Kick off summer vacation with a pitcher of homemade sweet tea and a backyard barbeque for Memorial Day.

A national holiday and ritual of remembrance for U.S soldiers who have served their country, a traditional afternoon picnic or cook-out at WaterClub West is a great way to take pride in all things American from the food to the music and games. Celebrate this Memorial Day with friends and family at WaterWays!

Check out some of our tips for planning a Memorial Day cook-out:

• Good Company: Create a list of the friends and family that you are planning to invite. A guest list will help you keep track of who you have invited and how much you will need to prepare. Â It will also help in planning additional afternoon activities.

• Location, Location, Location: Deciding where to have your cookout or picnic is important. Here in Richmond Hill, the Veterans Monument at J.F. Gregory Park, Fort McAllister State Park and WaterClub West are outdoor venues that are great for any Memorial Day celebration. With open green space for the kids, picnic areas and catering kitchens to add last minute touches to those deviled eggs, Richmond Hill offers residents a variety of great venues.

• Picnic Basket: Decide on what foods you would like to include on the menu for the weekend. Make sure to plan for snacks, entrees, drinks and desserts. Once you have created your menu, it will be easier to assign menu items to guests and plan to prepare your dish. Tell friends and family to bring prepared food in containers' and don't forget your picnic basket or cooler!

• Fun Activities: Depending on who is coming to your cookout or picnic, you will want to plan to bring some sports equipment and board games; this will ensure that everyone stays entertained throughout the afternoon. Planning your celebration at a venue that also has activities going throughout the day is a great idea!

• Check the Weather: Remember to always check the weather forecast before any outdoor event. If there is a chance of rain, bring a tent, or plan to have your picnic indoors. If it is going to be warm and sunny, coolers full of water and battery operated fans are a great way to stay cool.

• Stay Organized: Stay organized by creating a Memorial Day checklist, so that nothing is forgotten. Check out How to Create a Memorial Day Picnic Checklist to ensure that you have all the bases covered.