Every year on the last Monday of May, we take some time to honor those who've passed away while serving in our country's military. While somewhat of a somber occasion, Memorial Day also marks the official start of summer vacation. So we gather together both to remember and celebrate, usually in a beautiful backyard with a pile of grilled meats and a big bucket of cold drinks. If you happen to be the one hosting this year, take a look below at our must-have Memorial Day party items.
BBQ Tools
This six-piece collection of stainless steel tools is the purchase you need—nay, deserve—for cooking an endless amount of hamburgers and hot dogs. Your guests and grill will thank you.
$185; food52.com
Flower Arrangement
In honor of peonies finally being back in season, we suggest purchasing the gorgeous Peonies for President! bouquet from San Francisco, Calif.-based company Farmgirl Flowers. All of the buds are American-grown and come swaddled in a pretty, eco-friendly burlap wrap.
Serveware
Cut your clean-up time in half by using this adorable paper serveware from Meri Meri. The tropical fruit theme is perfect for a start-of-summer soirée.
Price varies; shopmerimeri.com
Beverage Tub
A classic beverage tub gets a rustic-chic upgrade with hardware-inspired fluting and galvanized sheet metal. Keep it stocked with beer and canned champagne for the adults, and bottled lemonade for the kiddos.
$70; crateandbarrel.com
Pitcher
Whip up a simple, summery cocktail and let guests serve themselves using this cheeky Kate Spade pitcher.
$30; katespade.com
Striped Straws
And for sipping? Festive striped straws, of course. These look extra cute when tucked in mason jars or margarita glasses.
$6 for a pack of 24; acmepartybox.com
Decorative Lights
Elegant copper string lights help turn an afternoon BBQ into an evening affair. Plus, you can re-use these for all future outdoor shindigs.
$58; anthropologie.com
Marshmallow Roasting Sticks
Everyone loves a freshly made s’more. Save time searching the ground for the perfect stick by handing out these stainless steel roasting skewers. The bumps on the tongs ensure that marshmallows land on a graham cracker and not in the fire.
$27; barbeqa.com
