255 BEST Armed Forces Day Ideas How to Celebrate (Up)

Today, we honor the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting our nation by celebrating Armed Forces Day.

While it's a special day to recognize those in the military, it can also be an opportunity for all of us to show support and appreciation for them.

But what are some ways that you can celebrate this important day?

Here are 255 ideas on how you can mark Armed Forces Day with family and friends!

From attending parades or donating time at local veterans organizations, there’s something here for everyone looking to demonstrate their respect and admiration for service members past and present.

1. Attend a local parade

Many towns and cities host parades in honor of Armed Forces Day. Attend and show your support.

2. Visit a military base

Contact your local military base and ask if they offer tours or open houses. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about what our troops do.

3. Write a letter to a soldier

Use websites such as Operation Gratitude to write letters of appreciation to soldiers serving overseas.

4. Donate to a military charity

Choose from charities such as the Wounded Warrior Project, the USO, or Fisher House Foundation.

5. Host a care package party

Gather friends and family and put together care packages to send to troops overseas.

6. Attend a military reenactment

Watch history come to life by attending a military reenactment.

7. Attend a military memorial service

Honor those who have given their lives in service by attending a military memorial service.

8. Fly the American flag

Show your patriotism and fly the American flag in honor of Armed Forces Day.

9. Attend a military-themed concert

Many concerts are held in honor of the military, and some are even free for military personnel.

10. Attend a military-themed movie

Watch a movie such as Saving Private Ryan or Black Hawk Down to honor the sacrifices of our troops.

11. Visit a military museum

Learn about the history of the military at a nearby museum.

12. Attend a military-themed sporting event

Many sports teams offer discounted tickets or other promotions for members of the military.

13. Host a military history trivia night

Test your knowledge of military history by hosting a trivia night with friends and family.

14. Send a care package to a military dog

Don’t forget about the four-legged members of the military. Send a care package to a military dog stationed overseas.

15. Attend a military-themed art exhibit

Many art museums host exhibits featuring military-themed artwork.

16. Host a Veterans’ Job Fair

Help connect veterans with potential employers by hosting a job fair in your community.

17. Attend a military-themed play

Many theaters put on plays that celebrate the service and sacrifice of our troops.

18. Host a welcome home party

Throw a party to welcome home a soldier who has recently returned from deployment.

19. Volunteer at a veterans’ hospital

Spend time with those who have served our country by volunteering at a veterans’ hospital.

20. Attend a military-themed book reading

Many authors write books about military history or the experiences of soldiers. Attend a book reading to honor their work.

21. Plant a garden in honor of the military

Honor the sacrifices of our troops by planting a garden with red, white, and blue flowers.

22. Take a veteran out for lunch

Show your appreciation by taking a veteran out for lunch or coffee.

23. Attend a military ball

Many military organizations host balls to honor the service and sacrifice of troops.

24. Attend a military-themed lecture

Learn from experts by attending a lecture on military history or current events.

25. Host a military-themed game night

Play games such as Risk or Battleship to honor the military.

26. Attend a military-themed poetry reading

Many poets write about the experiences of soldiers. Attend a reading to honor their work.

27. Host a military-themed potluck

Have friends and family bring dishes that are popular in the military or that soldiers would enjoy.

28. Attend a military-themed dance

Many organizations host dances in honor of the military.

29. Run a 5k in honor of the military

Many races are held in honor of the military, such as the Marine Corps Marathon.

30. Attend a military-themed fireworks show

Watch a spectacular fireworks show in honor of the military.

31. Host a fundraiser for a military charity

Organize a fundraiser to raise money for a charity that supports the military.

32. Attend a military-themed comedy show

Many comedians perform routines that honor the military. Attend a show to laugh and show your support.

33. Create a military-inspired art project

Get creative and make an art project inspired by the military. Hang it up in your home or give it as a gift.

34. Attend a military-themed ballet

Many ballet companies put on shows that honor the service and sacrifice of our troops.

