The grass is green, the puddles ready for jumping, and spring is fully in bloom! There are so many to honor this month, from teachers and mothers to those who died while serving in the U.S. military. Here are 10 special family-friendly holidays and events you and your kids will want to mark in May:
National Foster Care Month May 1-31
May marks the month when we recognize families making a meaningful difference in the lives of the more than 440,000 children in foster care throughout the United States.Find out more about the important work of fostering children in Maine.
National Bike Month May 1-31
Did you know that 40 percent of all trips in the U.S. are less than two miles? That means we should all get on our bicycles more! Commit with your kids to ride your bikes as much as possible throughout May. And don't forget National Bike, Walk and Roll to School Day on May 4!
The Bicycle Coalition of Maine educates residents about bicycle safety and offers state-wide trails and events.
May Day May 1st
Spread the springtime celebration cheer by making a May Day basket for your neighbors. Here are some ideas for how to do it.
Visit the town of Kennebunk for its Annual May Day Festival on Saturday, May 7th.
Kentucky Derby May 7th
Get out the fancy hats (or make your own!) and make some fancy drinks and food to celebrate the running of the 2022 Kentucky Derby. See recipe ideas from Macaroni Kid EATS (including for an amazing mint julep!).
Celebrate by scheduling a Horse-Visit at the Maine State Society for the Protection of Animals.
Cinco de Mayo May 5th
In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is a minor holiday meant to mark the day the Mexican Army beat the French Army in the 1800s. In the United States, however, the day has turned into a giant celebration of Mexican-American culture, music, and cuisine. Check out our delicious recipes for guacamole, pico de gallo and homemade chips!
Or visit one of these Mexican Restaurants:
A La Mexicana, Raymond and Bridgton
Azul Tequila, Gorham
Lunchador Tacos, Windham and South Paris
Senorita Burrito, Windham
National Teacher Appreciation Week May 2-6
They work hard every day educating our kids. This is the week to show them your thanks.
Download our FREE PRINTABLE for kids to give their teachers!
National Provider Appreciation Day May 6th
Just like teachers, child care providers have an enormous impact on our children's lives. It takes a village, after all.
Thank your favorite child care providers by recording a video message courtesy of Child Care Aware of America
Mother's Day May 8th
It doesn't matter if the appreciation of the work you do comes in the form of a sticky hug, a handmade card, breakfast in bed, or an expensive gift. Know that you are loved today, and every day.
Everyone will have fun playing these mom-themed games from My Party Games.
National Paper Airplane Day May 26th
This simple creation has brought generations of kids joy around the world. Need inspiration? Check out the family-friendly movie "Paper Planes" now streaming on Amazon. It's based on a true story.
Or learn how to make your own paper airplanes here!
Memorial Day May 30th
Today we remember those who died serving in the U.S. military.
Here are a few ways to observe the holiday from The Memorial Day Foundation:
• Wear a Memorial Day Button from the first of May until Memorial Day.
• Visit cemeteries and place flags or flowers on the graves of our fallen heroes.
• Fly the U.S. Flag at half-staff until noon.
• Visit memorials like the Maine Veterans' Memorial Park in Raymond.
• Participate in a "National Moment of Remembrance" at 3:00 PM.
