Get Out: Memorial Day Weekend

Summer has (un)officially begun. You’ve been waiting for this well-deserved break and we’re helping you stretch the long weekend with a few grand parties.

On Thursday, begin with a musical performance to honor Bayside High School’s 75th anniversary. Then attend a kiddie film fest at the Long Island Children’s Museum or dine for a deal at Great Neck Plaza, as the Spring 2011 Restaurant Week begins. On Monday, join the magnificent Memorial Day parade right in your hometown.

 
When/Where: More than 20 restaurants surrounding Great Neck Plaza along Middle Neck Road and side streets, from Sunday through June 5.
Why Go: Try exotic cuisines from Asian to Mediterranean, and everything in between, for a bargain price. Then digest your meal by walking the shops along the plaza.
Pricing: Every menu offers a three-course dinner for $23.95.

 
When/Where: Parade will start on Jayson Avenue and Northern Boulevard, on Monday at 2 p.m.
Why Go: Every year the parade gets bigger and better. Join Mayor Bloomberg and your neighbors to honor the nation’s military heroes with music and revelry marching right down your local streets.
Pricing: Free.

When/Where: Long Island Children’s Museum, 11 Davis Ave., Garden City, on Saturday and Sunday from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Why Go: Don’t miss a second chance to catch the best kid flicks of last year including “Don’t Let The Pigeon Drive the Bus,” “Love Bug,” “Ormie,” and “Electric Car.” It’s a great way to kickoff the summer.
Pricing: Free with museum admission (or $5 theater only).

 
When/Where: Hillside Boulevard south to Jericho Turnpike and east to New Hyde Park Road, on Saturday at 10 a.m.
Why Go: Get an early start on the weekend parade festivities with a brief ceremony in front of Village Hall, followed by a formal ceremony at Memorial Park.
Pricing: Free.

 
When/Where: Bayside High School, 3224 Corporal Kennedy Street, Bayside, on Thursday at 7:30 p.m.
Why Go: Built during The Great Depression, this school deserves an impressive celebration for enduring and thriving. Join the students as they commemorate the 75th anniversary with a tree planting and musical performance.
Pricing: Free.