10 Fun Ideas for What to Do on Memorial Day

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer and provides a much-needed three-day break for many Americans. While the holiday holds deep significance as a time to honor fallen military service members, it's also become a cherished opportunity for friends and family to gather and celebrate the values these heroes fought to protect. If you're wondering what to do on Memorial Day this year, here's a comprehensive guide to making the most of this meaningful weekend.

1. Host a Patriotic Backyard BBQ with a Purpose

Nothing says "Memorial Day weekend" quite like firing up the grill. Take your traditional cookout to the next level by incorporating thoughtful elements that honor the holiday's true meaning.

Planning Your Menu:

Serve classic American fare like burgers, hot dogs, and apple pie.
Create red, white, and blue themed dishes, like a berry trifle or patriotic fruit skewers.
Consider regional specialties that celebrate America's diverse culinary traditions.

Meaningful Touches:

Begin your gathering with a brief moment of silence at 3 p.m., joining the National Moment of Remembrance.
Set up a "Remember and Honor" table with photos of family members who served.
Invite guests to share stories of service members they've known.

Decoration Ideas:

Hang American flags throughout your space.
Use patriotic bunting along fences and porches.
Incorporate red, white, and blue flowers into centerpieces.
Light up your yard with string lights for evening festivities.

A Memorial Day BBQ provides the perfect backdrop for building community while acknowledging the sacrifices that make our gatherings possible.

2. Attend a Local Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony

Communities across America host parades and ceremonies to honor fallen service members, making this one of the most meaningful things to do on Memorial Day.

Before You Go:

Check your local news outlets or city website for parade routes and times.
Bring portable chairs, water bottles, and American flags to wave.
Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Consider the weather forecast and dress appropriately.

Making It Educational:

Research the history of Memorial Day before attending.
Point out different military branches represented in the parade to children.
Explain the significance of various patriotic symbols and traditions.

Extending the Experience:

Many parades conclude with memorial services at local cemeteries or monuments.
These ceremonies often include moving speeches, wreath-laying, and military honors.
Stay for these events to experience the full emotional impact of the holiday.

Attending these community events connects you with neighbors while collectively honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

3. Plan a Day at the Beach, Lake, or Pool

Memorial Day weekend traditionally opens the swimming season across much of the country. Spending a day by the water offers relaxation, recreation, and a chance to celebrate the start of summer.

Beach Day Essentials:

Pack a cooler with refreshing snacks and beverages.
Bring shade options like umbrellas or pop-up tents.
Don't forget sunscreen, hats, and protective clothing.
Include games like volleyball, frisbee, or sandcastle-building supplies.

Lake Activities:

Rent kayaks, canoes, or paddleboards for on-water adventures.
Prepare fishing gear for a peaceful day of angling.
Scout out hiking trails surrounding the lake for additional exploration.
Research local wildlife you might spot during your visit.

Pool Party Ideas:

Organize swimming races or water games.
Set up a poolside playlist with summer classics.
Provide colorful pool floats and water toys.
Create a refreshment station with hydrating options.

When planning your water adventure, research if any beaches or lakes hold special Memorial Day events, like veterans' swims or waterside ceremonies, that might add meaning to your day.

4. Explore a National Park or Historic Site

Memorial Day weekend provides an excellent opportunity to connect with America's natural beauty and history. Many national parks and historic sites hold special programming during this weekend.

Planning Your Visit:

Check the National Park Service website for parks in your region.
Research if your chosen destination offers a fee-free day for the holiday.
Download trail maps and visitor guides in advance.
Make camping reservations well ahead if planning an overnight stay.

Military-Related Historic Sites:

Battlefields from various conflicts offer powerful educational experiences.
Military museums provide context for understanding service and sacrifice.
Veterans memorials create space for reflection and gratitude.
Historic forts and bases showcase military history through architecture.

Making the Most of Your Visit:

Join ranger-led programs specifically designed for Memorial Day.
Look for living history demonstrations that bring the past to life.
Participate in any memorial ceremonies held at the site.
Take rubbings of veterans' names at appropriate monuments (where permitted).

These visits provide both recreational enjoyment and educational value, making them ideal Memorial Day activities for families.