35. Host a military-themed picnic

Invite friends and family to a picnic and ask them to bring dishes that are popular in the military.

36. Attend a military-themed fashion show

Many fashion designers create clothing inspired by the military. Attend a show to see their work.

37. Create a scrapbook in honor of the military

Gather photos and other memorabilia and create a scrapbook to honor the military.

38. Attend a wreath-laying ceremony

Honor those who have served by attending a wreath-laying ceremony at a local memorial.

39. Host a military-themed karaoke night

Sing songs that are popular with the military or that celebrate their service.

40. Attend a military-themed opera

Many operas feature stories of soldiers and their experiences. Attend a performance to honor their sacrifices.

41. Create a care package for a veteran

Even veterans who are no longer serving overseas can use some extra love. Put together a care package and send it to a veteran you know.

42. Attend a military-themed lecture series

Many universities host lecture series on military history or current events. Attend to learn more about the military.

43. Host a military-themed game tournament

Compete against friends and family in games such as Call of Duty or Madden NFL.

44. Attend a military-themed photography exhibit

Many photographers create work inspired by the military. Attend an exhibit to see their work.

45. Create a military-inspired craft project

Get crafty and create a project inspired by the military. Hang it up in your home or give it as a gift.

46. Host a military-themed bar crawl

Visit bars and restaurants with military ties and learn about their history.

47. Attend a military-themed dance performance

Many dance companies put on shows that honor the service and sacrifice of our troops.

48. Create a care package for a military family

Send a care package to a family who has a loved one who is currently serving overseas.

49. Host a military-themed potluck dinner

Ask friends and family to bring dishes that are popular in the military or that soldiers would enjoy.

50. Attend a military-themed lecture on leadership

Learn about leadership by attending a lecture given by a military leader.

51. Create a military-inspired home decor item

Get creative and make something for your home that is inspired by the military.

52. Attend a military-themed laser light show

Watch a stunning laser light show that honors the military.

53. Host a military-themed trivia night

Test your knowledge of military history and current events by hosting a trivia night.

54. Attend a military-themed poetry slam

Many poets write about the experiences of soldiers. Attend a slam to hear their work.

55. Create a military-inspired playlist

Put together a playlist of songs that celebrate the military or that soldiers would enjoy.

56. Attend a military-themed storytelling event

Listen to stories told by soldiers or their family members at a storytelling event.

57. Host a military-themed paint night

Get creative and paint a picture inspired by the military.

58. Attend a military-themed opera concert

Many opera singers perform songs that honor the military. Attend a concert to hear their work.

59. Create a military-inspired video tribute

Make a video tribute that honors the sacrifices of our troops. Share it on social media or at an event.

60. Attend a military-themed documentary screening

Watch a documentary that tells the stories of soldiers and their experiences.

61. Attend a Military Parade – Many cities organize military parades on Armed Forces Day to honor the service of military personnel. Attend a parade near you and show support by waving flags or cheering.

62. Host a Care Package Drive – Organize a care package drive for troops stationed abroad. Encourage people in your community to donate items such as toiletries, snacks, and reading material to be shipped overseas.

63. Volunteer at a VA Hospital – Spend time with veterans at a VA hospital or nursing home. Listen to their stories, offer companionship, or help with activities.

64. Support Military Families – Reach out to military families in your community and offer to help with childcare, household chores, or errands to ease the burden of their loved one’s deployment.

65. Fly the U.S. Flag – Display the American flag at your home or business to show support for the military.

66. Organize a Fundraiser – Host a fundraiser to raise money for organizations that support military personnel and their families.

67. Participate in a 5K – Many cities organize 5K runs/walks on Armed Forces Day to raise awareness and funds for military organizations.

68. Write Letters to Troops – Write letters of appreciation and encouragement to troops stationed overseas. Organizations such as Operation Gratitude can help facilitate getting the letters to those in need.

69. Attend a Memorial Service – Attend a Memorial Day service in your community to honor fallen soldiers and their families.

