Most of our national celebration days feel joyous, but Memorial Day (the last Monday of May) hits different 😢
…so today I’ll offer some meaningful ways to Honor & Remember instead of the usual fun ideas I like to share.
This very meaningful U.S. holiday honors those who have died in military service — and should be treated with a balance of respect and remembrance with a thoughtful, uplifting tone.
Here are some appropriate ways you can celebrate Memorial Day while engaging your team and showing appreciation to the military:
1. ❤️ Patriotic Office Decor & Dress Code
- Decorate the office (or Zoom backgrounds!) with red, white, and blue
- Encourage employees to wear patriotic colors or military-themed attire (respectfully, not costumes).
- Play a short video or slideshow honoring veterans or sharing the history of Memorial Day.
2. 💙 “Thank a Hero” Wall or Virtual Tribute
- Set up a wall (or Slack channel) where employees can share the names and stories of loved ones who served.
- Create a video tribute or a digital memory board using Canva or GoogleSlides.
- Create an e-newsletter where employees can share their memories and photos.
3. 🤍 Memorial Day BBQ or Picnic (In-Person or Virtual)
- Reflect on the day together with a patriotic-themed catered BBQ lunch or send employees a BBQ-themed gift box along with a heartfelt card highlighting some meaningful stories.
- Virtual teams can do a Zoom “Patriotic Picnic” with mailed treat kits, recipe sharing, or grilling tips and enjoy together while sharing stories.
4. ❤️ Give Back Together (Service Project or Fundraiser)
- Organize a volunteer opportunity or fundraising drive for veterans’ organizations (e.g., Wounded Warrior Project, Fisher House, Operation Gratitude).
- Host a matching donation campaign: Match employee donations to military charities.
- Create a team activity of putting together meaningful care boxes for veterans.
5. 💙 Themed Corporate Gifts
- Give a thoughtful gift box that fits the theme — like a grill kit, picnic basket, or summer-themed box and include:
- Patriotic tumbler or travel mug
- American-themed Gourmet snacks and favorites, like Red, White & Blue M&Ms
- Mini flag or button
- Stars & Stripes packaging
6. 🤍 Moment of Silence + Flag Etiquette
- Start a team meeting or event with a minute of silence to honor the fallen.
- You could also briefly explain how and why the U.S. flag is flown at half-staff until noon on Memorial Day, then raised.
🪖I hope these ideas can infuse more meaning and appreciation for our heroes.
Need assistance with your Memorial Day gifts?
As usual, I’m here to help!
❤️🤍💙 –Carrie
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