This Week's GACC Spotlight: MDW 2026

By Judy Felicetta, GACCA Communications Director

Events Director, Blue Dog Hospitality Group

While Memorial Day Weekend has traditionally marked the commencement of the summer season, many individuals overlook the historical significance of the holiday. Memorial Day, a federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May, serves as the nation’s primary annual occasion for commemorating and honoring its deceased service members and veterans. Initially known as Decoration Day, it was officially established by a “Memorial Day Order” issued by Grand Army of the Republic Commander-in-Chief John A. Logan in 1868. The contemporary proclamation urges Americans to “observe Memorial Day by praying, according to their individual religious faith, for permanent peace.”

Atlantic County celebrates Memorial Day Weekend a little differently, with a series of engaging festivities. Notably, a Memorial Day Boat Party on Thursday, May 21, at 8:30 PM. Guests can enjoy the sunset and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, hosted by our esteemed GACCA member, Atlantic City Cruises. Additionally, Boogie Nights in the Tropicana will be hosting four nights of celebrations and exclusive performances from Thursday, May 21, to Sunday, May 24. Doors will open at 10:00 p.m. on Thursday and 9:00 p.m. on Friday and Sunday.

Do not miss the Opening of the Sea ceremony, commencing on Friday, May 22nd at 1:00 pm, followed by the 12th Annual Beach Ball Drop at Resorts Casino Hotel on Friday, May 22, at 5 PM! The entire holiday weekend outside of Resorts features beach openings, live entertainment, and special casino promotions at venues like Ocean Casino Resort. Expect beach activities, holiday ceremonies, including the Opening of the Sea. 5000 beach balls, live entertainment. It’s a beautiful tradition you shouldn’t miss.

Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City has announced the opening of a new beach experience during Memorial Day Weekend. This exclusive offering is available to hotel guests and Unity Card members. The Hard Rock Beach Experience will provide patrons with a serene seaside retreat, complete with lounge chairs, umbrellas, and complimentary beverage service.

If you don’t mind veering off the beaten path, The Deauville Inn, in Strathmere, will be hosting a weekend-long celebration, kicking things off on Friday, May 22, with a DJ Party on their Patio with DJ Razor One, starting at 5 pm. They will also be hosting their First Inaugural Crush Fest on Saturday, May 23rd, starting at 12 pm with DJ Kurteosy, and they’re finally bringing live music back with The Company performing on the Beach from 4 pm to 8 pm. Then stick around Sunday, May 24th for a DJ Dance Party at the Sandbar all day and night with DJs Finesse and Robbie Rosato!

Over at HQ2 Beachclub, French DJ and Record Producer, Hugel, is bringing his high-energy sounds on Saturday, May 23 at 11:00 a.m. The multi-Gold and Platinum-selling artist is known for global hits and remixes like “Morenita,” “Bella Ciao,” and “Breaking Me,” amassing hundreds of millions of streams worldwide.

Another excellent option, if you are more inclined towards nightlife, is to participate in an Atlantic City Bar Crawl. This is a large-scale event for individuals aged 21 and above, commencing at the Tennessee Avenue Beer Hall on Saturday, May 23rd, at 4:00 PM. The event will feature drink specials and an after-party. And on Sunday, May 24th, at 9:00 PM, Island Waterpark will host a memorable party featuring musical artist La Insuperable at the Showboat Resort.

If none of these options appeal to you, a little-known band by the name of JOURNEY will be performing at Boardwalk Hall on Saturday, May 23rd.

There are numerous and excellent options to commemorate the kickoff to summer, while also keeping in mind and commemorating those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. Summer 2026 here we come!