70. Create a Tribute Video – Use social media to create a tribute video honoring military personnel and their families. Share personal stories or photos to help raise awareness and show gratitude.

71. Honor Veterans in Business – Offer discounts or free services to veterans on Armed Forces Day to show appreciation for their service.

72. Visit Battlefields or Memorials – Visit a battlefield or memorial to learn more about the history of the military and pay respects to those who have served.

73. Send a Military-Themed Care Package – Send a military-themed care package to a deployed service member. Ideas for items to include could be books on military history, a U.S. flag patch, and snacks.

74. Host a Military History Trivia Night – Organize a trivia night at a local bar or restaurant focused on military history. Donate proceeds to military charities.

75. Attend a Military Ball – Many cities host formal military balls to honor servicemen and women. Dress up and attend an event near you.

76. Create a Patriotic Art Project – Host an art class or workshop focused on creating patriotic artwork to honor the military.

77. Display a Yellow Ribbon – Display a yellow ribbon on your property or vehicle to show support for troops serving overseas.

78. Donate to Military Charities – Donate to organizations such as the Wounded Warrior Project, Operation Homefront, and Fisher House Foundation that support military personnel and their families.

79. Visit a Military Museum – Visit a military museum to learn more about the history of the military and its impact on our country.

80. Flyover by Military Planes – Keep an eye out for flyovers by military planes on Armed Forces Day in your area.

81. Attend a Military Vehicle Show – Many cities host military vehicle shows featuring vintage and modern military vehicles. Attend one and learn more about these amazing machines.

82. Support Troops Stationed Abroad – Join a pen pal program or write letters to troops stationed overseas to show them that they are not forgotten.

83. Plant a Patriotic Garden – Use red, white, and blue flowers and plants to create a patriotic garden in your yard or community garden.

84. Make a Donation in Honor of a Service Member – Make a donation to a military charity in honor of a friend, family member, or loved one who has served in the military.

85. Participate in a Veterans Day Parade – Join a Veterans Day parade in your community to show support for military personnel and their families.

86. Organize a Book Drive – Collect books on military history, biographies, and memoirs to donate to libraries or book clubs.

87. Host a Military Family Appreciation Day – Organize a day of fun activities for military families in your community to show appreciation for their sacrifices.

88. Create a Care Package for a Veteran – Create a care package for a veteran in your community. Include items such as toiletries, snacks, and reading material.

89. Attend a Military Memorial Dedication – Attend a dedication ceremony for a military memorial in your community.

90. Create a Patriotic Playlist – Compile a playlist of patriotic songs to honor the military and its service members. Share it with friends and family.

91. Host a military-themed game night

Gather your friends and family and organize a game night with military-themed games such as Battleship, Risk, Call of Duty or even a game of paintball.

92. Attend a military airshow

Look for nearby military airshows and attend one to witness incredible aerial displays and learn more about aviation in the military.

93. Bring a veteran to a sporting event

Show your appreciation by inviting a veteran to watch their favorite team compete or take them to a sporting event they’ve never been to before.

94. Participate in a charity run/walk

Participate in a charity run or walk to support a military-related cause such as wounded veterans or supporting military families.

95. Watch a patriotic movie

Gather your family and friends to watch a patriotic movie like Saving Private Ryan, American Sniper, or Top Gun.

96. Write letters to troops

Take some time to write letters of appreciation to military personnel overseas to show them that you care and appreciate their service.

97. Create care packages

Create care packages filled with items like snacks, toiletries, and entertainment for soldiers overseas.

98. Visit a military museum

Learn more about military history and honor the sacrifices of those who have served by visiting a military museum.

99. Attend a patriotic concert

Celebrate and honor the armed forces by attending a patriotic concert that features military bands or patriotic songs.

100. Volunteer at a VA hospital or local veteran’s center

Show your appreciation by volunteering at a VA hospital or local veteran’s center and help improve the quality of life for our nation’s heroes.

