On May 27, cities all around the U.S. will be celebrating Memorial Day with patriotic festivities to pay respect to the men and women who gave their lives for our country.  And since President Richard Nixon proclaimed the last Monday in May as a federal holiday in 1971, the extended memorial day weekend is also considered the beginning of the summer vacation season.  Outdoor plans and warm-weather traditions are stellar opportunities to share your personal star-spangled spirit.  Whether you wave a flag at a parade, sing America the Beautiful around a campfire, or bring a patriotic dish to a party, hopefully you’ll find a way to honor the meaning of the day while enjoying some long-awaited summertime fun!

In the mood board: God Bless America postcard from American Greetings