Memorial Day, also known as Decoration Day, is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the more than 1.2 million Americans who have died while serving in the country’s armed forces, starting with the Civil War. Previously observed on May 30 from 1868 to 1970, this national holiday is now celebrated on the last Monday in May every year and is the one annual holiday for honoring fallen American veterans. This holiday marks the unofficial start of summer and is responsible for the firing up of outdoor and indoor barbeque grills across the country. Families gather for the first big event of the summer, break out the patriotic décor for your home, and take time to cherish their family, friends, and freedom.
How will you decorate for your Memorial Day cookout this year? Will you festoon the front porch with weather resistant flag bunting, decorate the doorstep with a matching flag bunting coir doormat, or hang a heart-shaped red white and blue wooden wreath on the front door? If the rustic look is more your style, a decorative weather resistant metal patriotic barn star, American flag wooden cross, or heartwarming America hanging sign might be your decoration of choice.
To help celebrate spring and the onset of summer, many people plant colorful flowers around the entrance to their homes, in window boxes, or in a backyard flower garden. Even if you don’t have a green thumb, you can decorate your entry with some patriotic flower spinners or pick up some small red, white, and blue potted plants at your local grocery or home goods store and strategically place them in patriotic teacup flower pots to add a pop of patriotic color to your backyard barbeque.
A festive table always adds to the fun of any family gathering, and Memorial Day cookouts are no exception. From patriotic platters for fresh fruit, colorful veggies, or crunchy chips and dip to diecut patriotic table runners and Americana coasters, there are any number of ways to dress up your table and say “I Love America” this Memorial Day. For the kid’s table, adding a pair of flag wearing mini patriotic Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse figurines will increase their enjoyment of this special day while adding their own special elements of color and smiles to the decor.
If you have family members of active duty military or relatives of fallen veterans in your church or neighborhood, consider extending an invitation to join you for your Memorial Day celebration. Check with your pastor, local community center, military installation, or veteran’s organization in your area for information on military families in your city. Asking a military family to join in your Memorial Day celebration is a great way to show your appreciation for their loved one’s service.
