articles

Celebrate Memorial Day! Patriotic Picnic Placemats

Festive craft for the kids that you can use as part of the decor!

By Mackenzie Erickson, Editor & Co-Publisher of Macaroni Kid Simi Valley - Moorpark May 22, 2022

Memorial Day will be on May 30th this year and you will certainly find plenty of picnics and cookouts happening throughout Simi Valley and Moorpark. In fact, many families use the occasion as an official "start of summer" celebration.

While BBQs and picnics are fun, Memorial Day is meant to be used as an occasion to honor the men and women who have served our country and to remember those who have lost their lives while on active duty. Memorial Day was originally called “Decoration Day” because of the practice of decorating soldier’s graves with flowers. So, to help remember the importance of the holiday, show your red, white, and blue pride with these patriotic placemats.


Needed Supplies:

Three pieces of paper per placemat
  • One Red
  • One White
  • One Blue

Instructions:

  1. Cut the red and blue paper into 1-inch strips across the short side (about 11 strips).
  2. Mark a one inch border around all sides of the white paper.
  3. Cut vertical strips at 1-inch intervals within the border.
  4. Weave the red and blue strips through the white paper, alternating colors or creating a pattern of your choice. Tape or glue strips on the back of the white paper.
  5. Use embellishments (ribbon, stickers, star cutouts) to decorate the edges of each placement.

Optional:
For added durability, cover in clear contact paper.
If you use ribbon on your placemats, tie your silverware with coordinating ribbon and set the table for a fun and festive Memorial Day celebration!


Wishing each of you a happy and safe Memorial Day!