101. Fly the American flag

Proudly fly the American flag outside your home or business in honor of Armed Forces Day.

102. Donate to a military-related charity

Honor and support the men and women of the armed forces by donating to a military-related charity.

103. Attend a military reenactment

Attend a military reenactment to learn more about the history of the armed forces and to honor those who served before us.

104. Visit a war memorial

Visit a war memorial to pay your respects to those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

105. Attend a military-themed play or musical

Attend a play or musical with a military theme like “Band of Brothers” or “A Few Good Men.”

106. Show your support on social media

Share inspiring messages, photos, and videos on social media to show your appreciation for the sacrifices that our military men and women make daily.

107. Host a BBQ or picnic

Invite friends and family over for a BBQ or picnic to celebrate Armed Forces Day and spend quality time together.

108. Wear patriotic clothing or accessories

Show your pride for the United States and the armed forces by wearing patriotic clothing or accessories.

109. Learn a military cadence

Learn a military cadence like “Left, Right, Left” and march to the beat in honor of Armed Forces Day.

110. Attend a military ball

Attend a military ball to honor those who are currently serving and those who have served.

111. Watch a military documentary

Learn more about military history, technology, and strategy by watching an informative military documentary.

112. Create a military care package drive

Organize a community-wide effort to create care packages to send to soldiers overseas.

113. Take a guided tour of a military base

Take a guided tour of a military base to learn more about the day-to-day life of service members.

114. Attend a wreath-laying ceremony

Attend a wreath-laying ceremony at a local military cemetery or monument to honor those who have fallen in service.

115. Read a book about military history

Expand your knowledge of military history by reading a book about notable events in the history of the armed forces.

116. Take a self-defense class

Learn basic self-defense and combat techniques taught to members of the armed forces to better appreciate their training and skill.

117. Attend a flag-raising ceremony

Attend a flag-raising ceremony at your local government building or military base to honor our nation’s flag.

118. Participate in a military-style obstacle course

Test your strength and endurance by participating in a military-style obstacle course like Tough Mudder or Spartan Race.

119. Send a care package to a military family

Show your appreciation for military families by sending them a care package filled with items like gift cards, toys, and books.

120. Visit a military cemetery

Take a moment to visit a military cemetery to pay your respects and honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

121. Host a military-style boot camp

Organize a military-style boot camp workout to honor the physical training that service members undergo.

122. Write a letter to a military family

Write a letter of appreciation to a military family, expressing gratitude for their loved one’s service and sacrifice.

123. Watch a military parade

Attend or watch a televised military parade to honor and celebrate our armed forces.

124. Visit a military ship or submarine

Take a tour of a military ship or submarine to learn more about naval forces and the technology they utilize.

125. Go on a hiking trip to honor veterans

Plan a hiking trip to a place of significance to honor veterans and their service.

126. Organize a fundraiser for military families

Organize a fundraiser to support military families in your community.

127. Attend a military ball

Attend a formal military ball to honor active or retired military personnel.

128. Volunteer your time at a local VA hospital

Donate your time and skills to a local VA hospital to help support and care for veterans in need.

129. Attend a military-themed play or movie

Attend a production or screening of a military-themed play or movie like “A Soldier’s Story” or “The Hurt Locker”.

130. Learn about a veteran’s story

Listen to the story of a veteran to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of their experiences.

131. Dedicate a day to military service

Spend a day giving back to your community or volunteering in honor of military service members.

132. Create a patriotic craft

Make a patriotic craft like a flag or a wreath to show your appreciation for the sacrifices made by those in the military.

133. Attend a military history lecture

Attend a military history lecture to learn more about significant events in the history of the armed forces.

134. Visit a military base overseas

If you have the opportunity, visit a military base overseas to experience the daily life of service members and gain a unique perspective.

135. Host a USO-style concert

Host a concert with military bands or patriotic music to honor and support the armed forces.

