Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer — a time for outdoor gatherings, road trips, BBQs, and a well-earned extra day off. Whether you’re hosting friends and family or showing up with a side dish and a cooler, your gear matters.
This isn’t about disposable decor or one-time-use gimmicks. These are must-haves designed to last — items that feel thoughtful, functional, and built for every summer weekend to come.
Let’s break down the 5 essentials you’ll want on hand to kick off Memorial Day weekend in style.
💡 5 Essentials for Memorial Day Weekend (and Why)
🧊 1. Pure Copper Mugs for Ice-Cold Cocktails 
If you’re mixing drinks — or just want to serve sparkling water with a slice of lime — there’s nothing more impactful than a set of handcrafted copper mugs.
They’re not just beautiful (though they are). These mugs:
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Chill instantly and stay cold longer than glass or stainless
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Add visual appeal to any bar cart, picnic table, or poolside setup
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Work for cocktails, mocktails, iced tea, or even cold brew
Hosting? They look amazing next to a pitcher of Moscow Mule mix. Heading to someone else’s party? They make a phenomenal host gift.
Explore Moscow Mix’s collection of pure copper mugs — available in 2- and 4-pack sets, ready to elevate any summer gathering.
💡 Want to serve something fresh? Try this Strawberry Lime Mule — it’s a bright, seasonal twist that pairs perfectly with copper.
🍉 2. A Durable (and Good-Looking) Outdoor Cooler
The cooler often becomes the unsung hero of Memorial Day weekend. Whether you’re tailgating, hosting at home, or heading to the beach, it’s the one item that keeps everything running smoothly — and chilled.
A well-made cooler does more than just hold drinks. It becomes a portable bar, a side table, and even extra seating in a pinch. That’s why it pays to invest in one that’s not only functional but also built to last.
Look for coolers that offer:
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All-day ice retention, even in direct sun
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Durable latches, wheels, or handles for transport
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Easy-clean interiors for quick turnaround between events
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Neutral or stylish exterior finishes that look great by the grill or on your deck
Some models even offer features like built-in bottle openers, cup holders, or dry storage trays — making them perfect for Memorial Day and every weekend after.
We’re fans of coolers like the YETI Roadie for their size, performance, and minimalist design. They’re built tough, easy to clean, and low-key stylish — exactly what summer hosting calls for.
And if you’re headed to someone else’s gathering? Bringing your own cooler filled with drinks and ice shows you’re prepared, generous, and thoughtful — no one forgets the guest who keeps everyone’s drinks cold.
🌿 3. Reusable Tableware That Doesn’t Feel Like a Chore 
Skip the flimsy paper plates and invest in reusable outdoor-friendly serveware that actually enhances the experience. We’re talking:
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Enamelware dishes
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Stainless steel utensils
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Linen napkins
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Bamboo cutting boards for serving snacks or drinks
It’s better for the environment and makes your setup feel instantly elevated. No sad soggy plates or forks that break mid-bite.
🔥 4. A Grill Setup That Works at Home or Away
You don’t need a giant smoker to make great Memorial Day food. A compact, portable grill gives you the flexibility to host at home, tailgate, or cook at the park.
Look for one that’s:
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Easy to transport and clean
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Charcoal or propane-based depending on your cooking style
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Big enough to handle a round of burgers, dogs, or veggie skewers
We like the Weber Q1200, which fits in small patios and car trunks alike. Pair it with a tray of pre-marinated kebabs and a cold drink in a copper mug? Instant summer magic.
🎇 5. Something Personal (That Actually Gets Used)
Instead of a random flag-themed towel or novelty cup, go for something that feels meaningful and multi-functional. That might be:
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A handmade playlist
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A pack of cards or outdoor games
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A set of mugs or glasses they’ll use all summer
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A wellness-focused gift like a copper water bottle for on-the-go hydration
A gift like that adds to the experience — without becoming clutter. And if you’re the one hosting? These are also perfect parting gifts that won’t get left behind.
👉 Want to go the elevated route? Our pure copper water bottles make a statement — perfect for summer road trips, picnics, or beach days.
📈 Outcome: Why These Essentials Matter
Memorial Day isn’t just about one weekend. It’s the gateway to summer — a season full of backyard hangs, outdoor dinners, and last-minute road trips.
When you invest in long-lasting summer essentials, you’re not just planning for one day. You’re setting yourself up for a season of better hosting, smarter packing, and more enjoyable moments.
From pure copper mugs that work for any drink to reusable serveware and versatile coolers, these are the kinds of upgrades that keep paying off all summer long.
🌿 For more ideas on intentional summer living, check out Harvard Health’s guide to sustainable summer habits.
🏁 Conclusion
You don’t need a dozen themed decorations or a massive spread to enjoy Memorial Day weekend. What you need are a few well-chosen essentials that feel good to use — and look even better on your table.
Start with a set of handcrafted copper mugs that deliver on chill, style, and timeless versatility. Add in durable serveware, a portable grill, and a cooler you’ll use all year — and suddenly, you’re not just showing up. You’re showing up prepared.
✨ Cheers to summer done right — starting with the 4th mug you’ll want to use every weekend.