Memorial Day was created to honor the men and women who died while serving in the US Armed Forces. And while many still (and should) take a moment to remember those who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedom we enjoy, the holiday has also become an annual celebration that marks the unofficial beginning of summer.

This year, tens of thousands of people will choose to spend their holiday weekends in Las Vegas, where there is never a shortage of things to do. Here are our top 5 selections.

Bruno Mars

The Cosmopolitan (May 23-24)
If you’ve ever seen Bruno Mars, whether it’s at the Super Bowl Halftime Show or bringing down the house at the Grammys, you know he may have already succeeded James Brown as the hardest working man in show business.

UFC 173: Renan Barao vs TJ Dillashaw

MGM Grand (May 24)
T.J Dillashaw was to take on top contender Junior Assunaco, but a rib injury prompted a change in the card, and now it will be bantamweight champion Renan Barao in the main event. The lineup for UFC 173 also includes a light heavyweight match between Dan Henderson and the undefeated Daniel Cormier.

Lake Mead

If your perfect Memorial Day means getting out and enjoying the summer sunshine, head to Lake Mead. From fishing and boating to scenic desert hikes, this is the place to indulge in the great outdoors, hopefully before the Vegas temperatures reach triple digits.

Cher

MGM Grand (May 25)
We’ve lost track of how many retirement tours Cher has already completed, but who’s complaining? Her “Dressed to Kill” tour also features Cyndi Lauper as the opening act.

Cabo Wabo Rocks Memorial Day Weekend

Planet Hollywood (May 23-26)
The Cabo Wabo Cantina is a busy party spot year round, but things really heat up on this holiday weekend, with guest appearances from the Dos Equis girls and live music on the Strip-side patio.