50 Memorial Day Activities

Your kids can escape the sweltering heat with refreshing popsicles, and in red, white, and blue, of course. These frozen treats are the best dessert for Memorial Day, and they can be made in minutes. Hand them out, take pics, and create wonderful memories. 

Here’s a great example of a popsicle party from @katiejo_plusourtrio. 

Set up a table and let your toddlers engage in an artistic craft session. Supply them with red, blue, and white paints, and allow their creativity and self-expression to shine through. Let them craft symbols of gratitude to honor the fallen with these simple creations. 

Here’s a great example of home crafts from @a.dose.of.ot. 

Turn your kids’ faces into patriotic canvases with a lively face-painting session. This artistic activity is a great way to spark their imagination and promote self-expression. You can either go with the classic American flag, or you can let your kid pick the design.

Here’s a great example of face painting from @sandestin. 

Gather your little ones for a delightful backyard picnic surrounded by the colors of freedom — red, white, and blue. Keep the decorations classically American, dress them up in the colors of summer, and prepare delicious treats for the whole family to enjoy. 

Here’s a great example of a backyard picnic from @glass_alwaysfull. 

Your little ones will embark on a creative journey with this sketchbook. Artbooks and sketchbooks encourage the spirit of self-expression. As parents and toddlers come together to sketch and draw, you’ll have the opportunity to share stories about America, its history, and its values. 

You can buy it here from Amazon. 

Invite your little ones into the playful world of pinball painting. Pour red and blue colors into a clear bag, then add a pinball and seal it up. As they gently move the pinball, the colors will blend and swirl to create a unique painting. 

Here’s a great example of pinball painting from Kid Friendly Things To Do. 

Gear up for a day of sensory exploration with this playful activity. Take a couple of clear bags and fill each with different items such as sand, hardboard, sprinkles, etc. As your toddler wades through the bags, they’ll be introduced to a range of sensations that nurture their developing minds.

Here’s a great example of a sensory table from Toddler Approved. 

Dipping puppy chows in edible red and blue food dye is both a fun and delicious activity. It’s a great way to keep the little ones engaged throughout the day. As they dip each puppy chow in the dye, you can remind them of what the colors represent. And they’ll have a jolly time eating these treats too.

Here is a great example of red, white, and blue snacks from Belly Full.

Let your little ones march to the beat of unity and patriotism with their coordinated red, white, and blue outfits. Hand them flags and complete the look with matching white Converse. Watch as they echo the camaraderie of those who stand shoulder to shoulder to protect our freedoms. 

Here’s a great example of a patriotic dress-up from @shopoliviaj.

Passing down the skill of fishing to your children is a meaningful way to connect with them this Memorial Day. As you guide them through the fishing experience, you not only share a cherished pastime but also impart the valuable lesson that dedication and persistence are the keys to reaping life’s most meaningful rewards.

Here’s a great example of fishing from @farmhouseishhome.

Introduce the kids to a few documentaries about Memorial Day. “The Price of Freedom” (2015), “The Vietnam War” (2017), “The Unknowns” (2016), and “Restrepo” (2010) are some of the most educational and thoughtful short movies and docu-series that detail the reality of war.

Here’s a great representation of watching a documentary from Pexels. 

Unleash your preschoolers’ creativity with vibrant street chalk masterpieces that honor our veterans. Give them the red, white, and blue chalk to decorate the driveway with classic American slogans and tributes. This artistic activity is a great way to connect with our values and leave a colorful mark that shows their appreciation toward the veterans.

Here’s a great example of street chalk art from @asprinkleof.pink.

Set up an exciting water balloon battle in your backyard, and let your family dart, dodge, and splash their way through this lively activity. With every bursting balloon, they’ll enjoy the thrill of the moment while also learning valuable lessons in teamwork and camaraderie.

Here’s a great example of a water balloon fight from @healthybyheatherbrown.

Bring your preschoolers and their cousins together for a memorable cousin camp filled with games, crafts, and stories. Participate in activities designed to foster unity and teamwork, and engage in interactive storytelling that teaches them about the courage and sacrifices of veterans who’ve safeguarded our freedoms. 

Here’s a great example of cousin camping from @shana.hussin.rdn. 

Prepare care packages for the veterans and let your kids take the lead in this activity. Extend gratitude and comfort to those who continue to serve us by putting together a basket of thoughtful gifts. You’re not only offering physical items but also sending messages of support and tokens of appreciation. 

Here’s a great example of making care packages for troops from Pexels.

The poppy flower is a symbol of remembrance and hope. Give your kids a meaningful DIY project of making poppy pins with craft paper. Once done, they can wear them to honor the premise and central message of Memorial Day. 

Here’s a great example of a DIY poppy pin from Hey Let’s Make Stuff. 

Give your kids the gift of knowledge with a day at the local museum. As they explore the gallery, tell them stories of our nation’s history and the sacrifices made by our veterans. Answer their questions so that their young minds can absorb the little pockets of important U.S. history. 

