As the Texas sun brings hotter weather, kick the summer season off with a Memorial Day celebration. Here are a few tips on how you can prepare the decor, beverages, and festivities for a holiday at home.
All Things Red, White, and Blue
Since Memorial Day celebrations are to honor those who were lost while serving in the United States Armed Forces, this holiday’s color scheme is patriotic and broken down into three colors: red, white, and blue. It is time to bring out those decorations to place around your home and backyard. Items like wreaths, pennants, and balloons are easy to hang on your front door, along the fence, or wherever the festivities will occur. Pairing the patriotic colors with a neutral, such as burlap or twine, allows the red, white, and blue in your decor to pop. Additionally, if you own an American flag do not forget to fly Old Glory at half-staff before noon on the holiday. These simple touches will help your guests to feel the Memorial Day spirit.
For the tablescape, continue the theme with simple yet traditional decor that embodies an Americana spirit. Lay the foundation for your table with a classic red and white plaid picnic tablecloth. This fabric does not need to be ironed and can endure the elements as well as the messiness your meal may bring. Create easy, yet eye-catching centerpieces with just a few supplies. Recycle old, blue wine bottles to hold roses, carnations, or daisies, which can be found at your local grocery store. Construct a variety of heights on the table by incorporating smaller mason jars into the mix and cut the flowers accordingly. To add a pinch more of patriotic spirit, squeeze a few drops of blue food coloring into the water of the mason jars for a colorful centerpiece.
Sip Sip Hooray!
With hotter temperatures, consider serving a refreshing beverage to beat the heat. You can not go wrong with making sangria! This simple yet flavorful libation can be made in advance and stored in your refrigerator. Select your favorite wine to fill a serving pitcher with. Chop up apples, pineapple, blueberries, and strawberries and toss in the pitcher to add a natural sweetness. Pour in a liter of ginger ale or tonic water for a crisp taste. Lastly, squeeze in lemon juice to keep the fruit from browning. Bring out the pitcher, pour, and enjoy!
If you plan on celebrating the holiday in your front or backyard, schedule in some festivities for the whole family. Bake homemade goods like cupcakes or sugar cookies and set up a decorating table for kids to participate in. Layout red, white, and blue frosting as well as jubilant sprinkles for a tasty activity. For more athletic types, set up a corn hole set and compete in teams to pass the time. This game is a low-impact activity that allows a range of ages, young and young at heart alike, to join in on the fun.
However you plan on spending the holiday, adding your own touch of patriotic spirit through simple decor and festivities can make Memorial Day a day of celebration and honor you and your family will look forward to every year.
