Memorial Day is almost upon us! This three-day weekend is not only the unofficial start of summer, but also an opportunity for us to honor the people who have fought so bravely for our country.
Looking for ways to celebrate this upcoming holiday? Below you’ll find 10 ways you can commemorate the weekend. And if you yourself are a current service member or veteran—thank you for your service!
- Attend a local event — From festive parades to summer festivals, firework displays, concerts and more, Memorial Day weekend is usually ripe with fun things to do around your community. Head out to celebrate Memorial Day with other locals and say hello to summer.
- Host a family BBQ — There’s nothing better than a warm day in the backyard spent with delicious burgers, hot dogs, and, of course, all of your favorite people. Use this roundup of grilling recipes from Good Housekeeping for menu inspiration.
- Spend the day outdoors — Many consider Memorial Day weekend to be the first weekend of summer. So, if the weather is nice, head outdoors for a walk, bike ride or picnic—just don’t forget your sunscreen!
- Set off on a road trip — Three days is the perfect time frame to fit in a fun road trip! Pack up the car and head to a new place that you’ve never been before.
- Volunteer for your community — Whether it is a community soup kitchen, a blood drive, grabbing groceries for an elderly neighbor, volunteering is a great way to pay it forward and capture the true spirit of Memorial Day.
- Thank a Service Member or Veteran — While the classic Memorial Day picnics, BBQs, and relaxation is a huge part of our annual celebration, make sure to commemorate the holiday by thanking a soldier, past or present, for their service.
- Participate in the National Moment of Remembrance — Take a moment of silence at 3 p.m. local time for the National Moment of Remembrance to remember individuals who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.
- Buy a poppy — Every year, members of the VFW (Veterans of Foreign Wars) accept donations for poppies, which are usually handmade by veterans in VA hospitals. Your donation goes to support state and national rehabilitation service programs for veterans.