136. Attend a military reunion

Attend a military reunion to connect with veterans and their families, and show your appreciation for their sacrifice.

137. Create a tribute wall

Create a tribute wall with photos and messages to honor service members, and display it in a public space.

138. Learn about military culture

Take time to learn about military culture, including customs, traditions, and language.

139. Write a thank you note to a service member

Send a handwritten note of appreciation to a service member to show gratitude for their sacrifice and service.

140. Attend a remembrance ceremony

Attend a remembrance ceremony to honor fallen soldiers and their families.

141. Visit a military training camp

Tour a military training camp to learn about the rigorous physical and mental preparation required of service members.

142. Participate in a flag retirement ceremony

Participate in or organize a flag retirement ceremony to properly retire and honor a worn American flag.

143. Host a care package stuffing party

Organize a care package stuffing party to send packages to service members stationed overseas.

144. Watch an army-inspired fashion show

Attend a fashion show inspired by army clothing and gear to appreciate the functionality and durability of military attire.

145. Create a military-style workout plan

Create a workout plan inspired by military training to honor the physical strength and endurance required of service members.

146. Participate in a military memorial run

Participate in a memorial run to honor and remember fallen service members.

147. Attend a military ball

Attend a formal military ball to honor active or retired military personnel.

148. Visit a military hospital or rehabilitation center

Visit a military hospital or rehabilitation center to show appreciation for the sacrifices made by service members and their families.

149. Write a letter to a soldier

Take a few minutes to express your gratitude and appreciation for the sacrifices made by our brave soldiers. You can send your letter to any military base or organization that facilitates letters to service members.

150. Create a care package

Put together a collection of items that a soldier might appreciate, such as snacks, books, magazines, or toiletries, and send it to a military base or organization that facilitates care packages for deployed soldiers.

151. Attend a Veterans Day parade

Many cities host parades to honor veterans on Armed Forces Day. Check your local listings and attend one of these parades to show your support.

152. Learn about military history

Educate yourself about the history of the military and how it has shaped our world today. Visit a museum or read a book about military history to learn more.

153. Watch a military-themed movie

Many movies have been made about the military and the sacrifices made by our service members. Pick a movie and watch it with friends or family to honor those who have served.

154. Volunteer at a VA hospital

Spend time at a VA hospital helping veterans in need. Whether it's reading to them, playing games, or just spending time talking, your presence will be appreciated.

155. Donate to a military charity

There are many organizations that support military families and veterans. Choose one and make a donation to help them continue their important work.

156. Take a veteran out to lunch

If you know a veteran, take them out to lunch and spend time listening to their stories and learning from their experiences.

157. Fly a flag

Show your support for the military by flying a flag outside your home or business. This is a simple but powerful way to honor those who have served.

158. Participate in a memorial run

Many cities host memorial runs to honor fallen service members. Participate in one of these events to show your support and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

159. Attend a military ball

Military balls are formal events that honor service members and their families. Attend one of these events to show your support and dance the night away in honor of our brave soldiers.

160. Visit a military cemetery

Take a moment to visit a military cemetery and pay your respects to those who have given their lives in service to our country.

161. Plant a memorial tree

Planting a tree in honor of a fallen service member is a beautiful way to remember their sacrifice and help the environment at the same time.

162. Attend a wreath-laying ceremony

Many organizations host wreath-laying ceremonies to honor fallen service members. Attend one of these events to show your support and pay your respects.

163. Host a military-themed party

Invite friends and family over for a military-themed party. Decorate with flags and memorabilia, and serve military-themed food and drinks.

164. Make a donation to a military museum

Many museums rely on donations to continue their work preserving military history. Make a donation to a military museum to help them continue their important work.

165. Host a fundraiser for a military charity

Organize a fundraiser to raise money for a military charity. You can do anything from a bake sale to a silent auction – get creative!

166. Visit a military base

Many military bases offer tours or open houses to the public. Take advantage of this opportunity to learn more about the life of a service member.

