PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WPRI) — Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer in Southern New England.
Whether you’re hitting the road, hosting a barbecue, or going to a parade, this guide has everything you need to plan ahead.
Travel
About 45 million Americans are expected to travel at least 50 miles from home for Memorial Day weekend, according to this year’s travel forecast from AAA. That’s an increase of 1.4 million travelers compared to last year, and sets a new Memorial Day weekend record.
Of those travelers, more nearly 40 million people will be driving to their destination. AAA said drivers are benefitting from cheaper gas this year, averaging $3.01 per gallon for unleaded in both Rhode Island and Massachusetts. The national average is currently $3.19 per gallon.
Gas Tracker: Find the best price in your area
Here are the best and worst times to travel by car, according to AAA:
DateWorst Travel TimeBest Travel TimeFriday, May 2312 p.m. – 8 p.m.Before 11 a.m.Saturday, May 242 p.m. – 6 p.m.Before 12 p.m.Sunday, May 251 p.m. – 5 p.m.Before 1 p.m.Monday, May 264 p.m. – 7 p.m.Before 2 p.m.
Meanwhile, about 3.6 million people are expected to fly. AAA says domestic flights are 2% more expensive this year than last, based on what travelers paid when booking Memorial Day weekend flights.
Flight Tracker: Check on arrivals and departures at TF Green, Logan
The remaining two million travelers will go by train, bus or cruise, according to AAA.
RIPTA announced it will be running its holiday service on Monday and its offices will be closed.
Pinpoint Traffic: Interactive Map, Live Cameras & Alerts »
Weather
Meteorologist T.J. Del Santo says the whole weekend looks mainly dry, but a couple of showers are possible Friday evening and over the next two days.
If you have any outdoor activities planned, you shouldn’t cancel them. Parades, observances, and barbeques should be OK.
Be sure to stay with 12 News both on air and online for weather updates.
LIST: Local Memorial Day parades, ceremonies and other events
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