The ultimate guide to Memorial Day cookouts

There’s just something about Memorial Day—those early summer breezes, the scent of sizzling burgers in the air, and the buzz of friends and family catching up over cold drinks and yard games. It’s a national rite of passage, the official kickoff to summer. But this year, it’s more than that.

Next year, America turns 250. That’s right – two-and-a-half centuries of stars, stripes, and spirited cookouts. So why not start the party early? This Memorial Day, let’s lay the groundwork for the biggest birthday bash our country has ever seen. Fire up the grill, fly that flag high, and host a cookout worthy of a milestone.

Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a first-time host, here’s your all-in-one guide to pulling off a Memorial Day cookout that’s equal parts meaningful and unforgettable.

The menu: Classics with a twist

Sure, burgers and dogs are timeless, but now’s the time to add a little pizzazz:

• Smash burgers with caramelized onions and spicy aioli
  
• Grilled corn on the cob brushed with garlic-lime butter
  
• Veggie skewers with halloumi, zucchini, and bell peppers for the plant-based crowd
  
• Watermelon-feta salad—a refreshing, no-fuss side that’ll steal the show
  
• Bacon-wrapped hot dogs with jalapeño relish and a drizzle of mustard-honey glaze
  
• Pasta salad with pesto, cherry tomatoes, and fresh mozzarella—a lighter, herbaceous take on the classic
  
• BBQ pulled chicken sliders on sweet Hawaiian rolls, with coleslaw for crunch
  

Pro tip: Prep everything the night before so you can actually relax and enjoy the day.

Drinks station: Mocktail magic meets Southern charm

Skip the soda cans and turn your drink table into a garden-inspired refreshment station. Create a dual-purpose iced tea and mocktail bar where guests can mix their own concoctions. Start with chilled pitchers of black tea, green tea, lemonade, orange juice, and sparkling water, then offer a spread of:

• Fresh fruits like raspberries, blackberries, orange and lemon slices, and cucumber
  
• Florals like edible rose petals or dried lavender
  
• Simple syrups in flavors like honey-mint, ginger-lemon, or peach
• Fresh herbs like mint, rosemary, and basil
  

Let guests build their own glass – equal parts creative and refreshing. 

And let’s not forget the brew and wine station nearby – you can have the best of both worlds. A small setup with chilled rosé, crisp whites, and a mix of local beers rounds it all out. Just keep it casual, fun, and easy to grab between conversations.

Sweet endings: Dessert ideas that wow

No cookout is complete without something sweet—and Memorial Day desserts should be as joyful as the day itself. Think bright, fresh, and a little nostalgic with these ideas that serve a crowd and make a statement:

• Red, white, and blueberry trifle – Layers of angel food cake, vanilla pudding, and fresh berries served in a clear bowl to show off those patriotic colors.
  
• Grilled pineapple with cinnamon sugar – A warm, juicy option that pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
  
• Homemade s’mores kits – Wrap graham crackers, chocolate, and marshmallows in little bundles; set out over a fire pit or grill.
  
• Lemon bars dusted with powdered sugar – Bright, tangy, and a refreshing finish to a rich meal.
  
• Ice cream float station – Provide root beer, cola, or cream soda with scoops of vanilla or strawberry ice cream for a classic touch.

The vibe: Red, white, and you

Decor doesn’t need to be Pinterest-perfect—think picnic blankets, string lights, and mason jars filled with wildflowers. Throw in some vintage Americana tunes and lawn games like cornhole, bocce, or even a water balloon toss for the kids-at-heart.

Set out a chalkboard or poster inviting guests to write down what “freedom” means to them. A meaningful moment amid the merriment.

Honor the day

Amid the cookouts and community, don’t forget the meaning behind Memorial Day. Consider a brief moment of silence, a reading of a poem, or inviting a veteran to share a few words. It’s a beautiful way to center the celebration around gratitude and remembrance.

Kick off the 250th right

With America’s Semiquincentennial (say that five times fast!) just a year away, this Memorial Day is the perfect warm-up. Encourage guests to make it an annual tradition – same time, same place, next year, but even bigger. Maybe even start planning a block party, a fireworks show, or a neighborhood potluck.

So grab your spatula, your sunglasses, and your sense of celebration. This Memorial Day isn’t just a holiday – it’s a moment to gather, to remember, and to dream big for the next 250 years.

Happy celebrating!