Here’s a great example of a day at the museum from @meettheshannons. 

Spend time reading Memorial Day quotes that honor the soldiers who fought and gave their lives to our country, and that will teach them about the significance of the day. It’s a wonderful way to bond with them while instilling a sense of respect and appreciation. 

You can buy this Memorial Day book here from Amazon. 

At 3:00 PM local time, join your kids in the Memorial Day Minute of Silence. The moment reflects on the sacrifices made by military personnel and veterans, and is shared across the country. Once the moment passes, educate your kids about the importance of honoring the legacy of this tradition.

Here’s a great representation of observing a minute of silence from Pexels.

Mark the long weekend with a delicious dessert-making session. Pick a simple recipe that can be followed by your preschoolers, and allow them to take the lead. Parfaits, cherry pie, and pudding cups are some of your options. As you make the desserts, have discussions about Memorial Day’s significance.

Here’s a great example of an easy-to-make dessert from @thepreppyhostess. 

Embrace the spirit of patriotism by hoisting the American flag in your backyard. Raise the flag high and channel the privilege and pride of being an American. This is a meaningful way to commemorate and honor the sacrifices made by the fallen. 

Here’s a great example of a hoisted flag from @elevateetiquette.

Gather your friends and fellow patriots for an unforgettable American karaoke night. Sing your hearts out to Memorial Day tunes to celebrate our country’s heroes. It’s a beautiful, as well as fun way to pay tribute. 

Here’s a great example of an American karaoke night from @styled.for.fitness. 

Lace up your running shoes and join a spirited Memorial Day marathon with your friends and family. With spring still wrapping up, the final week of May is the perfect time to get a little active. More than winning, a marathon is all about the spirit of participation.

Here’s a great example of a Memorial Day marathon from @voteannavalencia. 

Take part in a spirited patriotic costume competition and pay homage to the characters from various U.S.-themed movies such as “Pearl Harbor,” “GI Jane,” “Top Gun,” etc. Dress up and strut with confidence as you show off your patriotic spirit.

Here’s a great example of a costume competition from @thevocalitas.

Mark Memorial Day and the “unofficial” start of the summer with a leisurely day at the lake. Bask in the sun and take a dip in the cool waters. From casting a fishing line to breaking bread with your loved ones, let every activity fill you with gratitude for the dedication of those who have served us and ensured the freedom and opportunities we enjoy today.

Here’s a great example of a day at the lake from @lyssacoulter. 

Let your nails do the patriotic talking with a Star-Spangled manicure. Paint them in vibrant red, white, and blue colors, and top your designs off with stars and stripes. Wear your patriotism with pride, as you gear up to honor those who died for our freedom.

Here’s a great example of a Star-Spangled manicure from @nailsbyallie418. 

As the Memorial Day weekend rolls in, participate in a bit of friendly, fun competition. Show-off your ramp walking skills, share stories of American womanhood, and wear the American flag with pride. It’s a lovely, lighthearted way to enjoy the spirit of the day. 

Here’s a great example of a pageant competition from @charliesbridalandprom. 

Every town and city in the country honors Memorial Day with local parades. Gather together with your community to appreciate the floats, marching bands, and patriotic displays. Take a moment to applaud the veterans and active-duty military personnel who proudly participate, while you honor the memory of those who have served. 

Here’s a great example of the local parade from @jeffnewcum. 

Crafting isn’t limited to preschoolers, right? Pick up some craft paper and make this homemade flag or any other DIY centerpiece of your choice. Once done, hang it in your living room, and let this be the center of attention for the evening. 

Here’s a great example of a patriotic craft from Pexels. 

This patriotic wreath is a sight to behold. Select the colors red, white, and blue, and try to replicate this to the best of your ability. Place the ribbon wreath on your doorstep, and it will warmly welcome everyone who visits your house.

Here’s a great example of a patriotic wreath from @wildaboutwreaths.

Celebrate American diversity with an all-American potluck. From savory quiche to sweet cinnamon rolls, America is the biggest melting point of diverse cultures from around the world. Just as soldiers from all the states come together to serve the military, make sure that the potluck features dishes from as many states as possible. 

Here’s a great representation of an all-American potluck from @cc_westfield. 

Get a taste of the American dream and cherish your unbound freedom as you embark on a voyage aboard a luxurious yacht with family and friends. While you’re sailing, reminisce about significant moments in U.S. war history, like the iconic Normandy landing that saved thousands of lives and changed the course of World War 2. 

Here’s a great example of a yacht trip from @sandylal. 

There’s no better way to honor the fallen than by embracing your role as an active and engaged citizen. So, seize the opportunity to make sure that your voice is heard by registering to vote. If you’re a registered voter, you can spend the day checking in with your friends and family and making sure they are registered as well. 

Here’s a great representation of being registered to vote from Pexels. 