167. Write a blog post about a veteran

Share the story of a veteran on your blog or social media. This is a great way to honor their service and educate others about the sacrifices made by our service members.

168. Attend a military reenactment

Military reenactments are events where people dress up in period costumes and reenact battles or other historical events. Attend one of these events to see history come alive.

169. Participate in a flag ceremony

Many organizations host flag-raising or lowering ceremonies. Participate in one of these events to show your support for the military.

170. Visit a military monument

Take a moment to visit a military monument and pay your respects to those who have served our country.

171. Watch a military flyover

Many air shows feature military planes doing flyovers. Attend one of these events to see these incredible planes in action.

172. Attend a military concert

Many military bands perform concerts throughout the year. Attend one of these events to hear some great music and show your support for the military.

173. Make a patriotic craft

Get crafty and make a patriotic-themed craft, such as a wreath or a flag. Display your creation proudly to show your support for the military.

174. Attend a military graduation

Many military schools and academies hold graduations throughout the year. Attend one of these events to show your support for the next generation of service members.

175. Visit a war memorial

Take a moment to visit a war memorial and pay your respects to those who

. Attend a military-inspired art exhibit

Many art exhibits focus on the military and the impact it has had on our world. Attend one of these exhibits to gain a different perspective on the sacrifices made by our service members.

177. Participate in a charity walk or run

Many organizations hold charity walks or runs to raise money for military charities. Take part in one of these events to show your support and stay active.

178. Host a military-themed game night

Invite friends and family over for a game night featuring military-themed games such as Stratego or Risk. This is a fun way to honor our service members while enjoying time with loved ones.

179. Write a thank you note to a veteran

Take a moment to write a thank you note to a veteran. Let them know how much you appreciate their service and sacrifice.

180. Attend a military ballgame

Many sports teams host military appreciation days where service members can attend games for free or at a discounted rate. Attend one of these games to show your support for the military.

181. Volunteer at a veteran's organization

Spend time volunteering at an organization that helps veterans, such as a homeless shelter or job training program.

182. Participate in a service project

Many organizations hold service projects to benefit military families and veterans. Take part in one of these projects to make a difference in your community.

183. Learn a military skill

Take a class or workshop to learn a military skill such as shooting or survival techniques. This is a unique way to gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by our service members.

184. Attend a military-themed play

Many theaters produce plays that focus on the military and the sacrifices made by our service members. Attend one of these plays to gain a deeper understanding of the impact of war.

185. Make a military-themed playlist

Create a playlist of songs that honor the military and the sacrifices made by our service members. Share it with friends and family to spread awareness.

186. Participate in a virtual race

Many organizations offer virtual races where participants can run or walk on their own time and support a military charity. Sign up for one of these races to show your support and stay active.

187. Attend a military-themed book club

Join a book club that focuses on military-themed books. This is a great way to learn more about the experiences of our service members.

188. Share a military-themed quote

Share a quote that inspires you and honors the sacrifices made by our service members. This is a simple but powerful way to show your support.

189. Create a military-themed art project

Get creative and make an art project that honors the military, such as a painting or sculpture. Display it proudly to show your support.

190. Participate in a military-themed workout class

Many gyms offer military-themed workout classes that simulate the training of our service members. Attend one of these classes to challenge yourself and honor our soldiers.

191. Host a military trivia night

Gather friends and family for a trivia night featuring questions about the military and its history. This is a fun way to learn while honoring our service members.

192. Attend a military-themed lecture

Many universities and libraries host lectures about the military and its impact on our world. Attend one of these lectures to gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by our service members.

193. Take a military-inspired fitness challenge

Many organizations offer fitness challenges inspired by military training. Sign up for one of these challenges to push yourself and show your support for the military.

194. Watch a military-themed documentary

Many documentaries have been made about the military and the sacrifices made by our service members. Watch one of these documentaries to gain a better understanding of the impact of war.

