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Memorial Day 2020 celebrations will look a little different this year due to COVID-19. This holiday not only memorializes the brave men and women who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country, but it also typically kicks off the summer season with outdoor festivals and community gatherings.
During the current pandemic, we are forced to rethink our holiday plans. Dr. Fauci, Director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, does not recommend that we stay at home during the holiday weekend. However, “Americans are urged to use caution ahead of Memorial Day weekend.
With this in mind, here are (5) recommendations for celebrating this year’s holiday safely and responsibly.
Host a small cookout. Gas up the grill for an outdoor barbeque with the members of your immediate household. Set up a few fun games such as checkers, Uno, Frisbee, or horseshoes to play with family members. Have an American flag face painting session to commemorate the holiday.
Attend a virtual Memorial Day concert and parade. Even though the 2020 National Day Parade in Washington, D.C. has been canceled, you can watch a pre-recorded special titled “The National Memorial Day Parade: America Stands Tall.” This program will broadcast nationwide on Memorial Day. You can also can watch the National Memorial Day Concert on Sunday May 24th at 8 p.m. on PBS. This special will feature tributes to honor America’s troops and our veterans.
Camp out in your backyard. Stay local and explore the outdoors of your home. Set up a tent and a few comfortable sleeping bags to create a camping adventure. You can also start a campfire and roast marshmallows. To add extra fun, put together a scavenger hunt, and don’t forget to provide prizes for the winners.
Explore the outdoors. Grab your bike or hiking shoes and visit a nearby state park. You may find local parks and trails that are open and easy to explore while maintaining social distancing. Be sure to visit National Park Service to learn which parks are open in your state.
Honor our fallen heroes. Visit the memorial sites of those in your life who passed on while fighting for our country or others who served and lost their lives. Pay tribute by delivering flowers or by sharing the story of the fallen soldiers. Be sure to also participate in the National Moment of Remembrance which requires that we pause for 1 minute in an act of national unity at 3 PM local time on Memorial Day.
Whatever you decide to do this year to honor Memorial Day, please be safe and practice social distancing.
