As a family honoring a fallen soldier, we typically adorn our home with DIY patriotic decorations during Memorial Day Weekend. This heartfelt tribute is often accompanied by a selection of military-themed films; timeless classics like *Saving Private Ryan*, *Lone Survivor*, and *Last Flag Flying* are staples in our viewing lineup. On the final day of this solemn weekend, we take part in a wreath-laying ceremony at a National Memorial Cemetery, reflecting on the sacrifices made by servicemen.
Regardless of how you choose to observe May 29th for Memorial Day, it’s essential to focus on remembering those who gave their lives for our nation’s peace. This weekend also offers a wonderful opportunity to kick off your summer activities, whether that involves hosting a barbecue, embarking on a family camping trip, or decorating your outdoor space with Memorial Day-themed décor, all of which can foster lasting memories.
If you’re searching for unique activities to engage your family during the Memorial Day weekend in 2023, you’ve come to the right place. There’s a wealth of family-friendly activities to consider this year. For those blessed with musical talents, gathering in your backyard to sing patriotic songs while displaying American flags can deepen your family’s connection to this significant day.
Feel free to select from the array of Memorial Day activities listed below and organize them to fit your family’s schedule over the three-day weekend.
### 1. Attend a Memorial Day Concert
Joining a Memorial Day concert with your family is a meaningful way to honor the memories of combat veterans who sacrificed their lives. Across the United States, numerous music festivals take place during Memorial Day weekend, but attending one at the US Capitol in Washington, D.C., is particularly special. This event is free and accessible to the public, requiring no tickets.
While many Memorial Day concerts are complimentary, events like the Burnside Memorial Day Concert and the Virginia Beach Memorial Day Weekend Concert offer additional activities that make for an enjoyable outing.
### 2. Pay Respect at a Nearby National Cemetery
Wreath-laying ceremonies occur at various times based on each cemetery's schedule. If your family prefers to lay wreaths at the graves of US service members, locations such as Arlington National Cemetery, Jacksonville National Cemetery, and Houston National Cemetery provide meaningful opportunities for this tribute.
To help children appreciate the significance of wreath-laying on Memorial Day, consider sharing a brief history of the servicemen honored at these sites.
### 3. Watch Patriotic Videos in the Family Backyard
Watching patriotic films on Memorial Day serves not only as entertainment but also as a poignant reminder of the true history behind this holiday. While the news often highlights the brave sacrifices made by fallen heroes, curating a selection of patriotic films to enjoy with family is a wonderful way to commemorate the occasion.
Consider including films like *Apocalypse Now*, which showcases the realities of the Vietnam War, along with *Black Hawk Down* and *Born on the Fourth of July* in your viewing lineup.
### 4. Observe the National Moment of Remembrance
This annual event was established to remind Americans of the sacrifices made by those in uniform. While enjoying your Memorial Day meal, encourage your family to stand at 3:00 PM local time and pause for a moment of silence in honor of the fallen servicemen of the United States.
Alternatively, you could reflect on the sacrifices depicted in the *Faces of Sacrifice* project while observing this moment of remembrance.
### 5. Participate in Memorial Day Cemetery Decorations
One of the most heartfelt ways to honor servicemen who died for the freedoms we cherish is by decorating their graves on Memorial Day. There are numerous cost-effective ways to beautify gravesites, such as placing freshly cut flowers in front of the headstone and arranging floral cemetery candles around the grave, creating a touching tribute.
Consider adding cemetery flags, personalized vases, solar lights, and special mementos to enhance the decor on a soldier’s grave.
### 6. Watch Memorial Day Parades
Hosting a family gathering to watch Memorial Day parades broadcast live on television is a wonderful way to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in service. Many parades attract large crowds, with some expecting over 200,000 attendees, making it a great opportunity to be part of the spectacle.
You could embark on a trip to Washington, D.C. for the National Memorial Day Parade, or visit Queens, NY for the Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade. However, you’re not limited to these major events; many local Memorial Day parades also offer enjoyable experiences.
### 7. Spend Memorial Day Making Memorial Art
Creating Memorial Day-themed art can take many forms, as long as it reflects the red, white, and blue colors that symbolize the United States flag. Engaging in patriotic art projects alongside family members can transform the three-day weekend into a memorable experience.
Consider crafting a large DIY army wreath, patriotic Jason bar lanterns, or pinwheels—activities that invite participation from every family member. Plan to undertake these creative endeavors outdoors, allowing everyone to contribute.
