What To Do For Memorial Day Weekend: Family Friendly Fun

Memorial Day is one of the most important holidays in the United States. It’s a federal holiday that honors the brave men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. While its meaning is deeply rooted in remembrance and gratitude, many also see it as the start of summer—a time to enjoy warmer weather, longer days, and a long Memorial Day weekend filled with memorial day activities, cookouts, and family time. Below, I’m sharing a round-up of what to do for Memorial Day—from meaningful traditions to fun seasonal ideas to welcome summer in a respectful and joyful way.

I’ve always found Memorial Day to be a beautiful blend of solemn remembrance and celebration of freedom. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and also enjoy the company of loved ones. Whether you plan to spend it in quiet reflection or with a memorial day parade and BBQ, there are plenty of ways to honor the day.

What To Do For Memorial Day

Before diving into the fun stuff, I want to touch on the meaning behind the holiday. Understanding what Memorial Day is really about can help guide your choices in how you spend the day. For example, someone might choose to volunteer, visit a cemetery, or attend a national memorial day ceremony before heading to a picnic or pool party. The balance of remembrance and celebration is what makes Memorial Day so special.

In this post, I’ll cover:

• The significance of Memorial Day
• How it’s traditionally celebrated across the U.S.
• Ideas for what to do on Memorial Day to make it both meaningful and enjoyable

What Is The Significance Of Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May. It began after the Civil War and was originally known as Decoration Day—a time when people would decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers, flags, and wreaths.

Today, Memorial Day honors all U.S. military personnel who have died in service. It’s a somber reminder of the cost of freedom, and many people use the day to pay respects at cemeteries, participate in moments of silence, or raise the American flag at half-staff until noon.

It’s not just another long weekend—it’s a day with deep meaning. Taking time to reflect on its significance helps us appreciate the freedom we enjoy every day.

How Is Memorial Day Celebrated In The US

Across the country, Memorial Day is recognized with ceremonies, events, and community traditions. Here are a few ways people celebrate:

• Memorial Day parades: These are held in towns big and small. They often feature veterans, marching bands, floats, and lots of red white and blue.
• National moment of remembrance: At 3 p.m. local time on Memorial Day, Americans are encouraged to pause for a minute of silence.
• Cemetery visits and grave decorating: Families may visit national cemeteries to place flowers or flags on graves.
• Flag displays: Homes, businesses, and public buildings proudly fly the American flag.
• Cookouts and BBQs: Once tributes are paid, many families gather for good food and relaxation. (Need ideas? Check out these Memorial Day snacks!)
• Travel and weekend getaways: Since it’s the start of summer, many take advantage of the long weekend to hit the road.

What To Do On Memorial Day

If you’re still wondering what to do for Memorial Day, here’s a roundup of thoughtful and fun activities you can try—whether you want to keep things low-key or make it a festive celebration.

Visit a War Memorial or Veterans’ Cemetery

Start your day with a meaningful visit to a local war memorial or veterans’ cemetery. Bring flowers or small American flags to place at the graves. It’s a simple way to pay tribute and teach kids about the holiday’s purpose.

What to bring: Flowers, mini flags, sunscreen, and maybe a small folding chair if you want to stay a while and reflect.

Attend a Memorial Day Parade

There’s nothing quite like a memorial day parade filled with patriotic music, marching veterans, and red white and blue everywhere you look. Check your city’s website or community board for times and locations.

Tip: Bring folding chairs or a blanket, water bottles, and snacks for the kids.

Host a Backyard BBQ

Firing up the grill with friends and family is a classic way to welcome the start of summer. Serve up some burgers, corn on the cob, watermelon, and don’t forget your favorite memorial day snacks.

Things to prep: Grill supplies, outdoor seating, yard games, sunscreen, and lots of napkins!

Decorate Your Home in Red, White, and Blue

Get in the spirit with red white and blue decorations. Think wreaths, tablecloths, balloons, and string lights. Even a simple DIY flag-themed centerpiece can give your home a festive feel.

Fun tip: Let the kids help make decorations with paper stars and handprint flags!

Volunteer or Donate to Veterans’ Organizations

Memorial Day is the perfect time to give back. Volunteer your time at a local veterans’ center or donate to organizations that support military families. It’s a beautiful way to honor the fallen by helping the living.

Where to look: Local VA hospitals, national organizations like Wounded Warrior Project or Homes For Our Troops.

Go on a Weekend Getaway

If your family loves travel, consider planning a Memorial Day weekend getaway. Whether it’s a beach trip, a cabin in the woods, or a visit to a historical city like Washington D.C., it’s a great way to bond and recharge.

What to pack: Swimwear, comfy shoes, sunscreen, and plenty of snacks for the road. Check out my article on what to wear on memorial day!

Have a Moment of Silence

Sometimes, the simplest gestures are the most powerful. Take one minute at 3 p.m. for the National Moment of Remembrance. Whether you’re with family, at the pool, or on a walk—pause and honor the reason for the holiday.

Idea: Set a reminder on your phone so you don’t forget.

Final Thoughts on What To Do For Memorial Day

Memorial Day is more than just a day off—it’s a time to honor the fallen, appreciate our freedoms, and welcome the start of summer with open arms. Whether you’re reflecting quietly at a cemetery or going all out with a memorial day weekend BBQ, the best memorial day activities are the ones that combine gratitude with joy.

I hope this roundup gave you some inspiration for what to do for Memorial Day. Mix and match the ideas above, and most importantly, take a moment to honor the true meaning of the day.

Let me know in the comments how you’re planning to spend your Memorial Day—whether you’re watching a memorial day parade, flying your American flag, or kicking off the start of summer with family fun.