Memorial Day was first observed in 1868 to commemorate the sacrifices of Civil War soldiers. Known as a day of remembrance and appreciation honoring those who have served and sacrificed their lives for our country, Memorial Day became a federal holiday in 1971.
Here are some of our favorite ways to observe with family.
Watch the National Memorial Day Concert
Hosted by PBS, this community of support for our troops has become an American tradition honoring our country’s veterans, service men and women and military families. Featuring musical performances, inspirational stories of our nation’s military history, plus a host of celebs to help the nation observe this important day. The National Memorial Day Concert will be broadcast on Sunday, May 29, 2022. Check your local listings to watch on PBS or go to the concert website to stream.
Pay tribute to Veterans
Letters and drawings from kids will lift anyone’s spirits. Make it extra special by sending a note of thanks and gratitude to someone for protecting our freedoms. If you don’t know anyone in the armed forces, organizations like Operation Gratitude and A Million Thanks make it easy for kids to send letters to deployed troops, wounded warriors and veterans. What a wonderful lesson in giving back. (Credit: Parents-together.org)
Attend your local Memorial Day Parade
Most towns across America have these hyper local (and super fun) way to honor service men and women from conflicts both in the distant past and more recent. Stake out a seat on the route, grab your American flag and cheer as patriotic floats, the local high school marching band, various sports teams and well-known local figures walk and ride by, often in really cool antique convertibles. Don’t miss the free hot dogs at the fire station…
Learn the proper way to fold an American flag
A great hands-on history lesson for the entire family. There are 13 folds in a properly folded American flag, each with a distinct history and symbolism. The flag is then folded in a triangle to resemble a tri-cornered hat like the ones worn by George Washington and soldiers during the Revolutionary War and is always presented with a star facing up.
Do a patriotic craft
As you fire up the grill to observe this national holiday, have your kids create patriotic craft decorations. Ideas include: Red, white & blue beaded garlands. A patriotic painted flower pot. Create American flag stars on the ground with grass-friendly spray paint and a DIY star stencil.
Memorial Day is the official start of the summer season. As you take this party outside, here are some fresh ideas to do it right.
America is all in for Adirondacks! The most classic and modern outdoor chair there is, just in time for the holiday in blue and white. Trending from traditionally styled to a more modern vibe with angular slats. Ours also come in a roomy rocker with extra space for a pillow or throw to complete the look. Perfect for this patriotic holiday and many more.
Lighting the way to great entertaining are solar powered landscape and pathway lights. Easy to install and the perfect way to light up the night.
Whether the holiday observance is around the pool or inside, Merrick Lane has you covered. Continuing with our patriotic theme, check out these umbrellas and barstools to keep the Memorial Day theme going strong, rain or shine.
More blue…These classic navy sling style patio lounge chairs will coordinate with many table styles and are both comfortable and lightweight.