5 Ways Minnesotans Should Be Celebrating Memorial Day

It's easy to get caught up in the fun of having an extra long weekend because of Memorial Day. However, don't forget the true reason why we're celebrating the holiday. Memorial Day is meant to be a day where we remember and honor those who have sacrificed their lives and paid the ultimate price for the freedoms we enjoy today. It's a national day of mourning. So, while you're grilling, heading to the cabin, camping, swimming and spending time with family this weekend, take time to remember the fallen. Here's how you can help celebrate our heroes this Memorial Day.

1. Attend a parade or Memorial Day ceremony. There are a few events happening locally that you can participate in. The St. Cloud VA will be holding a parade in honor of the fallen and Camp Ripley will hold their annual Memorial Day ceremony.

2. Let your flags fly. According to the Memorial Day Foundation, the American Flag should be flown at half staff until noon. After noon you're supposed to raise it to full mast. All POW/MIA flags should be put on your flag pole next to the American Flag.

3. Visit the grave of a fallen hero. It doesn't even matter if you knew that person personally. Bring a wreath or a flag with you and place it on that person's grave.

4. Thank a military member; active or veteran. We don't need to wait until Veteran's Day to appreciate those who have sacrificed and continue to sacrifice so that we don't have to.

5. Participate in the National Moment of Remembrance. It'll happen at 3 p.m. local time. You're encouraged to take a minute to be silent and think about those who have given everything they have for our freedom.