Memorial Day is a time of remembrance for those who have died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. It is when we recognize these individuals for their service and their sacrifice for our freedom. Whether you personally know someone or not, these brave soldiers fought for you – to protect you.
Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday in May every year. Due to when this holiday is on the calendar, it is also the time when families across the country kick off the start of the summer season. Pools open for the season, BBQ grills get dusted off, and winter clothes are packed away.
With so much to celebrate – why wouldn’t you want to throw a party? We’ve got everything you need to know to plan the perfect Memorial Day party.
The common theme
Because Memorial Day celebrates all the fallen soldiers in our history, the most common theme for this party should be patriotic. Red, white, and blue should be evident in all your décor – and, of course, an American flag would make a nice addition, too.
Blue with white stars, red and white stripes, patriotic garland and tableware, miniature flags, and the like can all come together to show your appreciation – and turn your venue into the perfect spot for a Memorial Day party.
Make a special note on the invitation to your guests to get decked out in red, white, and blue, as well.
A celebratory drink
You and your guests may want to raise a glass to the fallen soldiers. And, at this warm, outdoor celebration, an icy beverage may be very welcomed.
Consider creating a special drink for your guests – one that matches your theme. This is guaranteed to get a smile out of your guests.
Need ideas? Try these:
- Patriotic Punch. Red punch of your choosing (alcoholic or non-alcoholic). Garnished with strawberries and blueberries.
- Red, white, and blue Sangria. This wine-drink is filled with fruits, such as blueberries and strawberries, as well as sliced starfruit.
- Blue margarita. Using blue curacao, this drink has a bright blue, refreshing color – and taste, too.
- Fruit punch.
- Sodas.
- Red and blue Jell-O shots.
Use your imagination and come up with something you think your guests will enjoy.
Just keep the ice coming and keep it cold because there is nothing quite as refreshing as an icy cold drink on a hot day.
Food to munch
When planning your Memorial Day party, the one thing you have likely already thought of (or should have, anyway) is that you need to have a cookout. The weather is perfect for a cookout – and the taste of food fresh off the grill will make your guest’s stomachs growl.
You can choose a traditional cookout, such as one that includes hamburgers, hotdogs, and maybe some chicken. Or, you can go a bit more sophisticated with some ribs, grilled corn, a roast, lobster, shrimp, kabobs, and more. You can get creative with your meal – and can cook your side dishes on the grill, too.
Be sure to have all the fixings and condiments readily available for your guests. And, if you don’t intend to cook before your guests arrive, then you will want to make sure you have some finger foods or snacks available for your guests – just in case they arrive hungry.
Lastly, don’t forget dessert. There are many options for patriotic cakes and desserts. Consider even making homemade popsicles or a frozen dessert that will cool your guests down after a day outside.
Activities galore
There are so many activities you can choose to do at your Memorial Day party. This is especially true if you decide to hold your party outdoors. The weather is perfect this time of year to enjoy all things active outside. Your body will thank you, too. Breathe in fresh air and get moving.
If you have a pool, that would be a perfect option for your guests to enjoy. However, if you don’t, there are still many things you can do instead.
- Hook up sprinklers or outdoor water play toys. Don’t forget the super soaker Nerf guns.
- Play cornhole.
- Get teams together for a scrimmage game of baseball or football.
- Play pickleball or badminton.
- Throw a frisbee.
- Fly kites.
- Play horseshoes.
- Enjoy a game of giant Jenga.
- Create races and fun competitive games for your guests.
There are so many things you can do while outdoors for your Memorial Day party. Just be sure to bring some tunes to enjoy while you are doing it.
Location, location, location
The location of your party is just as important as the Memorial Day party itself. After all, if you choose a terrible location, then the party may turn out just the same. So, take time and consideration when choosing where to host the event.
Perhaps the most logical location would be to skip the indoor venues and focus on an outdoor setting. It is the time of year when everyone – kids and adults, alike – are excited to get outdoors, soak up the Vitamin D from the sun, and enjoy the perfect, soon-to-be summertime weather.
A tent rental is a perfect solution to your venue. These temporary structures can provide you with shade from the sun and provide protection from any inclement weather that makes its way into your Memorial Day celebration. In other words, you can have the best of both worlds – an outdoor venue with overhead protection. Not to mention that these tents come in all sizes and can be erected just about anywhere.
A Memorial Day party is about Remembrance
Last, but certainly not least, you will want to take some time to remember what Memorial Day is all about. Coming together with those you love and care about is a perfect thing to do. Someone fought for you – and died. Hold hands, give thanks, and honor these soldiers with your heart. They gave their lives so you can have your party – don’t forget that.
Celebrate big this Memorial Day. It’s time to get patriotic and cherish the memories that will be made.