# The Hidden History Behind 7 Classic Memorial Day Cookout Foods

- Link: https://www.widthness.com/the-hidden-history-behind-7-classic-memorial-day-cookout-foods/
- Published: 2026-05-24T09:30:00-05:00
- Author: Curated by John Wysocki

Photo credit: Aquiles Adrianza via Unsplash. Article by Nitya Rao. Mental Floss – May 22, 2026. For Americans, “Sun’s out, buns out” is the unofficial motto of Memorial Day weekend—in more ways than one. Not only is it time to shed a few layers and kick off swimming season at the local pool, but it’s the first excuse of the year to fire up the grill and drop a few patties into those pillowy potato buns. Data from the Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association shows that nearly 58% of Americans host a cookout over the long weekend, making it the second biggest grilling holiday of the year, right behind the Fourth of July. […] Click here to view original web page at www.mentalfloss.com Related articles: Memorial Day recipes: Chef Joe Isidori’s steakhouse and smoky Texas-inspired burgers – Good Morning America The Memorial Day Cookout: Honoring the Heritage of National Beef Month – Drovers Are you preparing a Memorial Day cookout? Don’t risk food poisoning – USA Today Favorite Memorial Day Recipes – Feasting at Home 30 Make-Ahead Salad Recipes for Your Memorial Day Celebration – EatingWell