195. Donate blood

Donating blood is a great way to support our service members who may need blood transfusions. Contact a local blood bank to schedule a donation.

196. Attend a military-themed photography exhibit

Many photography exhibits focus on the military and its impact on our world. Attend one of these exhibits to gain a different perspective on the sacrifices made by our service members.

197. Write a military-inspired poem

Get creative and write a poem that honors the military and the sacrifices made by our service members. Share it with others to spread awareness.

198. Attend a military-themed comedy show

Many comedians have created shows that focus on military experiences and humor. Attend one of these shows to laugh while honoring our service members.

199. Host a military-themed barbecue

Invite friends and family over for a barbecue featuring military-themed food and decorations. This is a fun way to honor our service members while enjoying time with loved ones.

200. Participate in a virtual veteran's day event

Many organizations offer virtual events to celebrate Veterans Day and honor our service members. Participate in one of these events to show your support and learn more about the sacrifices made by our soldiers.

201. Host a patriotic movie night

Gather some friends and family, fire up the projector or TV, and watch some of the most patriotic movies ever made. Some great options include "Top Gun," "Saving Private Ryan," and "Black Hawk Down."

202. Write letters to deployed troops

Take some time to write letters to soldiers who are currently serving overseas. Share your gratitude and appreciation for their service and sacrifice.

203. Organize a care package drive

Get your community involved in sending care packages to troops overseas. Gather items such as snacks, toiletries, books, and other small gifts and ship them to soldiers who could use a little extra support.

204. Visit a veterans' home

Spend some time with veterans at a local veterans' home, hearing their stories and showing your support for their service.

205. Attend a military-themed event

Look for events in your area that celebrate the military, such as air shows, parades, and military museum exhibits.

206. Participate in a charity run

Sign up for a charity run that benefits veterans or military families. Not only will you get some exercise, but you'll also be supporting a great cause.

207. Attend a concert

Check out a concert by one of the many talented military bands, such as the United States Army Field Band or the United States Air Force Band.

208. Volunteer at a VA hospital

Spend some time volunteering at a local VA hospital, assisting with patient activities or helping out in the cafeteria.

209. Get involved with a military support organization

There are many organizations that support military families, such as the Fisher House Foundation or Operation Homefront. Find one that resonates with you and get involved.

210. Visit a military memorial

Pay your respects at a military memorial, such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial or the National World War II Memorial.

211. Donate to a military charity

If you can't volunteer your time, consider making a donation to a military charity such as the Wounded Warrior Project or the USO.

212. Attend a flag-raising ceremony

Many communities hold flag-raising ceremonies on Armed Forces Day. Attend one to show your support for our troops.

213. Host a barbecue

Invite friends and family over for a barbecue, and use the opportunity to discuss the sacrifices made by our military personnel.

214. Read a book about the military

There are many great books about military history and the experiences of soldiers in combat. Take some time to read one and gain a greater appreciation for our military.

215. Fly a flag

Show your patriotism by flying an American flag outside your home or business.

216. Make a patriotic craft

Get creative with some red, white, and blue crafting materials and make something patriotic to display.

217. Attend a wreath-laying ceremony

Wreath-laying ceremonies are held at many military memorials and cemeteries on Armed Forces Day. Attend one to honor those who have served our country.

218. Visit a military museum

Learn more about our military history by visiting a military museum, such as the National Museum of the United States Air Force or the National Museum of the Marine Corps.

219. Watch a military documentary

There are many great documentaries that explore military history and warfare. Take some time to watch one and gain a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by our troops.

220. Write a thank-you note to a veteran

Take some time to write a personal note of thanks to a veteran in your life or in your community.

221. Participate in a flag relay

Some communities organize flag relays on Armed Forces Day, where participants run a designated route while carrying an American flag.

222. Attend a military ball

Military balls are formal events that honor military personnel and their families. Attend one to show your support and celebrate our troops.

223. Make a donation to a military museum

Many military museums rely on donations to continue their operations. Consider making a donation to one of these organizations to support our military history.

