Memorial Day is not just another holiday; it’s a special day to remember and honor our fallen veterans. What better way to celebrate their memory than with a patriotic outdoor Memorial Day party? From decorating your porch with red, white, and blue to setting up a table of honor, there are many ways to make your party special. In this article, we'll share 15 outdoor memorial party decoration tips.
1. Deck Your Porch with Red, White, and Blue
The porch is often the first thing your guests and neighbors see when they approach your home. So, why not make it extra festive by decking it out in red, white, and blue for patriotic holidays or just to celebrate the spirit of America? Decorate with flags, banners, balloons and more to make sure they know your house is where the party is at.
2. Hang a "Star-Spangled" Banner
Hanging a banner on your home or porch is a great way to showcase your love for the red, white, and blue. Purchase a pre-made patriotic banner, or even balloon garland from a store or online retailer. There are many options available, from simple banners featuring the American flag to more elaborate designs with fireworks, stars, and stripes.
3. Table Decor
Memorial Day table decor is a fantastic way to create a cohesive and eye-catching look at your next event. By incorporating elements like gingham table linens, colorful tableware, and patriotic centerpieces, you can create a festive atmosphere that reflects your personal style and also impresses your guests. This section will explore these three components and how they can help elevate your themed table decor.
Gingham Table Cloths
One of the most popular and versatile fabrics for table dressings is gingham. The simple checkerboard pattern is available in various sizes, colors, and materials, making it a great choice for almost any event. In addition to its versatility, gingham's friendly and nostalgic aesthetic gives it a timeless appeal that never goes out of style. If you don’t want to go the gingham route, you could always try a solid table cover that matches your theme!
Colorful Tableware
A simple way to make your themed table decor pop is by incorporating colorful tableware. This includes everything from plates and glasses to napkins and flatware. Instead of sticking to basic white or silver, try adding a few bold colors that complement your theme. This can easily tie your table together while creating a fun and stylish environment for your guests.
Centerpieces
No themed table decor is complete without a show-stopping centerpiece. For patriotic events, such as Independence Day celebrations or election parties, opt for centerpieces that incorporate the red, white, and blue theme in creative ways. Some ideas for patriotic centerpieces include:
- Bouquets of red, white, and blue flowers, such as roses or carnations,
- Arrangements of miniature American flags placed in mason jars filled with colorful sand or pebbles.
- Stacks or clusters of red, white, and blue candles nestled among greenery and other decorative accents.
- A mixture of patriotic-themed DIY crafts, such as painted mason jar vases, star-shaped ornaments, or hand-stitched bunting, adds a personal touch.
- Premade centerpieces that match the patriotic theme are also a great idea.
4. Flower Arrangements
Flowers are another essential component to many beautifully themed tablescapes. Patriotic flower arrangements are perfect for any event where you're celebrating your country, and they can be designed in countless ways using various blooms and colors. Popular patriotic color flowers include red roses or gerberas, white lilies, alstroemeria or daisies, and blue delphiniums or hydrangeas.
5. Your Veteran's Favorite Games
One of the most popular ways of celebrating a veteran's military service and retirement is by displaying their favorite games at the celebration. Setting out your veteran's favorite games is an excellent opportunity for reminiscing and bonding with fellow attendees. This gesture signifies the importance of shared memories and experiences throughout the individual's career.
Consider the following ways to integrate your veteran's favorite games during the outdoor event:
Cornhole
Bocce ball
Badmitten
Volleyball
Disc Golf
6. Table of Honor
The Table of Honor is a poignant and profound tradition often used during military and veteran events. It symbolizes the sacrifice and bravery displayed by soldiers. Setting up a Table of Honor is a meaningful way to pay tribute to your veteran's service and the sacrifices thousands of servicemen and women made.
7. Photo Displays
Photo displays are an essential element in showcasing important memories of your loved veteran. Ask friends and family to send you pictures so that you can display them on a table or posterboard for everyone to enjoy.
8. Slideshow Projection
Slideshow projection is another great way to showcase your photos and create a memorable experience commemorating your loved one. Have it repeated throughout the party so your guests can take a moment to remember the reason for the holiday!
9. Colorful Vases
Colorful vases and serveware with different shapes can add dimension and variation to your party decor. Fill these vases with flowers, candy, straws for drinks, or anything else for your guests to enjoy.
10. Red, White, and Blue Balloon Displays
Red, white, and blue balloon displays are an exciting and festive way to celebrate patriotic holidays or events. These displays can be created using various techniques, including balloon columns, garlands, and arches.
Balloon Columns
Balloon columns consist of a series of stacked balloons, often alternating in color. The balloons can be arranged in a straight, spiral, or checkerboard pattern, and the column can be topped with a large, statement-making balloon or other decorative element.
Balloon Garlands and Arches
Balloon garlands consist of balloons in various sizes and colors, strung together and typically hung along a wall or above a doorway. Balloon arches are similar but are shaped in an arch and often used as an entrance or photo backdrop.
Balloon Flag
Or you can take red, white, and blue balloons to create a balloon flag display. This not only points to our country's flag, but is a great photo backdrop for your friends and family to enjoy!
11. Memorial Day Candy Table
Memorial Day is a special time to honor and remember those who gave their lives for our country. Setting up a candy table is one way to add an extra festive touch to your Memorial Day celebrations. Not only does it provide a fun and interactive activity for your guests, but it also serves as a sweet tribute to the holiday.
12. Patriotic Party Favors
When planning a patriotic-themed party, don't forget about party favors! These small gifts or treats serve as tokens of appreciation and help your guests remember the fun they had at your event. The following ideas will inspire you to create memorable patriotic party favors that your guests will love. Great favors include:
- Mini Flags
- Personalized Buttons
- Red, White, and Blue Candies
- Firecracker Favors
- Patriotic Sunglasses
- Flag-Themed Accessories
13. American Flag Cupcakes
American flag cupcakes are a delightful and delicious way to celebrate patriotic events. They're surprisingly easy to make and can be customized to suit your preferences. You simply take your cupcakes and arrange them in a tight rectangle, then ice the tops to make it look like the stars and stripes!
14. Burger Bar for Dinner
Nothing is more classic than burgers on a summer holiday. Use red white and blue cups, plates and serving platters to set the scene while everyone fills up on their favorite burger toppings.
15. Fruit Cups
Fruit cups are a refreshing and colorful summer treat. For anyone that needs something refreshing to snack on, you can fill clear plastic cups with blueberries, strawberries, and jicama to resemble the stars and stripes. Take it one step further and cut your strawberries into star shapes.
From incorporating patriotic colors and symbols to highlighting their achievements through photos and memorabilia, there are many different ways to pay tribute to those who have served our country on Memorial Day. By taking the time to plan and execute a well-decorated event, we can honor and celebrate the sacrifices that veterans have made for our freedom and show them our heartfelt gratitude.
