Best Things to Do on Memorial Day 2025: Celebrate with Purpose and Meaning

Things to do on Memorial Day is much more than backyard barbecues or store sales.

Celebrated on the last Monday of May, this national holiday offers a special opportunity for Americans to pause, reflect, and pay tribute to the men and women of the Armed Forces who gave their lives for freedom.

As Memorial Day 2025 approaches, it is important to understand the history behind the date and also embrace the most meaningful ways to commemorate it.

From visiting historic monuments to participating in community events, there are many ways to connect with the true spirit of this holiday.

Whether you are a history enthusiast, your family is looking for a weekend outing, or you wish to honor veterans in a unique way, there are enriching activities to do on Memorial Day beyond all the tradition.

Here we present a comprehensive overview of the origins of Memorial Day, along with a special curation of activity suggestions to inspire you to live this date with more purpose.

By taking part in tributes, connecting with the community, or enjoying nature, our suggestions are designed to keep alive the essence of the holiday — a time of respect, reflection, and gratitude.

Understand the Origin of Memorial Day

The history of Memorial Day began shortly after the American Civil War, one of the most devastating conflicts in the country’s history.

Originally called “Decoration Day,” the holiday was established in 1868 by General John A. Logan of the Grand Army of the Republic as a moment when the nation should decorate the graves of Union soldiers with flowers.

The chosen date, May 30th, did not refer to any specific battle, reinforcing the national character of the tribute.

Over the decades, Memorial Day evolved to honor all Americans who died in military service, not just those of the Civil War.

After World War I, the commemoration expanded to include the fallen from all conflicts. In 1971, the United States Congress made Memorial Day a national holiday, fixing its celebration on the last Monday of May, thus creating the famous “long weekend.”

Today, Memorial Day is one of the most respected holidays on the American calendar. It represents not only the remembrance of those who have passed but a national moment of unity around values such as courage, sacrifice, citizenship, and freedom.

Behind beach trips and family barbecues, Memorial Day remains a deeply sacred moment.

It is a day when the country collectively honors, remembers, and gives thanks for the sacrifice of over a million military personnel who died defending the United States.

Understanding this legacy makes Memorial Day 2025 even more meaningful, and every tribute takes on new significance. Honoring those who have passed is also reaffirming the commitment to the ideals they defended until the end.

Things to Do on Memorial Day

When we think of things to do on Memorial Day, the possibilities are diverse, combining reverence, celebration, and community involvement.

While some people choose moments of introspection at military cemeteries or war memorials, others participate in parades, concerts, or charity events that keep the true purpose of the holiday alive.

These activities recover the symbolism of the date, as well as help create meaningful family memories. It is possible to balance leisure and rest with gestures of respect and solidarity, turning the day into a journey of learning and human connection.

In cities like Washington, D.C., grand events such as the National Memorial Day Concert and the Rolling Thunder motorcycle parade attract visitors from across the country. In small towns, local parades and community gatherings hold the same emotional weight.

If you’re looking for inspiration, you’ll find varied suggestions here, each designed for you to honor past heroes and inspire future generations.

Visit the Iwo Jima Memorial

One of the most impactful experiences is visiting the Marine Corps War Memorial, known as the Iwo Jima Memorial. Located near Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia, the monument honors Marines who have lost their lives since 1775.

The iconic image of six Marines raising the United States flag at Iwo Jima is much more than a sculpture — it is a symbol of courage, unity, and sacrifice.

Every year, flowers are laid at its base, veterans share their stories, and families pay tribute to their loved ones. The site also offers a privileged view of Washington, D.C., and an atmosphere of silent respect.

On Memorial Day 2025, participate in wreath-laying ceremonies or schedule a guided tour to learn more about the history of the Marines. For more information, visit the official National Park Service website.

Take a Walk in a National Park

The Memorial Day weekend is also ideal for enjoying the natural beauty of the U.S. national parks. What many don’t know is that some of these parks were historic battlefields, such as Gettysburg or Antietam. Besides the serene landscape, they offer a historical immersion.

