Let’s celebrate the gorgeous month of May! Find out why this month is called “May,” and which holidays are coming up.
The Month of May
May is probably named after Maia, the Roman goddess of plant growth. Alternatively, the name might have come from the Latin maiores, “elders.”
May Calendar
• May 1 is May Day. Mark the return of spring by bringing in branches of forsythia, lilacs, or other flowering shrubs from your region. May Day is also “Lei Day” in Hawaii. Leis are garlands or wreaths that are often made with native Hawaiian flowers such as plumeria. Nowadays, they are given as a symbol of greeting, farewell, affection, celebration, or honor, in the spirit of aloha.
• May 5 is Cinco de Mayo (The Fifth of May). This day celebrates the victory of the Mexican army over the French army at The Battle of Puebla in 1862. Discover Mexican American recipes and ways to celebrate Cinco de Mayo!
• May 11 is Mother’s Day—don’t forget! Do you have something planned to show appreciation for your mother or the mothers in your life?
• May 17 is Armed Forces Day, which honors those who serve in all branches of the United States military.
• May 19 is Victoria Day in Canada. This holiday celebrates the birthday of Queen Victoria, who was born on May 24, 1819. The holiday is observed on the penultimate Monday in May.
• May 22 is National Maritime Day. Created in commemoration of the first transoceanic voyage via steamboat (completed by the U.S.S. Savannah in 1819), this holiday recognizes the efforts of the U.S. Merchant Marine during both war and peace.
• May 26 is Memorial Day—a poignant reminder of the tenacity of life. It’s tradition to raise the flag on this day.