If you’re fortunate enough to know a veteran, then Memorial Day is the perfect occasion to ring them up and thank them for their selfless service. Engage in a thoughtful conversation and allow them to share their experiences while serving in the U.S. military.

Here’s a great representation of phoning a veteran from Pexels.

The National Memorial Day Concert is performed in Washington, D.C., and is streamed on PBS. It is a wonderful 90-minute ceremony that honors the fallen. The concert includes performances by the National Symphony Orchestra, the U.S. Army Herald Trumpets, and the Armed Forces, making it a wonderful activity for Memorial Day.

Here’s a great example of the National Memorial Day concert from @ilpublicmedia.

This Memorial Day, take a couple of minutes to highlight veteran stories from your community on social media. You can also post messages and share first-hand accounts of their service. This will be an educational experience for you and your social media followers. 

Here’s a great example of the social media platforms you can post on from Pexels. 

War memorials serve as a reminder that American freedom comes at a price. This Memorial Day, take a solemn journey to a war memorial with wreaths, American flags, and fresh flowers, and pay homage to those who bravely defended our nation. 

Here’s a great example of visiting a war memorial from @coachcrayne27. 

Embody the spirit of service and give back to the country with a shift at the community center. Take up stitching, or donate to the local food banks. Service can happen in many shapes and forms, as long as you’re fostering meaningful connections and continuing the legacy of our veterans.

Here’s a great representation of volunteering at a community center from Pexels.

Experience the Memorial Day parade from wherever you are by streaming it at home. Find a comfortable spot, fire up the phone/tablet, and watch the great American tradition through a screen. You can also call up the other seniors and have a communal watching session. 

Here’s a great representation of watching the parade online from Pexels.

Let the seniors in your life take the lead for this backyard potluck that bridges the past and the present. Share family dishes and Memorial Day stories, and savor the unique flavor of a forgotten era, as meaningful connections bloom between different generations. 

This is a great example of a backyard potluck from @merrymaidsofficial. 

Embark on an exciting Scavenger Hunt with your grandkids. Set up Memorial Day-themed clues and uncover hidden “treasures.” Scavenger Hunts are all about teamwork and unity, and it’s a great way to bond, foster problem-solving skills, and connect with your family. 

Here’s a great example of a scavenger hunt from Pexels.

Transitioning from active duty to entrepreneurship is a brave step, and our veterans need the support of their community. Shop at a veteran-owned business to support those who’ve served our nation, and express your gratitude for their bravery.

Here’s a great representation of a small veteran business from Pexels.

Honor the fallen by planting a garden in their memory. Reserve a corner in your yard and plant and nurture a living memorial. Tending to the soil and nurturing new life is one of the most touching ways to remember those who fought and died for our country. 

Here’s a great representation of planting a memorial garden from Pexels. 

Take a hike through the War Memorial Park in Little Rock, Arkansas, or any other site dedicated to veterans. You can even enjoy a number of activities such as fishing and picnicking during your hike. An activity for the whole family, it’s a great way to observe Memorial Day.

Here’s a great example of a family hike from @terranovaplazachulavista. 

Gather your entire family for a mini marathon of your favorite Memorial Day movies. Films like “Top Gun” (1986), “War Horse” (2011), and “Men of Honor” (2000) come to mind, as they highlight the spirit of American perseverance and sacrifice. Pop the popcorn and dim the lights as you immerse yourselves in stories that honor the sacrifices made by the fallen. 

Here’s a great representation of watching a patriotic movie from Pexels. 

Invite your whole family together for an unforgettable All-American brunch. Decorate the table in Memorial Day colors and create a quintessentially American menu. As you savor the classics, take a minute to say grace and express your gratitude toward the countless sacrifices that the bravehearts have made. 

Here’s a great example of an all-American brunch from @suzannezinggstyle. 

Create everlasting memories with your family with a matching pajama party on Memorial Day. Gather around in coordinated outfits, share cookies and tea, and celebrate the traditions of unity that define family life in the U.S.

Here’s a great example of a matching pajama party from @sleepyheads_pajamas.

Gather your entire family for a delightful homemade cookie-baking session. From kneading the dough to mixing the ingredients and shaping the cookies, each family member has a role to play. This enjoyable activity unites generations in a sweet celebration of togetherness. 

Here’s a great example of baked cookies from @rosevillacookieco. 

While we remember the fallen troops, let’s also celebrate the more than 1.4 million active troops in service today. Connect with them through heartfelt letters, and share your appreciation and gratitude with them. Through these letters, we send messages of hope, strength, and camaraderie to those who continue to serve. 

Here’s a great representation of writing letters to the troops from Pexels. 

Pack up the family and head on a cross-country road trip, with stop stations at various war memorials in cities like Washington DC, McLean (VA), Grosse Pointe Farms (MI), and King of Prussia (PA). Reflect on the beauty of America, and pay your tribute to the heroes who have found a place in history through their valiant efforts. 

Here is a great example of a road trip from Pexels.