Patriotic Foods and Traditions for Memorial Day in Orange Beach

There are few holidays more authentically American than Memorial Day. On the last Monday of May each year, millions of Americans come together to honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military and to celebrate the unofficial start of summer. At Orange Beach Concierge Services, we understand the importance of gathering with friends and family on this special day to enjoy each other’s company and indulge in delicious food.

Memorial Day Traditions

A long-standing holiday full of patriotic pride, Memorial Day traditions have deep roots in U.S. communities. Since its recognition as a federal holiday in 1971, each Memorial Day is observed with the ceremonial laying of the wreath at the Tomb of Unknowns in Arlington National Cemetery, and by ceremonies, parades, and services across the country. The long holiday weekend also marks the unofficial start of summer, which families celebrate with outdoor cookouts, trips to the beach, and all types of fun in the sun.

Here are a few common traditions you’ll find in our Gulf Coast communities:

Ceremonies + Services. Local American Legion Posts hold Memorial Day ceremonies to honor fallen Americans from our coastal communities. Venues like Fort Morgan Historic Site and the USS Alabama Battleship also host annual Memorial Day events with reenactments, flag lowerings, and more.

Orange Beach Events + Attractions. From running races and food festivals to fishing tournaments and car shows, the holiday weekend is often full of Orange Beach events for families to enjoy. Many also take advantage of the break to visit Gulf Shores attractions like the Alabama Gulf Coast Zoo or OWA’s  water park.

Beaches + Boating. Here in Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, families flock to our white-sand beaches and vibrant waterways to soak up some sun, splash in the waves, lounge on sandbars and cruise in pontoon boats. The Pantry at The Wharf can help fuel your weekend fun with easy beach fare from our Grab + Go items (you can even pop in by boat with The Wharf’s transient boat slips and get in, out, and back on the waves).

Patriotic Parties. Many families throw backyard or beachfront bashes to celebrate their patriotic pride. These festive events usually feature themed party favors, family games, good food and even fireworks. Some even throw in patriotic decor like flag centerpieces and creative dishes in red, white, and blue combinations!

Memorial Day Foods

No Alabama Gulf Coast holiday is complete without a family feast, and Memorial Day is no exception. Most Memorial Day menus feature bold, fresh flavors and easy dishes that you can set-and-forget or throw on the grill while chatting with guests. These include classics like:

Southern BBQ. Grillmasters love Memorial Day. From juicy burgers and slow-cooked pulled pork to baby-back ribs and grilled chicken wings, you can’t go wrong with a BBQ spread. Bonus points if you slather it with traditional Alabama BBQ sauce!

Savory Shrimp Boil. Fresh Gulf Shrimp, tender new potatoes, and sweet summer corn–what’s not to love? You can even let Chef David Pan create your Shrimp Boil To-Go for a Memorial Day made easy (and delicious). Call 251-981-2988 to order.

Classic Comfort Sides. Memorial Day sides are a meal in themselves (but still go great with your BBQ). Common staples include classic potato salad, southern coleslaw, deviled eggs, baked beans, and corn on the cob.

Fresh Summer Fruits. A fresh fruit salad is a tasty and refreshing treat for any Memorial Day meal. Toss summer fruits like watermelon, strawberries, blueberries, and bananas in a bowl with honey and fresh lime juice for a pretty (and patriotic) snack.

Decadent Desserts. The grand finale of your Memorial Day feast can be southern peach cobbler, traditional pound cake, or fresh berry pie – the sweeter the better! For an easy and indulgent dessert, stop by The Pantry to browse our selection of handmade cookies, chocolate truffles, colorful macaroons, and more.

Yummy Summer Cocktails. Wash it all down with a fresh summer cocktail to get in the holiday spirit. Find some of our favorite summer cocktail recipes here.

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Orange Beach Concierge was born out of our love of hosting a great party, event planning and everyday organization combined with Chef David’s drive and desire to be the very best at his culinary craft. We are an Alabama gulf coast-based boutique concierge service offering highly personalized services.