Nothing says Memorial Day like a chill time and BBQs with family and friends, and a whole lot of red, white and blue. It’s a fun and laid back way to kick off summer. This year, mix up some of your same old cookout staples (i.e. hot dogs, burgers and chips and dip) with some creative alternatives. Below are some recipes to inspire you, as well as a few decor ideas to get you ready for a fun get together! I’m personally so excited for a long weekend with family and hanging at the pool, plus heading to West Palm on Saturday night for the free concert with country stars Parmalee, life-size games (Jenga my size? So cool!) and more… all about being outdoors and enjoying our community.

**Don’t forget what Memorial Day is all about! Take a moment to remember and honor all those who have died while serving our country and protecting each and every one of us.

YUMMY BITES

Blueberry, Strawberry & Jicama Salsa via Two Peas & Their Pod

Watermelon “Caprese” via Skinny Taste (yum!)

Mix it up with a Hot Dog Bar via Pocket Change Gourmet

Key Lime Grilled Chicken Skewers via Whitney Bond

Bacon Bourbon Baked Beans via How Sweet It Is

Mexican Street Corn Salad via Cooking Classy

Tortellini Kabobs via Real Women & Homes

Cupcakes in a Jar via The TomKat Studio

Firecracker Popsicles via Becca Bakes

Cheesecake-stuffed strawberries via Dessert Now Dinner Later

Brownie & Fruit Kabobs via Mel’s Kitchen (let kiddies assemble their own!)

Strawberry Blueberry Limeade via The Taylor House (add vodka; I won’t tell!)

White Wine Sangria via Cool Mom Eats

DECOR INSPIRATION

American Flag Mason Jars via Maison de Pax (make this a fun craft project)

Patriotic String Lights via eHow

Streamers via Hometalk

Streamer Table Cloth via Home Edit

Gingham Table Cloth via The Art Abyss

Bandana Napkins via OMG Lifestyle