Remember, Memorial Day is more than just a three-day weekend. Honor fallen heroes this Monday around Austin, or wherever you are from, by attending a flag raising, cemetery service or family gathering. There will be plenty of opportunities to show pride and appreciation.

1. Music at the Bandshell

Before the big Monday, however, Sunday will offer some free fun and relaxation. Austin is holding Music in the Park from 1 to 10 p.m. Sunday at Bandshell Community Park. Nobody says you have to stay for nine hours — unless you want to. Donations will go toward a new skate park.

 

2. Memorial Day

Memorial Day, as always, kicks off very early in Austin at 6:50 a.m. Monday with flag raisings at the VFW and American Legion. Don’t miss the annual program at the Veterans Memorial at 7:45 a.m. and the 8:45 a.m. parade, either. Check the Daily Herald’s online calendar for a breakdown of each event and time.

 

3. Church dinners

Churches haven’t forgotten about Memorial Day, either. Visit Grand Meadow’s Bear Creek Lutheran Church at 11 a.m., or Lyle’s Six Mile Grove at 11:30 a.m. on Monday — to name a couple — for Memorial Day dinners. The Moose Lodge is also holding its own special event. Get ready to eat.

 

4. Health care forum

Want to have a voice in the future of Minnesota’s health care? Wednesday will offer that chance. Seniors, parents, business owners, farmers and others interested will share their perspectives on health care 3:30 to 5 p.m. at the Hormel Historic Home. The forum is part of a statewide effort to make a difference in the future of health care. RSVP at info@chambermn.com. The forum is free.

 

Other events

Next weekend is a big deal, too. Austin doesn’t just pack it in after a citywide rummage sale, folks. The Mower County Fairgrounds is holding the 9th Annual Three Rivers Days flea market and antique show on Friday, Saturday, and yes, Sunday.

 

Look to Reporter Matt Peterson’s column every Friday for more about upcoming events in Austin. For even more, check out the calendar on Page 4 every day in the print edition and the AustinDailyHerald.com homepage.