The month of May doesn't really give us a whole lot other than warmer weather and the end of a long and grueling school year. Okay, so it gives us more than most months. What we often forget is that May gives us one of the most underrated holidays to ever exist: Memorial Day. Here are just 11 reasons why Memorial Day should be at the top of your favorite holidays.

Days are longer, nights are warmer and for most school is finally out. Memorial Day is the start of summer and for students it means less responsibility while for adults it means we get to do the same things we usually do just with more sweat.

Sure we can say that Christmas and Easter have a greater meaning behind them that is more than just presents and candy. However, most forget about that. Memorial Day is specifically for remembering our loved ones and those that have lost their lives fighting for our country.

3. A day to honor our veterans

We use this day to honor those that have made the ultimate sacrifice in order to live our lives just as we do everyday.

4. Pre 4th of July

Have you been waiting for the opportune time to wear your patriotic swim trunks? Dying to wear your USA gear and scream “’Merica” but don’t want to wait until July? Thank goodness Memorial Day is around!

5. Fireworks

Speaking of the 4^th of July what’s better than summer and fireworks? Absolutely nothing. The lingering smell of firework smoke and bug spray is equivalent to all things happy.

So. Much. Food. Any food that reminds you of summer will be there. I'm talking watermelon, hot dogs, hamburgers, corn on the cob... I think you get the picture.

7. Family and friends everywhere

For a lot of families, Memorial Day is when they have their family reunions. This could be the one of the only times they see each other for the whole year. Friends come into town after a long year away in order to pick right back up where they left off.

8. Fishing fanatics: this is your time to shine

It's not a holiday weekend if you aren't out there on a boat ripping' lips with your best friends.

9. Camping

Whether you rough it in a tent or live the luxurious life in a camper, for most Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the camping season. A time to get away from the hustle and bustle of the real world in order to go back to your roots in nature.

10. Booze, booze and more booze

Those beer sales are calling your name when you walk into the grocery store and don't stop until you set a few in your cart. There's nothing wrong with a little alcohol over a holiday weekend as long as you're doing it responsibly.

11. Three day weekend

My personal (second) favorite part of Memorial Day is the three day weekend that goes along with it. If you're lucky enough to work a government job or at a store or restaurant that gives you the day off, count your blessings.