Memorial Day is different this year, no doubt. Any plans of gatherings with friends and family seem to have vanished for some. Parades are canceled. Although some may honor the day in a way we do not all agree on, it really sends a message to the younger generation that a celebration is in order. It lends itself to the opportunity to discuss the reason why we honor the fallen soldiers and the wars that they fought.
Well, I for one, insist on keeping this tradition. It looks like we are going to have good weather. I made a list of a few activities we can participate in tomorrow.
1. Visit our local war memorials. Although some of these may be fenced off, we can take a walk or drive a short distance to contemplate all of the folks that sacrificed their lives for our country.
2. Fleet Week is happening online this year. Check it out!
3. Watch Fireworks. We happen to love them in our house. Typically Whitestone seems to be BOOMING with these on special days. If these bother your family, try visiting the CBD superstore for some pre-firework relief. They have quite a variety of remedies for stress, anxiety, and sleeplessness.
4. A Dj Mario Porch Party viewing. DJ Marco has been delighting Whitestone with his skills on the turntables. He recently suffered an injury, so check his Facebook page for updates.
5. Organize a car parade. Official parades are not happening. Gather your own friends and family and drive or ride decorated bikes along the neighborhood and honk your horn or blow whistles. The car parades have become popular at this time, and they are so much fun.
6. Decorate your home in RED WHITE AND BLUE, or hang a flag.
7. Take a walk along the Cross Island Joe Michael's Mile to the Bayside Marina. You can rent or charter a boat for a few hours. What a fun memory to create with your loved ones. The café is open from 8am to 8pm for takeout only.
8. The NY State Beaches will be open. We may shoot over to one of the Long Island beaches and (socially distant of course) enjoy the sound of crashing waves and feel the sand in our toes. I am still undecided on this one, but at least it is an option that we did not have before.
9. Go on a Memorial Day Scavenger Hunt with your kids. Download the printable here
10. If you are hesitant to leave the house just yet, there are plenty of ways you can virtually honor Memorial Day.
As much as we all wish we could be remembering together, it is just as important to remember at home. Share how you will be remembering and honoring our service members on the Bayside Macaroni Kid Facebook Page.