5. Create a Memorial Day Movie Marathon

When considering what to do for Memorial Day, sometimes the perfect option is a thoughtfully curated movie night that balances entertainment with education and reflection.

Setting the Scene:

Transform your living room with comfortable seating and pillows.
Hang small American flags or patriotic bunting.
Prepare themed snacks like star-shaped cookies or red and blue popcorn mixes.
Create a cozy atmosphere with soft lighting.

Film Selections:

Mix documentaries about American military history with Hollywood productions.
Include films that showcase different military branches and conflicts.
Balance more serious war films with uplifting stories of heroism and homecoming.
Consider age-appropriate options if children will be watching.

Making It Interactive:

Research facts about each film to share before viewing.
Discuss the historical accuracy of Hollywood productions.
Compare how different eras of filmmaking portrayed military service.
Share personal connections to the stories being told.

This activity offers a meaningful way to explore military themes while remaining comfortable and contemplative in your home environment.

6. Volunteer for a Veterans Organization or Memorial Day Event

One of the most meaningful things to do on Memorial Day weekend is to give back to those who've served and to honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Volunteer Opportunities:

Help place flags on veterans' graves at local cemeteries.
Assist with setting up or cleaning up after community Memorial Day events.
Participate in charity walks or runs that benefit veterans' organizations.
Offer support at VA hospitals or veterans' homes.

Organizing Your Own Service Project:

Collect care package items for deployed troops.
Create handmade cards and letters of appreciation.
Clean or restore local veterans' memorials.
Organize a neighborhood flag display.

Long-Term Engagement:

Use Memorial Day as a launching point for ongoing volunteer work.
Research organizations that need year-round support.
Connect with local veterans' groups about their needs.
Consider "adopting" a veteran's family for regular assistance.

Volunteering transforms the holiday from a passive observance to an active demonstration of gratitude and respect.

7. Take a Historical Road Trip

memorial day decor- historical sites (1)

Memorial Day weekend offers the perfect opportunity to explore America's rich history, especially sites connected to military service and sacrifice.

Planning Your Route:

Map out historically significant locations within driving distance.
Research local monuments, museums, and landmarks.
Look for special Memorial Day events along your route.
Plan overnight accommodations if exploring multiple days.

Types of Destinations:

Presidential libraries and homes.
Military museums and installations.
Civil War battlefields and monuments.
Revolutionary War sites.
Vietnam and Korean War memorials.
World War I and II museums and historic locations.

Making It Educational and Engaging:

Create scavenger hunts for specific historical facts.
Download audio tours or historical podcasts related to your destinations.
Take photographs at each location for a memorial weekend album.
Collect stamps in a National Parks passport book.

This type of journey combines the adventure of travel with meaningful historical education and remembrance.

8. Organize Neighborhood Games and Contests

Build community and celebrate the start of summer with organized outdoor activities that bring neighbors together, perfect for wondering what to do on Memorial Day.

Classic Field Day Events:

Three-legged races and potato sack races.
Water balloon tosses and relays.
Tug-of-war competitions.
Obstacle courses for different age groups.

Patriotic Competitions:

Red, white, and blue costume contest.
American history trivia challenge.
Patriotic chalk art competition.
Flag-themed scavenger hunt.

Setting Up:

Designate different areas of a park or large yard for various activities.
Create a schedule so everyone can participate in multiple events.
Prepare ribbons or small prizes for winners.
Set up a refreshment station to keep participants hydrated.

Building in Meaning:

Begin activities with the Pledge of Allegiance.
Incorporate a moment of silence before the festivities.
Display an American flag prominently.
Consider collecting donations for military families as part of the event.

These community activities foster connection while embracing the celebratory aspects of the holiday weekend.

9. Create Memorial Day Crafts and Decorations

Artistic expression provides a wonderful way to honor the holiday, especially for families looking for memorial day activities that engage children in the meaning of the day.

Patriotic Art Projects:

Make paper poppy pins, the traditional flower of remembrance.
Create hand-painted American flags on canvas.
Design thank-you cards for veterans or active-duty military.
Craft red, white, and blue wreaths for your front door.

