If you’re not sure what to do Memorial Day weekend and you’re staying in town this year, this list is for you! From relaxing to active, there’s something for everyone.

In the US, we often think of Memorial Day as a long weekend that ushers in summer. It’s a three-day weekend to either head out of town for a quick getaway or stick around and spend quality time with friends and family.

While Memorial Day is a special time of year for all the above, it’s also important to consider the true meaning of the holiday. Memorial Day is a day put aside to recognize and remember those in the military who sacrificed their lives serving our country.

So let’s look at what to do Memorial Day weekend if you’re staying home. As you enjoy planning fun activities for the three-day weekend, take a moment to remember the fallen soldiers who sacrificed their lives so you can enjoy such blessings.

We’ll look at activities that encourage quality time with family and a few that celebrate the true meaning of the holiday. Check out the list below.

Best things to do Memorial Day Weekend when Staying in Town

1. BBQ or Cookout

This one’s a longstanding tradition for many Americans, so gather family and friends and grill up some chicken or steak in a backyard barbeque. Consider making it a potluck and have everyone bring their favorite side dish. Turn on some music, get out the cornhole boards, and go for a swim if you have a pool.

Continue the BBQ into the evening. Roast some marshmallows and tell stories around the fire pit. You’ll find a backyard cookout is a great way to spend quality time and create memories with your favorite people on Memorial Day.

2. Attend a Memorial Day Event in Your Area

Check for events in your local town or nearby city as many host Memorial Day ceremonies or parades. If you check ahead of time, you may be able to volunteer at the events.

Other fun local events to look out for include concerts, 5k runs, or even the occasional pancake breakfast. Take a peek at what’s going on in your area.

3. Head Out to the Farm

Some local farms have a lot to offer visitors. You can often view or even interact with farm animals, which is a hit amongst children. Some have little train rides or play areas for kids or kids at heart. Picking produce is a great way to enjoy farm fresh fruits and veggies and is a fun opportunity for children to learn where their food comes from.

Also, some farms have stores where you can pick up tasty sauces and sweet jams. They may even serve fresh baked goods or full meals. You might even find little shops with handmade crafts and décor to take home for that redecorating project we’ll talk about next.

4. DIY Home Project

Is there a space inside your home that could use a facelift? If a small bathroom needs new flooring or you like to build a garden bed or new shelf, Youtube has some great instructional videos. Does your pantry need some reorganizing or couldyour guest room use a little redecorating? Consider jumping on Pinterest for endless fun ideas.

If possible, get the whole family involved. Turn on some peppy music and get out the snacks to keep everyone energized. Order some pizza or head out to dinner as a little reward when the project is complete.

5. Watch a Movie

Grab the popcorn and watch a movie this holiday weekend.

If you feel like heading out to the theater for a movie, consider upgrading to the large, reclining seats for extra comfort. Some locations even offer in-theater food and beverage service if you don’t feel like waiting in line for those tasty treats and sodas.

Another option is sprawling out on the comfort of your own cozy couch and streaming a movie of your choosing. You can even make it a movie marathon if you’re in need of a lazy day off.

Also, in thinking about the true meaning of the holiday, consider a movie that honors those that gave their lives for our freedom. There’s a lot to choose from!

6. Board or Card Games

When was the last time you played a card or board game? I don’t know about you, but we always end up in stiches, laughing it up with good friends and family when we engage in a little friendly competition. Sit around the table, enjoy a tasty beverage and pull out the snacks to add to the fun.  

7. Spend a Day at the Park

Head to the park for a fun and relaxing day. Bring the football or baseball for a leisurely game of catch. Try your hand at flying a kite or play a game of pig or horse with the basketball. Perhaps your local park has some trails to enjoy a bike ride or a nice walk for some light exercise. Consider packing up the picnic basket or cooler with everyone’s favorite sandwiches to enjoy a nice lunch with the family.

8. Decorate the Graves of Veterans for Memorial Day

The first Memorial Day was just after the Civil War. It was originally called Decoration Day and the tradition was to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers. This is something many still do today.

So, consider celebrating Memorial Day this year by taking part in this special and important tradition, decorating a veteran’s grave with a flag and/or flowers. You can take flowers to the grave of a loved one or even honor soldier you do not know. Click here for more information on protocols for properly placing a flag and more.

Thank you for taking the time to check out our list about what to do when staying home Memorial Day weekend. Which one will you try? Let me know in the comments below!

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