4 Ways to Observe Memorial Day

Memorial Day was first observed in the late 1860s after the Civil War. Towns and cities recognized fallen soldiers by decorating their graves. Since then, Memorial Day has become known as the unofficial start of summer and a reason to barbecue over a long weekend. The ideas below can help take your family back to the roots of Memorial Day and recognize the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. Military.

1. Visit a military cemetery to pay respect, leave flowers or a flag. In our hometown, the Big Bend Honor Guard will host a celebration at the Tallahassee National Cemetery.

2. Make patriotic crafts with your kids for your home or to bring to a local Memorial Day event. Parents magazine shares ideas for a Stately Striped Wreath, Mini Marching Drum and more.

3. Pause festivities at 3p.m. local time on Memorial Day to participate in the National Moment of Remembrance.

4. Write a letter to a current member of the military. Operation Gratitude and A Million Thanks are two organizations that can help you learn how to send one.