Memorial Day is the unofficial kickoff to summer and the vacation season, as across the country people gather and hold barbecues, eat hot dogs, and start looking forward to the warm months ahead. But why not jumpstart summer vacation early this year with a trip to Tahoe? Moving tributes to our fallen heroes, fun at the lake and a variety of outdoor activities await during the long weekend!

1. Opening at the Lake and the Passport Program: Splash into the start of summer by kicking back and relaxing at the lake during its opening weekend! The reopening of the sparkling waters of Lake Tahoe signify that summer has officially arrived, and spending your long weekend lakeside all but guarantees a memorable holiday. In addition to the nautical fun that is typically associated with Lake Tahoe, like paddleboarding, windsurfing, and kayaking, you can also expect catchy live music, patio and deck opening parties, scavenger hunts, and more!

Not only are some of the best things to do in Lake Tahoe included in the lake opening schedule this weekend, but guests can experience all sorts of perks with the Passport Program. Some of the most popular Tahoe destinations are included in the program, so get your card stamped at historic Ehrman Mansion, the Tahoe Maritime Museum, the West Shore Cafe and countless others for a chance to redeem prizes, freebies, raffle entries and other enticing discounts andTahoe deals.

2. Hiking: The old adage says that “April showers bring May flowers,” and visitors to the area will certainly be treated to some full blooms this Memorial Day Weekend. Discover picturesque Lake Tahoe in depth by planning a hike through the terrain. If your group is game, take on one of the more rigorous hikes like the one along Marlette Lake that may take some time and effort, but the breathtaking views will more than make up for the exertion spent. There are also some trails that are more equivalent to a comfortable stroll, with plenty of opportunities to snap postcard-perfect photos of the lush greenery, majestic mountains and crystal-clear waters to commemorate your weekend. For example, take a leisurely hike through the Glacier Meadow Loop trail, and catch glimpses of rushing waterfalls.

3. Biking: Visitors can also speed down these Tahoe trails on a bicycle. Biking is another of the popular Lake Tahoe activities that will please the more adventurous members of your group as well as those that are less thrill seeking, as everyone can go at their own pace but still take in the gorgeous Tahoe scenery. Attempt one of the challenging mountain bike trails jam-packed with twists, turns and stunning glimpses of the rugged beauty of the area. Don’t have your cycling gear with you? No problem! Since Tahoe is considered a mecca for cyclists, there are tons of fantastic shops that can meet your biking needs. Factory Bike Tahoe City has all the bikes and equipment needed to completely outfit a day trip to one of the exhilarating bike trails.

4. Truckee/Tahoe Memorial Day Service: Memorial Day isn’t just all about barbecues, beach parties and a three-day weekend. This day of remembrance is a solemn occasion meant to honor those who’ve died serving our nation, and the Tahoe area has a few ceremonies that recognize our veterans. Nearby Truckee will be hosting their annual service at 10 am, and afterwards visitors can join WWII veteran Frank Titus for the opening of the Titus Family exhibit at the Old Jail Museum. This Truckee museum offers up an interesting look at the area’s past. In Tahoe City, attend a moving ceremony lead by the boy scouts that takes place at 5 pm at the Trails End Cemetary.

5. Fishing: Revel in the Tahoe sunshine and head out on a fishing expedition. If you haven’t fished before, Lake Tahoe is the ideal place to learn the basics, as several fishing companies offer lessons. Under these experienced instructors’ tutelage, you’ll soon grow “hooked” on the sport! Tahoe Angler Sport Fishing is the perfect destination for beginners to learn the tricks of the trade and advanced fishermen to hone in on their skills. Fishing in Lake Tahoe is a great way to round out your Memorial Day Weekend!