Memorial Keepsakes:

Create a family military service scrapbook.
Design a shadow box with memorabilia from family members who served.
Make patriotic photo frames for pictures of loved ones in uniform.
Paint memory stones to place at graves or memorials.

Outdoor Decorations:

String patriotic bunting along porches and fences.
Create luminaries to light walkways for evening gatherings.
Design flag-themed flower planters.
Make wind socks and pinwheels in red, white, and blue.

These hands-on activities not only produce beautiful decorations but also create opportunities to discuss the significance of the holiday with younger generations.

10. Host a Community Potluck with a Memorial Focus

Bring your neighborhood or friend group together for a shared meal that celebrates community while honoring the purpose of Memorial Day.

Planning the Gathering:

Choose a comfortable outdoor venue like a park or large backyard.
Create a sign-up sheet for potluck dishes to ensure variety.
Set up long tables family-style to encourage conversation.
Provide name tags that include space for guests to write who they're remembering.

Meaningful Elements:

Create a memory table where people can place photos of loved ones who served.
Provide small flags or candles for a remembrance ceremony.
Invite a local veteran to share thoughts or experiences.
Read relevant poems or quotes about service and sacrifice.

Building Tradition:

Document the gathering with photos to share with participants.
Collect recipes from the potluck to create a community cookbook.
Plan to make this an annual event that grows each year.
Create a guest book where attendees can share reflections.

This type of gathering transforms a simple meal into a profound community experience of gratitude and remembrance.

Honoring the True Meaning of Memorial Day

Whatever activities you choose for the long weekend, taking time to acknowledge the holiday's purpose adds depth and significance to your celebrations. Memorial Day exists specifically to honor those who died while serving in the U.S. military—a moment to reflect on the profound cost of freedom.

Consider incorporating the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day into whatever festivities you plan. This minute of silence, established by Congress, unites Americans in remembering fallen heroes.

By balancing fun and remembrance, you create a meaningful Memorial Day weekend that honors both the sacrifice of those who gave their lives and the freedoms they fought to protect. Whether through community events, family gatherings, or quiet moments of reflection, finding ways to acknowledge the holiday's significance makes your celebration more meaningful.

What will you do on Memorial Day this year to create memories while honoring those who gave all?

Make Your Memorial Day Memorable with the Right Touches

No matter which Memorial Day activities you choose, the right decorations can transform an ordinary gathering into something truly special. TableclothsFactory offers everything you need to create a stunning patriotic backdrop for your celebrations—from crisp white tablecloths and star-spangled runners to elegant red and blue decorative accents. Their high-quality linens and decor items ensure your Memorial Day events look polished while honoring the spirit of the holiday. Remember, sometimes it's the thoughtful details that make celebrations more meaningful, creating spaces where we can both commemorate sacrifices and celebrate the freedoms they secured.

Frequently Asked Questions About Memorial Day

When is Memorial Day celebrated?

Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday in May. In 2025, Memorial Day falls on May 26.

What's the difference between Memorial Day and Veterans Day?

Memorial Day specifically honors military personnel who died while serving in the U.S. armed forces. Veterans Day (November 11) celebrates all military veterans, including those still living.

Why do we observe a moment of silence on Memorial Day?

The National Moment of Remembrance, established by Congress in 2000, encourages all Americans to pause at 3 p.m. local time for one minute to remember those who died in service to the nation.

Is it appropriate to say "Happy Memorial Day"?

While commonly used, some veterans and military families prefer more respectful greetings like "Have a thoughtful Memorial Day" or "Wishing you a meaningful Memorial Day" to acknowledge the solemn nature of the holiday.

What does the red poppy symbolize on Memorial Day?

The red poppy became a symbol of remembrance after World War I, inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," which described poppies growing among soldiers' graves. Today, they represent remembrance for those who died in all military conflicts.

Are businesses closed on Memorial Day?

Most government offices, banks, and schools close for Memorial Day. Many retail businesses remain open, often hosting Memorial Day sales.

What are appropriate flowers to place on veterans' graves?

While any respectful floral tribute is appropriate, traditional choices include red poppies, red roses, or red, white, and blue flower arrangements.