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How to Get the Most out of Your Memorial Day Weekend

At last! Memorial Day Weekend has arrived, and it’s time to kick off summer! If you’re looking to get the most out of your three-day holiday weekend, then it’s best to start planning the festivities now. No one wants to realize, the Thursday before, that they have absolutely nothing planned. So, if you’re not sure what to do on Memorial Day weekend this year, we’ve got some fantastic ideas! Say hello to summer with these five Memorial Day weekend activities.

Keep it Classic with a BBQ Pool Party

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel when searching for Memorial Day party ideas. Keep it simple. Invite friends and family for a backyard pool party, complete with a barbeque spread and boozy beverages.

No pool? No problem! You’d be surprised by how much fun a party full of revelers can have at a DIY budget water park. Grab a slip n’ slide, water guns, or even an oversized baby pool. If BBQ isn’t your favorite, you can’t go wrong with a “build your own” bar – think hot dogs, tacos, ice cream sundaes, and anything else you can customize!

Plan a Movie Night in Your Backyard

A movie night with great friends is always a good idea. But make it twice as fun by watching your favorite patriotic films under the stars this Memorial Day.

Luckily, you don’t need any overly fancy gadgets to set up your own backyard theater. Grab a budget-friendly projector at places like Walmart or Amazon, a screen (or a white bedsheet!), some speakers, and, of course, a movie! Have guests bring blankets or folding chairs, pop some extra buttery popcorn, and enjoy a flick al fresco. Don’t forget the star-spangled décor!

Get Competitive with a Backyard Tournament

If this is an adults-only Memorial Day party, think Beerlympics. If it’s a family-friendly affair, think field day! Set up various competitive games (from flip cup to a three-legged race, depending on your competitors) and divide your guests into red, white, and blue teams. Everyone will have a blast getting a little competitive. Afterward, relax and mingle in the sunshine with delicious food and refreshing drinks.

Host a Patriotic Paint Party

If you’re looking for a more out-of-the-box event to celebrate the first day of summer with your crew, hosting a Painting with a Twist painting event is the ticket. At a painting party, a talented instructor will walk you through the creation of your very own summer or America-themed artwork as you indulge in some of your favorite adult beverages.

And don’t worry: at Painting with a Twist, it’s fun art, not fine art! There’s no painting experience (or skill) required! Book a private party at your local studio, or check out this step-by-step guide for hosting a painting event in your own backyard. As you might’ve noticed, Memorial Day and sunny backyard celebrations go hand-in-hand!

patriotic painting

Remember Our Veterans

Memorial Day weekend is typically marked by cookouts, sunburns, and festivities with loved ones. However, it’s important to remember the significance of this heroic holiday. As we remember the men and women who have given their lives while serving our country, carve out some time to honor their sacrifice. Create care packages or write letters for those currently serving or tune in to the National Memorial Day Concert.

The first day of summer isn’t until June, but you can still get in the summertime spirit this Memorial Day by planning the ultimate summer experience. From backyard pool parties to delicious BBQ, the options are endless! The best option, however, is getting everyone together for a private paint event. Enjoy creating seasonally-inspired artwork with the entire family at Painting with a Twist this Memorial Day!

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