Memorial Day became an official holiday in 1971 and celebrates U.S. military members that have given their lives to fight for our freedom. It is also generally thought of as the start of summer. Besides the traditional cook-outs and fireworks, see what else you can do for the holiday:

• On Memorial Day Eve (5/26/19 at 8 pm EST on PBS), check out the national concert. You can expect to see performances, watch documentaries, and hear stories about honoring the military

• Organize a “thank you” letter event from the children in your neighborhood. Check out A Million Thanks for more information

• Send a care package from Operation Gratitude

• Honor the veteran in your life with a patriotic dish

• Listen to veterans share their stories on StoryCorps

• Participate in the 1 minute National Moment of Silence which happens at 3 pm in your time zone

• Donate or sponsor flowers to a veteran cemetery near you

• Show your support by going to a parade

• Donate to a local veterans hospital or organization

• Download this list of patriotic songs for your party

• Organize a neighborhood event and charge an entry fee and/or have raffled items. Donate all proceeds to a military organization

• Visit a historical military museum

Don’t forget to let us know if you need help with any planning or researching any of the above activities!