Patriot Freedom Festival this weekend to honor our military heritage

The 12th annual Patriot Freedom Festival was held May 28-29 at the Dayton VA Medical Center.

Credit: Tom Gilliam Photography for Dayton.com

Credit: Tom Gilliam Photography for Dayton.com

The 12th annual Patriot Freedom Festival was held May 28-29 at the Dayton VA Medical Center.

This weekend may be filled with fun, BBQ and burgers, but the reason for the holiday is one we should never forget.

To celebrate the individuals who have served in the military, The American Veterans Heritage Center will present the annual Patriot Freedom Festival. This year’s theme is “Honoring Our Military Heritage.”

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The 12th annual Patriot Freedom Festival was held May 28-29 at the Dayton VA Medical Center.

Credit: Tom Gilliam Photography for Dayton.com

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Credit: Tom Gilliam Photography for Dayton.com

Date: Saturday, May 25 and Sunday, May 26

Hours: 9 a.m.- 6 p.m. both days

Festival location: Dayton VA Medical Center Campus, 4100 W. Third St., Dayton.

Cost: Free.

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Civil War re-enactors set off canon during last year’s Patriot Freedom Festival.

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What not to miss: The opening ceremonies kick of promptly at 9 a.m. Events at the festival include historical military re-enactments, guided historical tours including the restored Garden/Grotto, military vehicles, children's activities, Miami Valley Military History Museum, Disc Golf Tournament, meeting Presidents Abraham Lincoln and Teddy Roosevelt and much more. Be sure to also catch the Veterans Interfaith Memorial Service Saturday at 4 p.m. and the Vietnam Veterans Recognition Event Sunday at 1 p.m. There will also be food and craft vendors.

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The 12th annual Patriot Freedom Festival was held May 28-29 at the Dayton VA Medical Center.

Credit: Tom Gilliam Photography for Dayton.com

icon to expand image

Credit: Tom Gilliam Photography for Dayton.com

Parking/traffic info: Parking is free. Parking lots are very close and smack dab in the middle of the event, so ample parking is available. There are two lots on Kentucky Street by the police station and on Ohio Street next to the Historic Protestant Chapel that are easily accessible.

Best time to go: Things happening every hour. Any time you go, you'll find something cool to see.

More info: Website or Facebook

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