The kickoff to summer is finally here. Memorial Day weekend is just around the corner. Americans have been celebrating Memorial Day since May 30th, 1868. Wow, it’s been 151 years. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson declared Memorial day’s birthplace in Waterloo, N.Y. Many people celebrate and honor soldiers for their duty in the armed forces. Everyone celebrates in different ways so, here we have the best tips to help you throw the greatest Memorial Day party for your friends and family.
Tip #1: Food, food, and more food. Everyone one loves a good barbecue and it being the start of the summer it might be the first of many. Go to your local super market and pick up some hamburgers, hot dogs, French fries and chips. These are all the essentials you need for your party. Before your start the BBQ grab some finger foods to be passed around, so your guests don’t get too hungry. Some of the best finger foods include crackers and cheese, a simple shrimp platter with red sauce and some tomato and mozzarella bites. All this will allow your guests to be full and satisfied.
Tip #2: Drinks. Besides having amazing food, you’ll need some beverages to go along with it. You need to get the staples of water, soda, ice tea, beer and some apple juice for the kids. Making sure you have the basics is important, but now it’s time to add some fun drinks to the mix. You could make a patriotic punch. An all-time favorite is the Watermelon Cooler. All you need is vodka of your choice, watermelon chucks, lemon juice and elder flower liqueur. Place the muddled watermelon at the bottom, add in the other ingredients and stir. Top it off with a watermelon wedge. This gives the patriotic vibe of Memorial Day, but also the summer vibe.
Tip #3: Entertainment. What's a Memorial Day party without some sparklers and backyard games? Our favorite outdoor games are Corn Hole and Kam Jam, while the children have a blast with water balloons and patio chalk.
Tip #4: Atmosphere. You want to create a warm and welcoming environment for your guest. Make sure to have some music playing in the background. Not too loud; you still want your guests to be able to hear each other. Have seating around the backyard so guests feel comfortable and have a place to sit down and relax. If the party plans on going into the evening, or it’s an evening party, make sure to have lighting around the backyard, so it doesn’t get too dark out there.
These 4 tips will help to keep your atmosphere pleasant for your company. In the end make sure your enjoying yourself too. It’s important to make sure your guests are happy and comfortable, but it’s also important for you too enjoy the festivities, as well. Not everything will go as planned, but just roll with it and have a good time.
Let us know how you celebrated Memorial Day and the best thing that happened at your party!