Even as a military family, I have to admit that when someone says “Memorial Day” in my house, most of us conjure up images of BBQs, sales, and the start of summer activities (e.g. amusement parks and pools open and it’s acceptable to wear white). As a result, I don’t pass judgment on anyone else for looking forward to scoring some deals or having some fun over this holiday weekend.
Memorial Day Observation Ideas
I do, however, admire those who take at least a few moments on Memorial Day to remember those who have given their lives so that we have the freedom to enjoy those activities. Over the years, I’ve heard many great ideas. Here are my favorites.
- Attend a Memorial Day parade. Most include veteran groups and/or family members of fallen heroes). This is a fun and easy way to show your support for them.
- Visit the grave of a deceased veteran. Clean the area and leave flowers or an American flag. You can find a national cemetery near you by clicking here.
- Sponsor flower bouquets to be placed at the national war memorials by visiting www.memorialdayfoundation.org. If you don’t know any fallen heroes, you can still help decorate their final resting place. Your small donation is combined with others to help decorate national cemeteries and honor deceased military veterans.
- Pause for one minute of silence at 3 pm on Memorial Day. The official National Moment of Remembrance Act occurs every year at 3 pm. By pausing for one minute at that time, you will be unified with millions of individuals across the United States in remembering and honoring fallen heroes.
- Wear red, white, and blue respectfully. By dressing in patriotic colors you’ll be showing pride in your country and thus, respect for those who helped earn it and keep it. This effect is diminished if you’ve torn up an American flag to make booty shorts and a tube top.
- Decorate with red, white, and blue and display the American flag. Again, this display of patriotism is an easy way to show your national pride and respect for our veterans.
- Play patriotic music during your BBQ. Our war heroes fought and died for our right to live free and prosper so it’s okay to enjoy the day with your friends and family. A simple way to show tribute and thanks for that freedom is to create a patriotic environment at the party with the music and decorations.
Hi Corinne – I got a little teary-eyed reading all of these ideas. Thank you for sharing so many ways to celebrate this important day in our Nation’s history and I had no idea about the moment of silence. We are decked in our red, white, and blue for the party and have a fantastic All-American playlist ready to go. Thank you for co-hosting the Patriot’s Palooza party and many thanks to your Hubby and family for your service to our great country. Happy Memorial Day. Hugs, Holly