What things do people do on Memorial Day other than bbqs picnics fireworks and go to cemeteries?

Fireworks are not usually allowed at Memorial Day observances. The picnics and barbecues are generally just to celebrate the unofficial start of summer. Memorial Day is really to honor all military personnel who have died during all wars and military actions in which the United States has been involved. That is why people go to cemeteries. The President or his appointed representative lays a wreath at the Tomb of the Unkown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. There is a National Memorial Day Parade held in Washington DC and there are other parades held all over the nation. And there is also a National Memorial Day Concert held at the US Capitol in Washington DC.