Fun and Meaningful Ways to Celebrate Memorial Day

While most of us think of Memorial Day as the official start to summer, and live for all that that symbolizes- from swimming pools to summer vacations to lazy days in the sun- it can also be a chance to look outside our own experience and honor the meaning behind the holiday.

We know that Memorial Day has something to do with honoring those who have served in our military, but some don’t realize that it is really about remembering those who lost their lives in service.

Memorial Day is a holiday in the US that has only officially been in existence for a little over 50 years, having first become a holiday in 1971.

And yes: times are kind of tough right now politically. I understand and relate to those who are struggling with some of what is happening as our country tries to find its footing.

However, it is important to remember that those who have lost their lives serving still and will always matter. Their sacrifice matters, and the family members they left behind matter. Every life is valuable. 

This post will be a quick one, just a few suggestions and tips on things you could do as you kick off summer to honor those who paid the ultimate price, dying while serving our country. 

So here we go! A few activities you could do this week, this weekend, or anytime this summer to honor those who have gone before us in service to our nation: 

Volunteer at a Veterans’ Home or Hospital:

Go online and find your nearest veterans’ home or hospital and just inquire about setting up a time to drop in, or if there are any specific needs they have for their veterans. In many cases simply being willing to be a listening ear can be all you need to do, and can have a huge positive emotional impact on the individuals there, many of whom may not have many visitors. 

Attend a Memorial Day Parade:

Or maybe even volunteer to help at one! A parade is a fun and festive way to honor the holiday and those who served and lost their lives. 

Host a BBQ or Picnic:

Okay, this one may be more along the lines of what we all consider traditional summer fun, but simply by decorating in patriotic colors, and maybe even taking a moment of remembrance before the meal, you are honoring our service men and women. 

Participate in a Flag Placement Ceremony:

Many communities have ceremonies where volunteers place flags on the graves of veterans. You can find out if there is one happening near you, and if volunteers are needed or simply if they are open to the public. This may be a solemn activity but it can also be a deeply meaningful one.

Run or Walk in a Local Charity Race:

You don’t have to be a runner to soak up the benefits and be a part of something great! Hop online and see if there are any local races happening, put on your best red, white, and blue running gear, and go enjoy the energy you find there! 

So we’ve shared a few ideas, but as always: you do what feels right for you! If you’re in a place where you need to spend the weekend thinking about finals, take care of business! If you’re in a place where you just wrapped up finals and need to do a combination of sleeping and blowing off steam, then we hope you accomplish all your goals!

Either way: make it a wonderful weekend! Make some memories, make some connections, and remember: we’re always here for you!