### 8. Make Donations to the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation
Imagine the impact of helping the child of a fallen service member achieve their educational goals. Just as a fallen soldier might have saved for their children’s future, you can share your resources with the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation. Encouraging your family to donate during Memorial Day weekend is a meaningful way to honor the sacrifices made by military personnel.
Your contributions can make a significant difference for the families of fallen heroes. Additionally, shopping for products through the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation website is another way to commemorate the day.
### 9. Watch Memorial Day Videos
With numerous short Memorial Day videos available across various channels and e-commerce platforms like Amazon and eBay, compiling a list of family-friendly options is a great idea. Movies such as *Why Do We Celebrate Memorial Day?*, *My America the Beautiful*, and *Memorial Day Tribute* are perfect selections for viewing.
You can also choose to stream these videos live through a suitable streaming service tailored to your family’s preferences.
### 10. Memorial Day Outdoor Decorations
Dedicate some time on May 27th and 28th to create DIY patriotic art and purchase additional outdoor decorations for Memorial Day. Then, gather as a family on May 29th to decorate your outdoor space together. This shared experience will serve as a fitting tribute to the soldiers who fought for our nation’s peace.
Retailers like Party City, Amazon, Etsy, and Target offer a range of outdoor decorations perfect for this commemorative weekend.
### 11. Contribute to Veteran Charity Organizations
Organizations such as the Wounded Warrior Project, Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Charitable Service Trust, Charity Navigator, and Hope for the Warriors are reputable charities dedicated to supporting veterans and their families. Your generous contributions assist in funding programs and resources for those who have served our country.
You can contribute through various methods, including mailing donations, fundraising as a family, donating assets, or making online contributions.
### 12. Donate Memorial Day Wreaths for Soldiers' Graves
During Memorial Day Weekend visits to National Memorial Cemeteries, you’ll find wreaths and flowers available for placement at veterans' gravesites, made possible through donations. Organizations like the Memorial Day Flowers Foundation, Memorial Day Foundation, and Winchester National Cemetery welcome contributions, either through cash donations or mail.
### 13. Join Organizations That Build Homes for
As a family honoring a fallen soldier, we typically adorn our home with DIY patriotic decorations during Memorial Day Weekend. This heartfelt tribute is often accompanied by a selection of military-themed films; timeless classics like *Saving Private Ryan*, *Lone Survivor*, and *Last Flag Flying* are staples in our viewing lineup. On the final day of this solemn weekend, we take part in a wreath-laying ceremony at a National Memorial Cemetery, reflecting on the sacrifices made by servicemen.
Regardless of how you choose to observe May 29th for Memorial Day, it’s essential to focus on remembering those who gave their lives for our nation’s peace. This weekend also offers a wonderful opportunity to kick off your summer activities, whether that involves hosting a barbecue, embarking on a family camping trip, or decorating your outdoor space with Memorial Day-themed décor, all of which can foster lasting memories.
If you’re searching for unique activities to engage your family during the Memorial Day weekend in 2023, you’ve come to the right place. There’s a wealth of family-friendly activities to consider this year. For those blessed with musical talents, gathering in your backyard to sing patriotic songs while displaying American flags can deepen your family’s connection to this significant day.
Feel free to select from the array of Memorial Day activities listed below and organize them to fit your family’s schedule over the three-day weekend.
### 1. Attend a Memorial Day Concert
Joining a Memorial Day concert with your family is a meaningful way to honor the memories of combat veterans who sacrificed their lives. Across the United States, numerous music festivals take place during Memorial Day weekend, but attending one at the US Capitol in Washington, D.C., is particularly special. This event is free and accessible to the public, requiring no tickets.
While many Memorial Day concerts are complimentary, events like the Burnside Memorial Day Concert and the Virginia Beach Memorial Day Weekend Concert offer additional activities that make for an enjoyable outing.
### 2. Pay Respect at a Nearby National Cemetery
Wreath-laying ceremonies occur at various times based on each cemetery's schedule. If your family prefers to lay wreaths at the graves of US service members, locations such as Arlington National Cemetery, Jacksonville National Cemetery, and Houston National Cemetery provide meaningful opportunities for this tribute.
To help children appreciate the significance of wreath-laying on Memorial Day, consider sharing a brief history of the servicemen honored at these sites.
