Photo by soldiersmediacenter

Summertime is nearly upon us, bringing abundant barbecues, copious camp outs and fun-in-the-sun galore. Memorial Day weekend is arguably the granddaddy of summer kick-offs, so what better way to greet the season than with FREE activities, hot deals and events that honor the occasion.

Here are 11 ways to recognize Memorial Day, save some cash and still enjoy the long weekend because — after all — you (hopefully) have the day off.

MEMORIAL DAY FREEBIES

1. Sonic Restaurant

Drive-in Sonic Restaurants are offering a buy-one, get-one-free deal through June 27 or a coupon good through July 15 on their new line of shakes and malts made with real ice cream (where available). From Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, Sonic will serve 99-cent single-topping sundaes after 8 p.m.

2. Museums

A handful of museums and galleries will close for the holiday, but many others will offer free admission to the general public. The American Association of Museums has a state-by-state list of accredited museums and phone numbers, so call ahead to check on any deals or closures at the location that interests you.

If you’re in the Nation’s Capitol, all 16 Smithsonian museums and parks continue to be free, but several are offering special Memorial Day exhibits.

3. Theme Parks

Theme and water parks kick into high gear this weekend, with several offering free or discounted admission for veterans and active-duty members of the military. Knott’s Berry Farm, Cedar Point and all 15 Cedar Fair sites are free on Sunday and Monday for vets and active-duty military, with special discounts for up to six family members. Even if you have to pay for entry, most parks feature free fireworks shows.

MEMORIAL DAY DEALS

4. Store Discounts

While department stores duke it out over the best sale offerings, smart shoppers — especially those looking for a new summer wardrobe — will head to outlet malls where already low prices are slashed even more. Over 60 of Premium Outlets’ locations will offer mall-specific deals, most offering 20 percent to 70 percent off a store’s entire selection. Premium Outlets offers such name brands as Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys, Gap and Adidas. Check the PremiumOutlets.com for up-to-date details.

5. Buy.com

If you prefer to avoid the over-heated lines (and ornery people) at malls and department stores, online retailer Buy.com will announce their holiday promotions on May 22, so watch their website for deals on computers, televisions and other home electronics.

6. Texas Appliance Tax Breaks

If you happen to live in the Lone Star State, Memorial Day weekend is a great time to replace rickety old air conditioners before the summer swelter. The Energy Star Sales Tax Holiday gives shoppers a break from all local and state taxes for the weekend. The deal is available for most Energy Star-certified products. Installation is included for some deals.

MEMORIAL DAY EVENTS

7. Parades

Cities from coast to coast play host to parades and memorial services. Most parades take place on May 31, but check VetFriends.com for a list of activities specific to your state, like wreath-laying events, free outdoor concerts and, if you live near a military harbor, ship tours.

New York, Chicago, Washington, D.C, and San Francisco each offer celebrations that annually attract over 10,000 people.

Remember to keep your eye on the skies. According to The Farmer’s Almanac, rain and thunderstorms are common throughout the country in late May.

8. Airshow

Airshows are an exhilarating way to bring the family together and see some impressive aerial acrobatics. The Experimental Aircraft Association, an organization for aviation enthusiasts, has a searchable database of airshows specializing in everything from WWI-era biplanes to ultramodern jets. For most, the only cost is gas to reach the airfield (and occasionally parking).

The New York Airshow at Jones Beach on May 28 and 29 is a standout, featuring a performance by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels.

9. I-500

The Indianapolis 500 starts its engines on May 30 at the largest stadium in the world. It may be too late for tickets, but you can still watch the race at home. Fire up your back-porch grill, invite some friends over and have an Indy themed party. You’ll avoid the crowds (not to mention flying tires) and still have a great time.

10. Services

While having your fun, keep in mind Memorial Day is a time of remembrance for those who gave their lives to protect our country. Most veterans and service organizations — including Elks and Rotary — offer intimate ways to be involved during the weekend, from volunteering at ceremonies to participating in parades. Check with your local chapter to see how you can become involved.

11. National Recognitions

The organizers of the National Moment of Remembrance ask Americans to pause at 3 p.m. Monday and honor those who’ve made the supreme sacrifice for our freedom.

Another way to recognize Memorial Day is to buy a Buddy Poppy from the Veterans of Foreign Wars . This 75-year-old program has raised millions of dollars in support of veterans’ welfare and the well-being of their dependents.