Memorial Day is an American holiday dedicated to honoring the military personnel who died in the line of duty, while also serving as a time for families to come together and appreciate the significance of their sacrifices with Memorial Day ideas for family.
As you plan your Memorial Day weekend, explore these 24 things to do Memorial Day weekend tailored to honor the holiday’s purpose and promote togetherness. From participating in patriotic events to engaging in creative projects and outdoor pursuits, there’s something for every family member to enjoy.
1. Barbecue Ideas for Memorial Day
No Memorial Day weekend is complete without a backyard barbecue! Invest in a grill cover to protect your grill and showcase patriotism. Dress it up and cook classic favorites for a family cookout, igniting pride with an American flag-adorned grill.
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2. Visit a Veterans Memorial or National Cemetery
Honor veterans by visiting a nearby memorial or national cemetery. Walking among the graves, reading names, and placing flowers or flags is a profound family experience.
3. Fly the American Flag at Home
Celebrate Memorial Day by displaying the American flag at your home. Purchase one as a family outing and raise it following U.S. Flag Code etiquette.
4. Make Handmade Cards for Veterans
Create heartfelt cards and letters to thank veterans. Decorate with patriotic drawings and messages. Deliver or mail to local VA hospital or veteran’s home.
5. Learn About Family Military History
Use this opportunity to dive into your own family’s military history. Discuss relatives who have served, look through old photos, and read letters or records describing their experiences. This powerful activity will create a lasting connection between your children and their heritage.
6. Watch Military-Themed Movies
Host a family movie marathon this weekend with inspiring military films like Saving Private Ryan and Band of Brothers. Explore themes of courage and sacrifice together.
7. Read Books About Military Heroes
Explore age-appropriate books together, recounting the true stories of courageous men and women who defended our freedoms throughout history. These narratives of bravery and survival will impart valuable values to your children.
8. Have a Backyard Picnic
Taking things outside for a relaxing backyard picnic is a time-honored Memorial Day tradition for families. Fire up the grill, lay out blankets, and prepare fun things to do on Memorial Day. Enjoy outdoor games and activities to enjoy amidst the comforts of home over this leisurely long weekend.
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9. Go Camping or Hiking
Enjoy outdoor adventures by camping or hiking at a nearby park, beach, or campground with your family. Connect with nature and appreciate the landscapes our military defends.
10. Play Outdoor Games
Memorial Day weekend is perfect for a family trip to one of America’s stunning national parks. Explore majestic mountains, rugged canyons, and serene forests, honoring the land our military protects.
11. Take a Trip to a National Park
Memorial Day weekend is perfect for a family trip to one of America’s stunning national parks. Explore majestic mountains, rugged canyons, and serene forests, honoring the land our military protects.
12. Visit a Military Museum or Battleship
Enhance Memorial Day with a visit to a local military museum, memorial, or battlefield. Exploring artifacts and historical settings deepens your understanding of the day’s significance.
13. Make Red, White, and Blue Desserts
Get creative in the kitchen with patriotic-themed desserts in American flag colors. Decorating these treats together as a family adds fun to your Memorial Day activities for kids.
14. Do Star-Spangled Crafts
Crafting is another great way to celebrate Memorial Day with family to spend quality time together while exercising creativity and creating Memorial Day keepsakes. Ideas include painting flower pots or windsocks with star and stripe designs, making hand-print flags or poppy pins, decorating patriotic wreaths, and more.
15. Listen to Patriotic Music
Celebrate with music! Enjoy rousing marches, military hymns, and patriotic tunes. Children can join in, marching, singing, and dancing to classics like “God Bless America” and “This Land Is Your Land.”
16. Learn About the Meaning of Memorial Day
Incorporate enjoyable commemorative activities but prioritize educating youth about Memorial Day’s true meaning and history. Understanding sacrifices enhances appreciation.
17. Participate in a Local Memorial Service
Experience a meaningful Memorial Day observance by attending a solemn memorial service in your community. From wreath-laying to “Taps”, these events honor our fallen heroes.
18. Take Flowers to a Veteran’s Grave
One simple but powerful gesture is to adorn the grave of a fallen soldier with fresh flowers on Memorial Day. Use this as a valuable teaching moment with your children about respecting the resting places of those who sacrificed everything to keep us safe and free.
19. Make Care Packages for Troops
Support active-duty military by crafting care packages with your family, including snacks, entertainment, personal care items, and heartfelt messages.
20. Support a Military Charity
There are many incredible charitable organizations dedicated to supporting military members, veterans, and their families. As a family, pick a cause and organize a fundraiser like a lemonade stand or bake sale, or simply collect monetary donations to contribute over Memorial Day weekend.
21. Write Letters to Active Service Members
Write heartfelt cards and letters to current service members to express gratitude for their sacrifices and service.
22. Interview a Veteran in Your Community
Record a video interview with a military veteran on Memorial Day to preserve their courageous stories of service.
23. Personalize Outdoor Furniture with Patriotic Flair
For an ideal patriotic outdoor ambiance, consider personalizing your patio furniture with American flag-themed chair and couch covers. These vibrant covers instantly transform ordinary outdoor pieces into eye-catching Memorial Day decor, adding a festive touch to your outdoor space.
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24. Discuss Family Values Like Patriotism and Service
Use Memorial Day to discuss American values like patriotism, valor, and selfless service with your children.
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Conclusion
These special touches elevate your outdoor Memorial Day festivities. From patriotically dressed patio furnishings to grills donning the nation’s colors, you’ll create a festive, on-theme atmosphere that pays homage to our military heroes while delighting your family. Add privacy and style to your outdoor space with versatile outdoor curtains.
No matter the Memorial Day activities chosen, prioritize quality time to honor those who sacrificed for our freedoms. Engage fully, spark discussions, and establish new traditions rooted in reverence and patriotism.
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