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Memorial Day Weekend, the Unofficial Start of Summer, is Just Around the Corner

Typically known as one of the busiest travel weekends of the year as well as the unofficial start of the summer season, it may have you wondering how you will be spending your three-day weekend this year.

The Real Meaning of Memorial Day

While visions of summertime fun may be in your head, it’s important not to forget the real meaning of this American holiday; to honor the brave men and women who lost their lives defending our country. If you’re wondering how you can show your respect to our fallen heroes, here are some suggestions:

• Visit a cemetery and place flags or flowers on the graves of fallen military heroes 
• Visit a war memorial either in person or virtually if there isn’t one close to you 
• Display the American flag, but be sure to follow proper flag etiquette 
• Donate time or money to a nonprofit veteran support organization 
• Observe a moment of silence, which is nationwide at 3 pm each year 
• Enjoy the annual National Memorial Day Concert virtually

Vacation or Staycation. How Will You be Spending Memorial Day Weekend?

 Whether vacationing or staycationing, here are some things you and your family can do during Memorial Weekend:

• Check local listing for parades; both virtual and live  
• Visit a National Park and have a picnic with the family
• Set up an outdoor movie area in your backyard and invite family or good friends 
• Travel and road trips are popular due to the three-day weekend. If you plan on traveling, check for any changes to hours or rules your destination may have.  The Roadtrippers is a helpful website that lets you enter your destination, and it will show you popular spots along the way, guides on where to stop and visit, as well as nearby hotels
• Having a staycation instead? Enjoy yourselves with BBQs and backyard events. Add some red, white, and blue decor and even patriotic colored desserts (cakes, berries & vanilla ice cream). Include seasonal foods and drinks like watermelon, grilled hamburgers and hotdogs, lemonade, or maybe a beer or margarita. 

This Memorial Day Weekend, you can both honor our fallen heroes and enjoy traditional fun events.