Others prefer parks like Yosemite, Yellowstone, or the Smoky Mountains, perfect for a peaceful getaway. In these places, you can hike, camp, observe wildlife and flora, and disconnect from routine.

Nature provides an ideal setting to reflect on freedom and those who fought for it. Many parks host educational events on Memorial Day, such as lectures on the military history of the region or temporary exhibitions.

In many cases, the National Park Service waives entrance fees on Memorial Day, making the visit even more accessible. Check options on the official NPS website.

Donate Flowers to Soldiers’ Graves

One of the most emotional Memorial Day traditions is placing flowers on soldiers’ graves. This practice, originating on Decoration Day, is still widely observed across the country.

You can visit a nearby military cemetery and place flowers on graves, especially those that seem forgotten. Often, these graves belong to soldiers who left no family, and the simple act of remembering their existence is a gesture of enormous symbolic value.

Funds and organizations like the Memorial Day Flowers Foundation organize events nationwide for this purpose. It is a simple, silent, and profound way to participate.

Attend a Memorial Day Concert

The traditional National Memorial Day Concert, held on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol, is one of the most beautiful and symbolic celebrations of the date.

The event gathers military bands, renowned artists, and emotional testimonies, and is broadcast live across the country.

Performances include patriotic music, speeches from veterans and military family members, and moments of silence that unite millions of viewers in a single current of respect.

You can watch the concert in person or at home through the PBS broadcast. Many cities also organize outdoor musical events, so it’s worth checking the local calendar. This is an inspiring way to close the day, with music, memory, and patriotism.

Help with Care Packages for Soldiers

Another meaningful way to celebrate Memorial Day is by donating your time and resources to support those still serving. Assembling care kits for soldiers or veterans is a charitable action that brings comfort and gratitude to those far from home.

These packages can include hygiene items, non-perishable food, books, letters, and keepsakes made by children. The most important thing is the message of support and recognition contained in these gestures.

Organizations such as Operation Gratitude teach how to assemble these kits, including hygiene items, supportive messages, and keepsakes. Volunteering turns Memorial Day into an opportunity for real action and impact.

Make a Poppy for Memorial Day

The red poppy is one of the most powerful symbols of Memorial Day. Inspired by the poem “In Flanders Fields,” this flower represents the memory of soldiers who died in combat.

Creating a handmade poppy with your family or wearing a pin purchased from veterans’ organizations is a simple yet meaningful way to participate in the tradition.

It is also a perfect opportunity to involve children and explain the importance of Memorial Day in a sensitive and educational way. This is a great activity to teach children the value of remembrance and gratitude.

Participate in a Parade

Parades are one of the most beloved Memorial Day celebrations. Bringing together veterans, bands, scouts, and civic representatives, these events bring the community to the streets in a public and moving tribute.

Participating in a parade, whether watching or marching with an organization, reinforces a sense of belonging and mutual respect. Parades are often accompanied by speeches, historical reenactments, and special honors for local veterans.

Parades connect generations and reaffirm values of courage and service. Check if your city will hold a parade or take the opportunity to visit a nearby town and experience this moment alongside other patriots.

Make Desserts for Other Families

Memorial Day is also an occasion to practice acts of kindness. Preparing and sharing desserts with military families, veteran neighbors, or community members is a sweet way to spread gratitude.

Besides fostering moments of affection and conversation, this gesture strengthens community bonds. Receiving a lovingly made treat in honor of a deceased loved one can be comforting and symbolic.

This act turns the celebration into a moment of unity and mutual care. With Memorial Day 2025 approaching, take the chance to revive the true spirit of this holiday.

More than a day of rest, it is an invitation to memory, gratitude, and action. There are countless things to do on Memorial Day that can make the date more meaningful, reflective, and at the same time, enjoyable and fun.

Visit historic monuments, take part in parades, volunteer, or share a meal in honor of those who served.

Let Memorial Day be a day of honor and purpose, remembering the past and building a future with awareness and respect.

To find more inspiring ideas and practical tips for Memorial Day and other commemorative dates, continue browsing our site. Take the opportunity to check out recommendations for the best bookstores in the U.S. and hurry to discover more historical facts!