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Make a Splash with These Last-Minute Memorial Day Activities

Sometimes, Memorial Day appears out of thin air. And you may not always have plans to fill the three-day weekend. Before sending yourself into a frenzy while looking for things to do, check out these final-hour Memorial Day activity ideas.

Get outside.

Escape to the great outdoors this Memorial Day weekend. Find hiking trails near you to explore or, if you’re lucky enough to live near a National Park, take a day trip to experience some of the most beautiful places in the United States.

A day on the green with a golf club (whether it’s putting 18-holes or putt-putt), on the tennis courts, or in the swimming pool is always a day well spent. To make this long weekend special, do a little research to find an outdoor activity you might not normally do, like horseback riding, visiting a botanical garden, or even kayaking. The options are truly endless.

Go on a getaway.

How about a last-minute Memorial Day weekend getaway? Round up the children, pack up some goodies, and take a scenic road trip to a nearby city you’ve always wanted to visit. And if you’d like to enjoy a little peace and quiet during your three-day weekend, consider taking a mini-vacation at a nearby cabin or lodge for some much-needed R&R.

Host a game night.

Who doesn’t love a little friendly competition? Send out your last-minute text invites (after all, you’re probably not the only one looking for final-hour Memorial Day ideas), and then bust out the games, sandwiches, chips, fruit, and other goodies. And don’t forget to prepare a few last-minute gathering activities like charades or even a themed scavenger hunt.

Have a cookout.

Get friends and family together with a backyard barbecue! Keep it simple and low-pressure by making it a potluck. Grill up burgers and hot dogs, and let your guests bring the drinks, sides, and desserts to share. Who doesn’t love a cookout to welcome the start of summer?

Take a staycation.

Feel like you’re always on the go? Skip the day trips and activities and plan for no plans this Memorial Day. Stay in and practice some self-care at home. Or, book a nice hotel in town, and enjoy a free weekend away from any obligations.

Tackle a DIY project.

Take advantage of the extra day in your weekend to finish up those home-improvement projects you’ve been meaning to get to. Organize the pantry, purge your closet, sand the deck, or start that garden you’ve always dreamed of. All of that HGTV you’ve been watching is sure to pay off.

Get crafty with Painting with a Twist.

For fun on the fly, join a Pop In & Paint event at a Painting with a Twist studio near you! This freestyle DIY experience is one everyone can enjoy—with no reservation necessary. Plus, you don’t have to worry about hosting or cleanup! With these last-minute ideas, this Memorial Day is sure to be one to remember!

sunflowers in mason jars
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