(RNN) – While AAA says nearly 35 million Americans will travel for Memorial Day, many more will stay at home. Whether due to financial constraints or simply a lack of plans, millions will forgo holiday travel altogether.
So how can you make the most of your Memorial Day staycation?
“Adjust your attitude. Remember that it was not so many years ago when a common question was, ‘Are you going anywhere during your vacation?’ It was not simply assumed,” said Kevin Gallegos with the Freedom Financial Network. “Remember that a main point of vacationing is to relax, rejuvenate and have fun. That doesn’t need to cost a bundle or require travel.”
That said, there are plenty of things you can do in your own backyard between the barbecue at lunch and the Memorial Day fireworks after dark.
If you’re out of ideas, Gallegos and April Masini of AskApril.com have some suggestions.
Rent a convertible
How about throwing a picnic lunch together and renting a convertible for a spin to the beach, the mountains or a park?
Movie Marathon
While everyone’s at the beach, make your own film festival by seeing four movies in a row at the local multiplex.
Neighborhood garage sale
If your spring cleaning didn’t happen, this is a great weekend to pool your resources with your neighbors and have a neighborhood garage sale. Feeling resourceful? Have a bake sale, too. Donate the proceeds to your local Veteran’s Administration Hospital or some other organization that benefits veterans.
Volunteer
Spend the day volunteering at the VA Hospital. Remember what the holiday is all about and give back your Memorial Day to those who gave so much for you.
Local Concerts
Indoors or out, cities across the country will hold Memorial Day music festivals, street festivals or even a free concert at a local park. Go take in some live music.
Explore your town
Every town has touristy attractions. And most locals never take the time to see them. Contact your local tourism bureau to identify tourist sites in your hometown that you have never seen.
Swim
The local pool, the lake, the beach, it doesn’t matter. Just break out the swim suit and kick off the summer right.
Finish a Project
If you’ve been looking for time to finish a cross-stitch project or some landscaping, this is the time to go for it. Involve the kids in painting their rooms or helping get the garden ready for spring planting.
Read
Spend an evening at a local bookstore or library. Or just read a book you want to read.
Above all else, disconnect, zone out, and have fun.
“Turn off the phone and ignore email, turn on automated ‘away on vacation’ messages,” Gallegos said.
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