Memorial Day Party Checklist for Family & Friends (With Helpful Products to Make It Easy)

Memorial Day is a special time to honor those who served — and bring loved ones together to kick off summer. Whether you’re hosting a cozy backyard cookout or a full family reunion, this checklist provides a simple plan and optional tools to make it all stress-free.

Here’s exactly what to do — and what can help you do it better.

📅 Plan Ahead

• Choose the date and time: Memorial Day is always the last Monday of May. Decide whether you’re hosting during the weekend or on the day itself.
• Pick your location: Backyard, beach, park, or indoors if weather’s uncertain.
• Create your guest list and keep track: Jot down who’s coming, what they’re bringing, and any dietary notes.

🛒 Helpful Tools:

• Magnetic Dry-Erase Refrigerator Calendar: Perfect for organizing guest names and party prep
• VINGLI 6-Foot Folding Picnic Table Set with Benches: Great for hosting in parks or small patios
• 25 American Flag Patriotic Invitations with Envelopes: Traditional and festive touch

🍔 Build the Menu

• Grill-friendly mains: Think burgers, hot dogs, veggie skewers, or ribs.
• Easy side dishes: Coleslaw, corn on the cob, fruit salad, and potato salad.
• Desserts: Flag-themed cupcakes or strawberry shortcake.
• Drinks: Lemonade, sangria, iced tea, and plenty of water.

🛒 Helpful Tools:

• Cuisinart Deluxe 20-Piece BBQ Grill Tool Set
• Beistle Patriotic 3-Tier Cupcake Stand
• 2-Gallon Glass Beverage Dispenser with Stand

🎉 Organize Entertainment

• Music: Set the mood with a patriotic or upbeat summer playlist.
• Games: Plan for lawn games or card games — great icebreakers.
• Kids’ activities: Include bubbles, coloring pages, or scavenger hunts.

🛒 Helpful Tools:

• Upgraded Outdoor Bluetooth Speaker with Lights
• Yard Games Giant Yard Pong Set
• Cornhole Outdoor Games Set with American Flag Design

👉 For more ideas, check out our Party Game Guides

🎈 Decorate the Space

• Patriotic color scheme: Stick to red, white, and blue for banners, napkins, and centerpieces.
• Lighting: Add string lights or LED flags if the party goes into the evening.
• Table setup: Use themed tablecloths and serving trays for a cohesive look.

🛒 Helpful Tools:

• Janinus 120-Piece Red, White & Blue Balloon Garland Kit
• HYH American Flag Lights with 420 LEDs
• 3-Pack Patriotic Plastic Tablecloths

🧊 Prep the Essentials

• Seating & tables: Make sure there’s enough for everyone — or ask guests to bring extras.
• Shade & comfort: Tents or umbrellas are key on sunny days.
• Coolers & clean-up: Keep drinks cold and trash out of sight.

🛒 Helpful Tools:

• Tommy Bahama 100-Quart Stainless Steel Rolling Cooler
• Oneofics 10×10 FT Pop-Up Canopy Tent
• Memorywuu 2-Pack Collapsible Trash Cans with Zippered Lids

🎗️ Add Meaning to the Day

• Moment of silence: Honor fallen soldiers with a brief, respectful pause.
• Create a tribute space: Display a flag, photo board, or remembrance candle.
• Encourage giving back: Set up a donation jar for veteran organizations.

🛒 Helpful Tools:

• American Flag with Pole Kit
• Memorial Lantern with LED Candle
• In Loving Memory Sign

📝 Final Thoughts

With the right planning and tools, your Memorial Day gathering can be stress-free, meaningful, and full of laughter. Use this checklist to cover all the bases — from the food to the fun to the tribute.

You’ll create a day your guests won’t forget — and one that truly honors the reason for the holiday. 🇺🇸

👉 For more ideas, check out our Party Game Guides