, and a few military discounts are offered year-round.
For a full list of the best deals available, visit our guide from Reviewed online at http://www.usatoday.com/tech/reviewedcom.
Are stores open on Memorial Day?
While Memorial Day is a large shopping holiday, some retailers will close their doors on Monday, May 29. Others, however, will remain open but may have reduced hours. For example, this year, Costco will be closed on Memorial Day while Macy's, Walmart and CVS are expected to remain open. As always, hours can vary by location, so it's best to check with your local store before heading out the door. If you're unsure of whether or not your preferred retailer is open on Memorial Day proper, consider saving yourself a trip and shopping online from the comfort of your own home.
The best seasonal Memorial Day sales
Amazon: In the market for Memorial Day decor, barbecue essentials or outdoor patio furniture? Amazon has tons of affordable options on all that and more—find Memorial Day deals across all categories right now.
Frontgate: Hosting backyard gatherings this summer? Head to Frontgate to save up to $2,200 on outdoor furniture sets this Memorial Day weekend.
Lowe's: If you're hosting this Memorial Day Weekend, Lowe's can help you get your backyard in tip-top shape. Shop deals on everything from gas grills and patio furniture sets to lawn mowers and outdoor lighting right now.
Solo Stove: Solo Stove makes one of the best fire pits we’ve ever tested and you can get the Bonfire for $150 off for Memorial Day 2023.
The Home Depot: Browse Home Depot's Memorial Day offers to save big on grills, patio furniture and more, plus save up to 20% on select outdoor essentials for a limited time only.
Walmart: Looking for affordable summer essentials? Shop Walmart's Memorial Day sale to scoop stellar rollbacks on patio furniture, pool toys, home goods, kitchen tools and so much more.
The USA Today Network contributed to this report.
This article originally appeared on St. George Spectrum & Daily News: Memorial Day weekend 2019 in St. George: Here's what you need to know
