Memorial Day is just right around the corner and did you know that Memorial Day was originally called Decoration Day? The holiday, which is currently observed every year on the last Monday of May, originated as Decoration Day after the American Civil War in 1868, when the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization of Union veterans founded in Decatur, Illinois, established it as a time for the nation to decorate the graves of the Union war dead with flowers. By the 20th century, competing Union and Confederate holiday traditions, celebrated on different days, had merged, and Memorial Day eventually extended to honor all Americans who died while in the military service. Memorial day marks the start of the unofficial summer vacation season, while Labor Day marks its end.
Summer brings so many fun times, kids out of school, vacations, extra time, barbecues, pool time, and the list goes on. Sometimes, it’s hard to decide what to do so here are some fun, inexpensive, ideas to help start your summer off right.
Hide a treasure – National Scavenger Hunt Day is on May 24th – a great time to have a scavenger hunt – Scatter Memorial day themed cups, utensils, ribbons, and bows around the yard for the kids to find.
Plan a picnic – Keep it simple, pack some food, find a shady area and bring some outdoor toys for the kids. Relax, play catch and let the kids run around while you relax
Do a family movie night – Rent a new release, plan some fun snacks and spread out a blanket for everyone to have a seat.
Build a fort either inside or out – If you do it outside, do some star gazing as well. Children, and most adults, never get tired of forts and it is fun to plan a meal or activity inside the fort after it is done.
Plan some fun barbecues with the family and friends – Have everyone bring something and bring out some of those summer salad and barbecue recipes that you haven’t used for a while.
Enjoy local attractions – Spend “tourist time” together within a day’s drive. Pick one or two sites to see; they don’t have to be far from home. Call the adventure a staycation. The best part of your except is everyone gets to sleep in their own bed.
Find a parade – Every town has a parade within driving distance around Memorial Day. Take your chairs, and enjoy waving to the veterans.
There are so many things to do during summer break. Sit down and do some planning and then enjoy every minute.