You’ve been itching for a break and now it’s arrived – Memorial Day weekend – the unofficial start to summer. More than just a three-day weekend, it’s a day of remembrance for those brave soldiers who fought to protect the freedoms we enjoy today.
That said, there’s no better time than Memorial Day weekend to enjoy the freedom of the great outdoors! If you’re planning on enjoying a little fun in the sun beachside or at a local pool with friends and family, here are a few tips to help get the celebration started!
1. Be Sun Smart
Stock up on the sunscreen, hats, and umbrellas. Providing your kiddos, guests, or friends with sun protection is an awesome gesture that’s sure to be appreciated and doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. You can’t go wrong with SPF 30, but for your fairer-skinned friends or outdoor parties where the sun is especially intense, lather on SPF 50 to be safe.
2. Don’t Stress Over a Schedule
Most likely, your friends and family have a variety of projects to tackle or plans scheduled over the holiday weekend. Don’t fret too much over your guest list, and don’t schedule activities for the second your guests arrive – everyone needs a little time to unwind. Instead, leave plenty of time for relaxing.
3. Plan Group Activities
Don’t worry about doing all the entertaining, but do have a few games or toys in your bag-of-tricks. Heading to the beach with the whole family? Tote along bocce, a volleyball, or a badminton set. Hosting a small gathering of friends lakeside? Invest in a travel corn-hole set. Taking the kids to the local pool? Bring goggles, pool toys, and noodles.
4. Bounce, Bounce
Once your guests are starting to shrivel from hours of Marco Polo, usher them into the backyard for some drier fun. Bounce houses and slides are sure to entertain youngsters into the evening, giving you time to prep the grill. Most party Inflatable Rental Companies deliver, set up, sanitize, and break down their equipment. The only thing you’re required to do is pick the perfect spot. To check out more outdoor party entertainment options, visit GigSalad!
5. Honor Our Heroes
Give your guests a Memorial Day history lesson by booking a Patriotic Entertainer, Civil War Reenactment, or Storyteller to speak or perform at your backyard bash. Veterans or those with loved ones who are currently serving overseas will appreciate the effort, and your youngsters may learn something new.
6. Host a Great American Beach Party
If you’re the kind of host whose idea of a party isn’t complete without a live performance, consider organizing a coastal Pig Roast or luau with a group of friends, complete with a Rock Band, a sand-sculpting contest, and fireworks. Ask guests to wear red, white, and blue ensembles, and each bring an item to grill. Other suitable musical options, whether you’re hosting a shore-side luau or not, include Zydeco Bands and Classic Rock Bands.
While a lively pool or beachside gathering makes for a pleasurable Memorial Day, remember that we can delight in the first rush of summer thanks to the bravery of those we honor over the holiday weekend. So when you’re enjoying a round of drinks with your friends, raise your glass to the history of Memorial Day.