Many Americans are preparing for a three day weekend, possibly fireworks and a bar-b-que with family and close friends depending on their geography or whether or not everyone has been vaccinated. Travel at O’Hare Airport in Chicago, one of the busiest airports in the United States, is up over 500% from where it was this same time last year. That’s no surprise with travel restrictions now getting lifted and many American’s feeling impatient and ready to ‘get back to normal’. The hotel industry will be prepared for the visitors with outdoor dining and entertainment. Chefs are prepared with a menus full of delicious foods prepared on commercial mobile grills.
Memorial Day is a day for Americans to come together to honor those who have served in the military and have died. It is a day of remembrance. First known as Decoration Day, Memorial Day originated in the years that followed the Civil War. Yet, it wasn’t until 1971 that Memorial Day became an official federal holiday. Customary activities on Memorial Day include visiting cemeteries or memorials, participating or attending parades, even visiting local veterans’ homes to help the members celebrate and remember their fellow service men and women that have passed away. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season.
Summer kicks off a more relaxed time of year. The days are longer, kids are counting down the hours until they are out of school. Baseball games are held at local park districts. Snack bars are filled with concession equipment that includes hot dog roller grills and steamers, popcorn machines and nacho equipment or pizza ovens.
Whether you use the holiday time to celebrate or to relax, or like many in the hospitality business – you’re working and happy to be seeing old and new customers at your venue, all of us at Cook’s wish you a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day. We remember those who served our country and are no longer with us and honor their service.
