Memorial Day Celebrations are an annual tradition, marked by formal parades, speeches, visits to the cemetery, and other events honoring the service men and women who gave their lives for our freedom. Memorial Day is also the traditional kick-off for the summer season, characterized by barbeques with family and friends, pool parties, games, fireworks and more!

Living in an apartment community shouldn’t put a damper on your celebrations – in fact, the amenities available to residents can make a Memorial Day party even better!

Here are some tips for making your Memorial Day celebration safe, memorable and fun for everyone.

Décor, invitations, and party games are a no brainer – go with the patriotic red, white and blue theme and you can’t go wrong! A quick visit to the local party store should provide all sorts of inspiration, or you can check out Pinterest for some great ideas!

Your community clubhouse is the ideal spot to entertain friends, neighbors and family – especially if you want to stay out of the heat! Make it a potluck event and have everyone contribute a dish or dessert. Kids around? Keep them occupied with a round of Capture the Flag or other age-appropriate games.

Want to be more traditional with an outdoor party? Grab a spot in the barbecue area, and get busy grilling all-American burgers, hot dogs, corn on the cob, and whatever else strikes your fancy. Want to really wow your guests? Pinterest has some amazing recipes!

Pool parties are also a Memorial Day tradition, kicking off a summer of sun, fun and swimming! Remember to avoid having glassware near the pool – use plastic cups, bottled or canned drinks (and recycle!). Be sure to have plenty of towels and sunscreen, and remember to always keep a close eye on children around water.

Are you planning to participate in some Memorial Day Traditions? Check these out:

National Memorial Day Traditions

• – Flags are flown at half-staff from sunrise until noon, then raised to the top of the staff until sunset to honor our nation’s battle heroes.

• – Volunteers decorate veterans’ graves with small American flags.

• – The president or vice president attends a ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery and lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

• – Memorial Day celebrations often include the playing of “Taps,” a 24-note bugle call that’s traditionally played an hour before the final bugle call that ends the day.

• – Memorial Day parades featuring military personnel and members of veterans’ organizations take place in cities and towns throughout the United States.

Have a Happy Memorial Day! We hope you choose to use your amenity spaces in your community during Memorial weekend. We also hope you enjoy your long weekend with friends and family while remembering and honoring those who have served and currently serve in the United States Armed Forces.