Nothing says summer like Memorial Day weekend. An extra day off, plus the imminent approach of June, the end of school and lack of snow, creates high spirits that few things can diminish. It’s time to get outside and spend your days in the sun — after all, what’s better than celebrating the start of a new season with corn hole by the lake and more hours of sun?

Here are the top ways to make the most of your three-day weekend.

Camp Richardson

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It’s time for Richardson’s Ice Cream Parlor to open its doors for the summer — get your fill of ice cream (keep in mind, the scoops put softballs to shame) on a sunny afternoon at an iconic South Shore location. Upgrade the trip there by biking in and earning those sugar-packed calories.

While you’re in the vicinity you might as well swing by The Beacon and grab an infamous Rum Runner and settle in. Take in Tahoe’s majestic scenery and get your fill of people-watching in one go: Camp Rich is one of the most popular summer spots, and a holiday weekend only adds to the excitement.

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Tallac Historic Site

Located just down California Route 89 from Camp Richardson is the Tallac Historic Site, which opens for the season on Saturday, May 27. This spot is perfect for those who want to learn a little somethin’ somethin’ about Tahoe’s history: explore the Pope and Baldwin Estates, visit the on-site museum and wander through the gardens.

Various tours and programs are available, so check out http://www.tahoeheritage.org for the details.

Summer Kick Off Car and Bike Show at Heavenly Village

Each year Good Samaritans Safe Ride — a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free and safe rides to those who have had too much to drink — produces a handful of car, truck and motorcycle shows in the Heavenly Village. The first of 2017, Lake Tahoe Summer Kick Off Car and Bike Show, begins Friday, May 26, and concludes Monday, May 29. The free show is open to all and features 25 trophies, a poker run and sidewalk sales. For those who love classic automobiles, this is where you’ll want to be.

Good Samaritans Safe Ride also launches its 2017 giveaway with the show: This year’s package includes a 1955 Pleasure Craft Canned Ham vintage camping trailer and a 1955 Lincoln Capri two-door hardtop. The prize will be raffled off in October, but ticket sales begin now and are offered for $10 each, three for $20, eight for $50, 17 for $100 and 73 for $400. You don’t need to be present in order to win!

Arts & Crafts Show

Local organization Artist to You specializes in outdoor fairs that showcase the work of local artisans and artists. From Friday, May 26, through Sunday, May 28, Round Hill Square will host a mix of creatives who focus on everything from pottery to jewelry, sculpture, woodworks and more.

Art lovers won’t want to miss this three-day event, which is held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day.

Other Options

If you spend a weekend in Tahoe and don’t spend an ample amount of time outdoors, were you really here? Turn any and all opportunities for sightseeing into picnics — Fallen Leaf Lake, Emerald Bay and Cave Rock are some infamous spots.

After devoting a day to hiking or biking one of the region’s many trails, conclude the day on a patio with a drink in hand. Consider Revive Coffee & Wine, which has both front and back yards, corn hole and slackline, or the Coachman Hotel — its lobby-turned-bar is open to the public and has a cozy, hipster feel.

Keep in mind: Regardless of how you choose to spend your time, expect to exercise patience — holiday weekends at the lake always draw in large crowds.