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Grilling and Memorial Day Bring Families Together

A little girl in a red and white dress, holding an American flag, looking down towards the ground, in a grass field, surrounded by American flags.

Formed in the years following the Civil War and originally known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day was observed solely on May 30 for more than a century. Traditional Decoration Day activities included washing, painting, planting flowers, and leaving tokens at the graves of loved ones. This custom, most prevalent in the Southern Appalachian region, often brought families together to honor those who had passed. In 1971, Congress officially recognized the holiday as Memorial Day and moved its observance to the last Monday in May.

Memorial Day has also long been considered the official start to summer. As a brand closely tied to summer grilling, Blue Rhino is proud of our connection to this meaningful holiday. Honoring our nation’s heroes is one of the most important things we can do as Americans, and one way to do that is by spending time with loved ones and remembering the sacrifices made in our country's history.

If you choose to gather around the grill over the holiday, here are some recipes that are perfect for the first weekend of summer.

 
Finished burger with chips and dipping sauce on parchment paper on a wicker plate.

Classic Burger with Grilled Onions

A great American holiday deserves one of America’s most iconic grilled foods: the classic hamburger. There’s something timeless about a juicy burger hot off the grill, and this recipe delivers just that, especially with the sweet, smoky flavor of grilled onions taking center stage.

 
Grilled brat on a poppy seed bun covered with peppers on a white plate.

Honey Mustard Beer Brat

Not to be outdone on this great American grilling holiday, the bratwurst steps up as a true backyard favorite. Simmered in beer with peppers, onions, and garlic, then finished on the grill with a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze, this brat is anything but ordinary.

 
Two grilled ears or corn on a standup propane grill.

Grilled Corn on the Cob

Grilled corn on the cob is a true American cookout classic that’s simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Wrapped in foil and grilled to tender perfection, it’s the kind of side dish that belongs at any Memorial Day gathering. Whether you’re honoring the day with family, friends, or neighbors, this staple adds a golden touch to your plate.

 
Finished beans in a cast-iron pan on a standup propane grill's cooking grids.

Beer Bacon Barbecue Beans

Our Beer Bacon Barbecue Beans bring bold flavor to your Memorial Day table with a recipe that’s as all-American as it gets. Classic baked beans get an upgrade with smoky bacon and a splash of lager-style beer for a rich, savory twist. It’s the kind of side dish that smells like summer and tastes like a backyard favorite.

 
Closeup of blackberries, blueberries and raspberries.

Berry Crumble

This Berry Crumble is a sweet way to wrap up your Memorial Day celebration, combining fresh summer berries with a golden, buttery topping. Grilled over indirect heat, it’s a warm and comforting dessert that feels both rustic and festive. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream and enjoy a red, white, and blue treat worthy of the holiday.

 

As we gather with loved ones this Memorial Day, it's a time to reflect on the true meaning of the holiday. The cookouts and shared meals are a reminder of the freedom and opportunities made possible by the bravery and sacrifice of those who serve. Thank you to all who have served, are currently serving, and especially to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country. We honor your courage and commitment, and wish everyone a safe, meaningful, and peaceful holiday weekend.

 
 

Published: 2022.05.29 | Updated: 2025.05.09

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