Memorial Day is often seen as the unofficial start of summer; long weekends, sunshine, and time spent with the people we love. But at its heart, it’s also a day of remembrance. It’s a time to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country and to reflect on the freedoms we enjoy because of their sacrifice.
Honoring their legacy doesn’t have to be a somber affair that excludes the kids; in fact, involving the whole family is a beautiful way to pass down the values of gratitude and service. Here are a few simple ways to honor Memorial Day:
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Observing the National Moment of Remembrance.
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Visit a Veterans' Cemetery to place flags or flowers on graves.
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Have the kids use sidewalk chalk to draw stars or write "Thank You" notes on the driveway for neighbors to see.
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Spend an hour putting together a box of goodies to send to active-duty service members.
Fun Memorial Day Activities for the Whole Family
Once you’ve taken time to reflect, it’s time to celebrate the freedom we enjoy by spending quality time with the people we love. Here are a few fun and easy ways to make the most of the holiday weekend:
1. Host a backyard cookout
There’s something timeless about gathering outside for burgers on the grill, fresh summer sides, and easy conversation. To make it feel a little extra special, set out a beautiful spread inspired by our Charcuterie Experience Box. featuring cheeses, meats, crackers, and little bites everyone can graze on while enjoying the day. It’s relaxed, welcoming, and perfect for Memorial Day.
2. Bring out the backyard games
Cornhole, ladder toss, frisbee, water balloons. Simple games have a way of bringing everyone together, no matter their age. And after all that fun, cool off with a sweet treat. An afternoon ice cream bar inspired by our Ice Cream Box adds a playful touch that kids and adults will both love.
3. Make it a pool day
If you’re lucky enough to spend Memorial Day by the pool, lean into it. Colorful towels, refreshing snacks, and outdoor fun can turn a regular afternoon into a mini staycation. Our Fun In the Sun Box fits right into that easygoing summer vibe and helps make poolside time feel even more memorable.
4. Bake patriotic treats together
Red, white, and blue cupcakes, fruit skewers, cookies, or festive rice crispy treats—holiday baking can be part activity, part tradition, and all fun. It’s also a great way to get little hands involved. Our Red, White, and Blue Family Box is a fun companion for creating those cheerful, star-spangled moments in the kitchen. Even though it says Happy Fourth of July, it can be used for Memorial Day, too.
5. Take a road trip
Even a quick day trip can feel like an adventure. Pack snacks, make a playlist, and hit the road for somewhere new or somewhere familiar that always feels special. If you have kids along for the ride, activity-filled options like our Happy Along The Journey Box can help keep little travelers engaged and excited, making the trip more memorable for everyone.
6. Camp out in your backyard
Light a cozy bonfire and spend the evening sharing stories under the stars while making s’mores. With warm, nostalgic touches from our Sweater Weather Box, an ordinary backyard night can feel like a special little escape.
7. End the day with a movie night
Blankets, popcorn, favorite snacks, and a family favorite film can be the perfect way to wind down. Our Movie Night Box makes staying in feel like an experience worth gathering around.
At the end of the day, Memorial Day is about connection. Remembering those who came before us, appreciating the present, and making meaningful memories with the people beside us now. However you spend it, here’s to a weekend filled with gratitude, joy, and moments worth holding onto.
