Best Ways to Spend Memorial Day at Home

American FlagWith the unofficial kick-off to summer, AAA expects more than 38 million Americans travel this Memorial Day weekend. But if you’re not on train, plane or in an automobile, you can still celebrate a three-day weekend. Here are 5 ideas on how to spend Memorial Day at home.

Memorial Day Ceremonies

Though a lot of Americans see it as a mini-vacation, Memorial Day is steeped in tradition — it was originally a day dedicated to honor fallen soldiers. Around the country, ceremonies are held each Memorial Day to pay tribute to US service men and women who died in the line of duty. At Arlington National Cemetery in Washington D.C., there is a remembrance ceremony planned – about 5,000 visitors are expected to attend. You don’t have to travel all the way to Washington D.C. to pay tribute; there are ceremonies in almost every state in the Union.

American FlagsParade

If you can’t get to a ceremony, you can always try to get to a parade. Parades for Memorial Day have been a tradition for more than a century – the town of Ironton, OH claims to have the oldest and longest running parade in the nation – it started in 1868. In New York City, more than one parade is held around the five boroughs and each one will be flooded with Sailors, Marines and Coastguardsmen as the holiday coincides with Fleet Week. The Chicago Memorial Day Parade and the National Memorial Day Parade are the largest Memorial Day events in the country.

Outdoor Concert

Symphonies across the Nation have special outdoor concerts planned to recognize Memorial Day. In Kansas City, Missouri, the Kansas City Symphony performs patriotic melodies on Sunday evening with a fireworks display behind Union Station. A similar concert is put on by the Dallas Symphony on Monday night and the Florida Orchestra is performing American classics and marches all weekend from Tampa to Clearwater.

The Lighter Side of the Weekend

BurgerCookout

It’s a no-brainer. You have an extra day to spend with all your friends and family who didn’t leave town, hosting a barbecue in your back yard is a perfect way to use the day. It’s a great time to enjoy spring’s bounty, the sunshine and good company over burgers. It doesn’t have to break the bank – make it a potluck event and have everyone bring what they make best. Revel in the long weekend.

Baseball

Whether you’re in a big city that has two professional baseball teams or you’re in a small town with a little league, nothing feels like spring like a good ball game outside. It’s an excellent family event where everyone can take in the sunshine while eating a hot dog.

Whether you attend a parade to salute soldiers or you spend the weekend relaxing with family over hot dogs, there’s no wrong way to celebrate the holiday. Enjoy your Memorial Day!

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