Memorial Day is more than just a three-day weekend that kicks off the summer season. It’s also a time to remember all the military men and women who have made this country what it is.
Head to a parade or attend another community event, then end your day with some great food with an easy summertime grill.
We’ve put together a full day itinerary to help your family celebrate Memorial Day, from parades to patriotic desserts. Have a great Memorial Day weekend!
Looking for more kid-friendly activities? Check out our summer family guide.
Events
These family-friendly parades and community events are sure to put your family in the patriotic spirit. See our picks below and find more Memorial Day events listed in our calendar.
Chicago Memorial Day Wreath Laying Ceremony and Parade
May 27, 2023
- Address: Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., Chicago
- Cost: Free
The wreath laying ceremony will begin at 11 a.m.at the Richard J. Daley Center Plaza. The parade kicks off at noon and proceeds south on State Street from Lake Street to Van Buren Street.
Aurora Memorial Day Parade
May 29, 2023
- Address: Benton Street and River Street, Aurora
- Cost: Free
The parade route will begin at the intersection of Benton Street and River Street. Then, it will head east on Benton, north on Broadway, west on Downer Place and end at River Street.
South Holland Memorial Day Parade
May 29, 2023
- Address: Veterans Memorial Park, 450 E. 160th Place, South Holland
- Cost: Free
The parade honors military personnel who have died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The parade begins 170th Street and South Park Avenue. After that parade, there will be a remembrance ceremony at Veterans Memorial Park.
Westmont Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony
May 29, 2023
- Address: Intersection of Cass and Naperville, Westmont
- Cost: Free
This annual parade in Westmont begins at Cass and Naperville and moves south to Veterans Park on Richmond Avenue for a ceremony.
Food
After spending the day out, head home to enjoy a good meal. Having a small Memorial Day get together with your bubble? We rounded up grilling and other great recipes to enjoy with the entire family.
Kid-Friendly Recipes for the Grill (Epicurious)
You can’t leave out the grill when cooking for Memorial Day weekend. Epicurious cobbled together kid-friendly recipes (besides hot dogs) to make on the grill. You can try grilling campfire potatoes, sliders, quesadillas and more.
No-Cook Meals for Hot Summer Days
Want a quick dinner that won’t heat up your kitchen? These no-cook recipes are quick, simple and packed with flavor. Our personal favorite on the list is the BBQ chicken salad. Plus, you can grab pre-cooked chicken from the grocery store to make it super easy.
DIY Popsicle Recipes
Even if the temps aren’t that high yet, popsicles still make a yummy treat. Make it a fun Memorial Day activity with one of these homemade popsicle recipes. Flavors include cookie dough, fresh berry and more.
More Activities
Memorial Day Crafts
It wouldn’t be a Memorial Day celebration without red, white and blue decorations. If you don’t have a flag currently, you can try painted lawn stars or patriotic painted rocks. Learn how to make these crafts.
Pritzker Military Museum and Library
Located in Downtown Chicago, learn about military history from the past and present. Admission is always free on Memorial Day, though it’s best to reserve spots early for your family.
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