How to Celebrate Memorial Day on a Budget

Summer officially begins near the end of June, but many folks usher in the season on Memorial Day. Though it traditionally honors veterans killed in action, for some people the holiday has become a weekend-long celebration. However you mark the day, it doesn’t have to blow your budget. There are lots of relatively low-cost and even free options.

Remember the Fallen

Many cities hold free Memorial Day events to pay tribute to soldiers killed in action. Some, such as cemetery services, are solemn, while others, like parades, are more festive. You might even have access to a local military attraction. Check to see what your locale offers.

Get a Head Start

The summer movie blockbuster season begins around Memorial Day. Super hero flicks, action adventures and big-budget comedies often open that weekend. See the latest offering at a matinee, which is usually discounted. For an even cheaper film festival, rent a couple movies — or borrow them for free from the library — and binge.

Get to Know Your Area

A daycation is an inexpensive break from the workweek. What’s local, fun and low-priced? Hike in a park, swing by a landmark, enjoy a picnic, visit a museum or go to an amusement park. Check local informational websites and newspapers for ideas.

Heat Up the Grill

Tidy up the house real quick, and then throw a backyard barbecue for family and friends. Make it a dish-to-pass, and it’s a bargain for everyone. Grill traditional favorites like hot dogs and hamburgers and finish with sweet and sticky s’mores. To make the party really festive, pick up red, white and blue decorations from a nearby dollar store.

Make Chili If It’s Chilly

Memorial Day weather isn’t always conducive to outdoor fun. If it’s too wet or cold for a cookout, throw a chili bash. With inexpensive ground beef and dried beans, a large pot goes a long way. An added plus: make the meal ahead of time and enjoy time with family and friends.

Set Up a Tent

A nearby campground is an inexpensive get-away destination. It’s far cheaper than a hotel and offers free and fun activities, such as campfires, swimming, hiking and fishing. Keep food choices simple so you don’t have to slave over an open flame at every meal.

Go Out on the Water

If you’re lucky, you live near a lake or ocean beach. Even if it’s too cool to swim, you can get your toes wet, build castles, play Frisbee or just relax. But you don’t need a sandy beach for hydro-fun. Rent a canoe, kayak or stand-up paddleboard and spend the day exploring a local waterway.

Dance to the Music

The start of summer often brings music festivals. Some are low-cost or even free. Your local tourism board has information about nearby melodious performances.

Grab a Groupon

The Groupon website offers deep discounts for lots of local activities. Choices range from exciting — whitewater rafting and paintball games — to mellow, such as massages and dining experiences. Go to the site and see what’s available in your area.

Get a Weekend Away

Taking a mini-vacation is going to cost more than watching a parade, but some destinations are decidedly more affordable than others. Depending upon where you live, you can take a great trip without breaking the bank.

East
- After cherry blossom season, Washington, D.C., hotel rates dip. There are also lots of free local attractions, such as the Smithsonian Institution’s museums and national zoo.
- Find deals at certain Boston luxury hotels during Memorial Day weekend. Walk the Freedom Trail and see many historical landmarks — free.
- Some three- and four-star hotels offer last-minute deals in New York City.
West
- Unlike other tourist locations, San Francisco hotels aren’t generally a lot pricier during the summer.
- Staying at Catalina Island is actually less expensive during the summer than in the fall.
- Hotel prices in the Phoenix area drop at the end of spring. Get a summer preview and enjoy the warm, dry weather.
- If you’re a procrastinator, some Las Vegas hotels come to the rescue with price reductions for the holiday weekend.
Middle States
- The Gypsy Caravan in St. Louis is the Midwest’s largest flea market.
- Denver hosts a free downtown festival featuring over 100 local artists.
South
- Before school lets out, Orlando hotels offer some good deals.
- Though parades and celebrations are in full swing, hotels in New Orleans can be very reasonably priced for Memorial Day.
- Check out Nashville hotels for low prices at the end of May.
- Memorial Day is between seasons for Miami, and hotel prices drop accordingly. You experience warm but not extreme temperatures and smaller crowds.