224. Visit a military cemetery

Pay your respects at a military cemetery, such as Arlington National Cemetery.

225. Attend a military reenactment

Watch a reenactment of a historical military battle or event to gain a greater appreciation for the sacrifices made by our troops.

226. Participate in a memorial walk/run

Many communities organize memorial walks and runs on Armed Forces Day to honor those who have served in the military.

227. Host a flag-honoring ceremony

Organize a flag-honoring ceremony in your community, where individuals can share stories and memories about their loved ones who have served in the military.

228. Attend a military-themed play

Many theaters put on productions that explore military themes and experiences. Attend one to gain a greater understanding of our military history.

229. Make a patriotic dessert

Whip up a red, white, and blue dessert to enjoy with friends and family on Armed Forces Day.

230. Attend a military-themed lecture

Many universities and other organizations offer lectures that explore military history and current military events. Attend one to learn more about our military.

231. Participate in a flag retirement ceremony

Properly dispose of old or worn American flags by participating in a flag retirement ceremony.

232. Hold a moment of silence

Take a moment of silence on Armed Forces Day to honor the sacrifices made by our troops.

233. Watch a military-themed movie marathon

Spend the day watching a series of military-themed movies, such as "Band of Brothers," "The Pacific," and "Full Metal Jacket."

234. Visit a military reunion

Attend a military reunion or homecoming event to show your support for returning troops.

235. Make a patriotic playlist

Create a playlist of patriotic songs to listen to throughout the day.

236. Attend a military-themed art exhibit

Many museums feature exhibits that explore military themes and experiences through art. Attend one to gain a greater understanding of our military history.

237. Send a care package to a military family

Military families often make many sacrifices to support their loved ones who are serving. Send a care package filled with treats and other small items to show your appreciation.

238. Host a fundraiser for a military charity

Organize a fundraiser to raise money for a military charity, such as a bake sale or car wash.

239. Attend a military-themed play or musical

Many theaters put on productions that explore military themes and experiences through drama and music. Attend one to gain a greater understanding of our military history.

240. Visit a military installation

Arrange a visit to a local military installation to learn more about how our troops train and operate.

241. Create a patriotic photo album

Put together a photo album filled with pictures of family members who have served in the military, as well as images that celebrate our country.

242. Attend a military-themed poetry reading

Many poets have written about military experiences and themes. Attend a poetry reading or open mic night to hear these works.

243. Participate in a military-themed escape room

Many escape rooms feature military themes and challenges, giving participants a taste of what it's like to be in the military.

244. Organize a military history scavenger hunt

Create a scavenger hunt that takes participants to different locations related to military history and current events.

245. Host a flag-making contest

Encourage friends and family members to create their own flags that represent their love of country and support for our troops.

246. Attend a military-themed book club

Join a book club that focuses on military-related books and literature.

247. Watch a military-themed TV series

Spend some time binge-watching a military-themed TV show, such as "NCIS," "JAG," or "The Unit."

248. Participate in a military-themed trivia night

Test your knowledge of military history and current events by participating in a trivia night focused on these topics.

249. Host a patriotic karaoke night

Sing your heart out to patriotic songs with friends and family members.

250. Attend a military-themed dance performance

Many dance companies feature military themes and movements in their performances. Attend one to gain a greater appreciation for our military history.

251. Read biographies of military heroes

Learn more about the lives and sacrifices of military heroes by reading their biographies.

252. Attend a military baptism or christening

Many military families baptize or christen their children in military chapels. Attend one to show your support for these families.

253. Send care packages to K9 units

Don't forget about the four-legged members of our military! Send care packages to K9 units to show your appreciation for their service.

254. Participate in a military-themed virtual event

Many organizations offer virtual events that explore military themes and experiences. Participate in one to learn more about our military.

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255. Create a patriotic work of art

Use paints, markers, or other materials to create a piece of artwork that celebrates our country and our troops.