May is packed with reasons to celebrate — and if you’re looking for easy, fun ways to connect with your kids, this is the month to do it.
From Star Wars Day and Cinco de Mayo to Mother’s Day and Memorial Day Weekend, there are so many simple ways to add a little extra fun to your everyday routine.
We’ve rounded up 13 fun May holidays and observances for families — plus easy ideas to help you actually celebrate them without adding stress to your day.
Easy Ways to Celebrate May With Kids
- Pick one holiday each week and keep it simple, whether that means a themed dinner, movie night, or quick craft.
- Let your kids choose one May celebration they want to plan themselves.
- Use holidays like Mother’s Day or Memorial Day Weekend as easy ways to build family traditions.
- Don’t overthink it. Even one small thing tied to a holiday can make the month feel more fun.
Fun May Holidays and Observances for Families
May Day
May 1
May Day, an ancient spring festival, is celebrated in many countries around the world, often with flower festivals, parades, and dancing around Maypoles. Want to mark the occasion? Leave some flowers for a neighbor to make their May Day! May 1
Read a DIY May Day how-to: May Day Baskets are a Fun Way to Celebrate Your Neighbors
 652234 | Canva |
Free Comic Book Day
May 2
Get a free comic book at participating local bookstores and comic book stores as part of this national giveaway day. That’s a serious superhero move. May 2
National Brothers and Sisters Day
May 2
They argue constantly, but sibling relationships are precious. Take time to acknowledge these family bonds today and every day. May 2
World Laughter Day
May 3
We could all use more laughs, and what better day than today? Give the kids the giggles with these jokes for kids. Warning: They just might put you in stitches too. May 3
LOL: Clean Jokes for Kids That’ll Make the Whole Family Laugh
Star Wars Day
May 4
May the 4th be with you! This fan-favorite day is the perfect excuse for a family movie night, Star Wars crafts, or letting the kids dress up as their favorite characters. May 4
 Andres R. | Canva |
National Teacher Appreciation Week
May 4-8
Teachers work hard every day to educate our kids. This is the week to show them how much we appreciate their efforts — and National Teacher Day falls on May 6, making it the perfect time to send a note or small gift.
Celebrate: Make Teacher Appreciation Week Extra Special With This Free Printable (Plus, ideas for gifts teachers really want)
Screen-Free Week
May 4-10
Screen-Free Week isn’t just about giving up screens — it’s about gaining so much more. Instead of spending an hour on YouTube, you can spend that hour outdoors. Those ten minutes of scrolling can turn into a doodling session, a family conversation, or a game of pretend.
Get outside:
- 50 Genius Backyard Activities for Kids That Beat Boredom
- Color Hunt for Kids: The 5-Minute Outdoor Game That Gets Them Moving
Cinco de Mayo
May 5
While this day originated in Mexico to mark the country’s victory over the French Army, in the U.S. it’s become a day to celebrate Mexican-American culture, music, and cuisine.
Make it: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo: Homemade Chips, Guacamole, and Pico de Gallo
National No Homework Day
May 6
No homework? Don’t mind if we do. Give the kids a break tonight and spend the extra time playing outside, having a family game night, or just relaxing together.
Make a Book Day
May 7
Break out the paper and crayons — it’s time to start drafting your masterpiece. Or at least trying. Today’s the day to have fun putting ideas on paper and flexing those creative muscles. Who knows? You might discover some hidden talents.
Mother’s Day
May 10
Whether the appreciation comes in the form of a sticky hug, a handmade card, breakfast in bed, or a little peace and quiet, know that you are loved today and every day.
Take Our Quiz: What’s Your Perfect Mother’s Day Look Like?
Dance Like a Chicken Day
May 14
Forget asking why this is a day and just embrace the fun. Queue up the music and start flapping those wings. Dance party, baby!
 Getty Images | Canva |
National Chocolate Chip Day
May 15
Cookies for dinner? We won’t tell. Bake a batch together or surprise the kids with a sweet treat after school.
Make it: Chocolate Chip Avocado Muffins
Memorial Day Weekend
May 23-25
Memorial Day Weekend is the unofficial kickoff to summer for many families, filled with backyard BBQs, park days, and time together. It’s also a meaningful opportunity to pause and remember those who died serving in the U.S. military.
Honor the day: Add small moments of reflection to your weekend — whether that’s attending a local ceremony, flying a flag, or talking with your kids about why the day matters.
National Hamburger Day
May 28
Fire up the grill or grab takeout — it’s burger night! This is the perfect excuse to try a new local spot or take advantage of any kids eat free deals in your area.
May Observances Families May Want to Talk About
May also includes observances that can help families start important conversations, build empathy, and learn together.
- National Foster Care Month (May 1–31): May is a time to recognize the incredible impact of foster families who support more than 400,000 children in the U.S. foster care system. Learn how you can help or get involved. Learn more.
- Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month (May 1–31): Celebrate the rich cultures, traditions, and stories of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, representing more than 30 countries and 100+ languages. Find books to read together.
- Mental Health Awareness Month (May 1–31): Mental health matters for the whole family. Use this month as a reminder to check in, slow down, and support one another. Find resources or read one family’s story.
- Anti-Bullying Day (May 4): Talking about bullying at home can help kids make kind, confident choices out in the world. Start the conversation.
- Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive Day (May 9): As many as 14 million U.S. children live in food-insecure households. This is a simple way to give back as a family and help your community.
Want More Family Fun?
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