### 3. Watch Patriotic Videos in the Family Backyard
Watching patriotic films on Memorial Day serves not only as entertainment but also as a poignant reminder of the true history behind this holiday. While the news often highlights the brave sacrifices made by fallen heroes, curating a selection of patriotic films to enjoy with family is a wonderful way to commemorate the occasion.
Consider including films like *Apocalypse Now*, which showcases the realities of the Vietnam War, along with *Black Hawk Down* and *Born on the Fourth of July* in your viewing lineup.
### 4. Observe the National Moment of Remembrance
This annual event was established to remind Americans of the sacrifices made by those in uniform. While enjoying your Memorial Day meal, encourage your family to stand at 3:00 PM local time and pause for a moment of silence in honor of the fallen servicemen of the United States.
Alternatively, you could reflect on the sacrifices depicted in the *Faces of Sacrifice* project while observing this moment of remembrance.
### 5. Participate in Memorial Day Cemetery Decorations
One of the most heartfelt ways to honor servicemen who died for the freedoms we cherish is by decorating their graves on Memorial Day. There are numerous cost-effective ways to beautify gravesites, such as placing freshly cut flowers in front of the headstone and arranging floral cemetery candles around the grave, creating a touching tribute.
Consider adding cemetery flags, personalized vases, solar lights, and special mementos to enhance the decor on a soldier’s grave.
### 6. Watch Memorial Day Parades
Hosting a family gathering to watch Memorial Day parades broadcast live on television is a wonderful way to pay tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives in service. Many parades attract large crowds, with some expecting over 200,000 attendees, making it a great opportunity to be part of the spectacle.
You could embark on a trip to Washington, D.C. for the National Memorial Day Parade, or visit Queens, NY for the Neck-Douglaston Memorial Day Parade. However, you’re not limited to these major events; many local Memorial Day parades also offer enjoyable experiences.
### 7. Spend Memorial Day Making Memorial Art
Creating Memorial Day-themed art can take many forms, as long as it reflects the red, white, and blue colors that symbolize the United States flag. Engaging in patriotic art projects alongside family members can transform the three-day weekend into a memorable experience.
Consider crafting a large DIY army wreath, patriotic Jason bar lanterns, or pinwheels—activities that invite participation from every family member. Plan to undertake these creative endeavors outdoors, allowing everyone to contribute.
### 8. Make Donations to the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation
Imagine the impact of helping the child of a fallen service member achieve their educational goals. Just as a fallen soldier might have saved for their children’s future, you can share your resources with the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation. Encouraging your family to donate during Memorial Day weekend is a meaningful way to honor the sacrifices made by military personnel.
Your contributions can make a significant difference for the families of fallen heroes. Additionally, shopping for products through the Children of Fallen Patriots Foundation website is another way to commemorate the day.
### 9. Watch Memorial Day Videos
With numerous short Memorial Day videos available across various channels and e-commerce platforms like Amazon and eBay, compiling a list of family-friendly options is a great idea. Movies such as *Why Do We Celebrate Memorial Day?*, *My America the Beautiful*, and *Memorial Day Tribute* are perfect selections for viewing.
You can also choose to stream these videos live through a suitable streaming service tailored to your family’s preferences.
### 10. Memorial Day Outdoor Decorations
Dedicate some time on May 27th and 28th to create DIY patriotic art and purchase additional outdoor decorations for Memorial Day. Then, gather as a family on May 29th to decorate your outdoor space together. This shared experience will serve as a fitting tribute to the soldiers who fought for our nation’s peace.
Retailers like Party City, Amazon, Etsy, and Target offer a range of outdoor decorations perfect for this commemorative weekend.
### 11. Contribute to Veteran Charity Organizations
Organizations such as the Wounded Warrior Project, Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Charitable Service Trust, Charity Navigator, and Hope for the Warriors are reputable charities dedicated to supporting veterans and their families. Your generous contributions assist in funding programs and resources for those who have served our country.
You can contribute through various methods, including mailing donations, fundraising as a family, donating assets, or making online contributions.
### 12. Donate Memorial Day Wreaths for Soldiers' Graves
During Memorial Day Weekend visits to National Memorial Cemeteries, you’ll find wreaths and flowers available for placement at veterans' gravesites, made possible through donations. Organizations like the Memorial Day Flowers Foundation, Memorial Day Foundation, and Winchester National Cemetery welcome contributions, either through cash donations or mail.
### 13. Join Organizations That Build Homes for
