Fun Ideas for Memorial Day

Gather loved ones for a casual dinner outside to celebrate the unofficial start of summer. Keep the dishes and decor simple; bunches of fresh-from-the-garden blooms star on this summer table. Serve up dishes that showcase in-season produce like berries, asparagus, and greens. 

Escape to the great outdoors for a fun Memorial Day activity the whole family can enjoy. Pack a cooler, grab your fishing poles, and head out of town. Look for public parks that allow fishing. Be sure to purchase any necessary licenses before the weekend kicks off. 

Sweet summer berries are at their peak during Memorial Day weekend. Visit a local you-pick berry farm and gather the freshest strawberries and blueberries. Use them in your favorite summer dessert, or serve them up at your Memorial Day potluck. 

Get the family outside with a fun yard game competition. Set out classic Memorial Day activities like bags, ring toss, and horseshoes. Plan a friendly competition and take turns rotating through the games. 

Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to head to a local park and eat outside. Pack up ready-to-go recipes and toss a blanket in the car. Bring games, Memorial Day decor, and more for a fun day of family activities. 

Eating food family-style is one of our favorite Memorial Day ideas. Nothing says summer like an outdoor shrimp boil complete with DIY decor and cold drinks. Gather friends and get them in on the action—the food tastes better when it's prepared together. 

Memorial Day weekend is no time to be inside! Gather the family and set up an outdoor movie screen. It's easier than you think and is a fun Memorial Day idea you can use all summer long. Don't forget the popcorn. 

Sink your toes into the sand and relax during Memorial Day weekend. Gather your family and head to the local shores. Whether it's a beach, lake, or pond, your family will love being outside. Don't forget the sunscreen, drinks, and towels! 

Splish, splash! This fun Memorial Day idea is fantastic for the whole family. Plan a relaxing day of fun in the sun at your local pool. Pack up colorful accessories like noodles, balls, and flippers to keep the kids entertained. 

Fire up the grill and enjoy a feast outside. Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to uncover your grill and cook food over the coals. Invite friends to bring their favorite dishes for a potluck cookout the whole family will enjoy. 

Don't feel overwhelmed by hosting a Memorial Day party with lavish drinks and dishes. Invite friends and have each bring their favorite dish. A summer potluck is the ultimate way to eat, drink, and be merry. Set up a table outside, and enjoy the unofficial start to summer. 

Kick off Memorial Day weekend with a delicious (and patriotic!) brunch. With a DIY bloody Mary bar and fun ideas for red, white, and blue decor, this casual summer party is the perfect way to entertain friends and family. 

Sleeping under the stars is a fun Memorial Day activity for adults and older kids. Set up a tent with plenty of pillows and blankets for comfortable snoozing. Read books, stargaze, and enjoy each other's company during the long Memorial Day weekend. 

Serve up summer's unofficial drink and raise money with a lemonade stand. Use the funds to send care packages to the troops or donate to a local charity. It's a great way to teach children the true meaning of the holiday while enjoying a sweet drink in the sun.

Dessert is a must-have for any Memorial Day cookout. And nothing screams summer like a smoky roasted s'more. Set up an outdoor fire pit and all the fixings to make classic s'mores. Adults and kids will love this fun Memorial Day activity. 

Pay tribute to those who served by visiting a nearby cemetery. Place flags and flowers on the graves and honor those who have fought for our country. It's a great way to spend quality time with family and honor the meaning and history of the holiday. 

Image: Mt. Moriah Cemetery

Many cities host Memorial Day parades to honor those who serve. Gather blankets, chairs, and refreshments and head out to enjoy the festivities. It's the perfect Memorial Day activity for children and adults. 

May is National Bike Month. Dress up your bike with Memorial Day decorations like stars and streamers, then head out for a family ride. Add decorations to your helmets and wear red, white, and blue for a fun and patriotic ride around town.