U.S. Calendar May 2025: List of Holidays, Festivals, State Events, International Days, And Celebrations

US Calendar 2025 - Full List of Public Holidays And Observances: Dates and Celebrations

U.S. Calendar in January 2025: List of Federal Holidays, Special Days, and International Events

May is a vibrant and meaningful month in the United States, packed with federal and state holidays, heritage months, international observances, and colorful festivals. From remembering fallen heroes to celebrating nurses, teachers, mothers, and cultural legacies, May reflects the nation's values and diversity.

This comprehensive guide highlights all significant U.S. holidays, events, and special observances throughout May 2025 - perfect for planning, teaching, or simply staying informed.

1. U.S. Federal Holiday in May 2025

Memorial Day – Monday, May 26, 2025

Memorial Day in US: A Navy veteran places a flag at the foot of a soldiers gravesite during the Memorial Day Flag Placement ceremony at the Los Angeles National Cemetery

A solemn federal holiday observed on the last Monday of May, Memorial Day honors U.S. military personnel who died while serving. Ceremonies take place at cemeteries and war memorials across the country, especially at Arlington National Cemetery, where flags are placed on each grave. Traditional activities include:

• National parades in Washington, D.C., and major cities

• Local community remembrance walks

• The National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m.

• The PBS-broadcast National Memorial Day Concert

• Outdoor gatherings, BBQs, and the start of summer travel season

Read more: Memorial Day: Top 10 Activities to Honor, Travel Advice

2. Key U.S. National and State Observances

Law Day – May 1

Recognized by bar associations and schools nationwide, Law Day emphasizes the role of law in society. Events include:

• Student essay contests

• Courtroom reenactments

• Civics education seminars

Loyalty Day – May 1

A patriotic observance established in 1955 to reaffirm loyalty to the United States. Celebrated with military ceremonies and public displays of the American flag.

National Day of Prayer – May 1

This interfaith day calls Americans to unite in prayer and reflection. Churches, synagogues, mosques, and local governments often hold inclusive prayer breakfasts and gatherings.

Cinco de Mayo – May 5

While rooted in Mexican history, Cinco de Mayo is widely celebrated in the U.S. as a tribute to Mexican-American culture. Common activities:

• Street parades with mariachi bands and folklórico dancers

• Mexican food and drink festivals

• Educational programs in schools

Mother’s Day – May 11

Mother’s Day

A beloved day to honor mothers and caregivers, featuring:

• Brunches, family gatherings, and spa gifts

• Handmade cards and flowers from children

• Increased retail activity and floral sales

Peace Officers Memorial Day – May 15

Part of National Police Week, this day honors fallen law enforcement officers. Key events include:

• Candlelight vigil at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.

• Roll call of heroes and wreath-laying ceremonies

Armed Forces Day – May 17

Celebrated on the third Saturday in May, Armed Forces Day recognizes active duty members of the U.S. military. Events feature:

• Military appreciation parades

• Air and naval demonstrations

• Base open houses nationwide

National Maritime Day – May 22

Celebrates the contributions of U.S. merchant mariners and the maritime industry. Recognized with port city events, Coast Guard tributes, and educational tours.

3. Major U.S. Festivals and Events in May 2025

Kentucky Derby – May 3 (Louisville, KY)

The most prestigious horse race in the U.S., known as "The Run for the Roses." Highlights:

• Celebrities, socialites, and race fans dressed in elaborate hats

• Traditional Southern cuisine and mint juleps

• The Derby Festival, which includes fireworks, a hot-air balloon race, and live music

Bay to Breakers – May 18 (San Francisco, CA)

A 12K footrace famous for costumes and eccentric energy. Beyond the race:

• Live music stages and dance troupes along the course

• Charity fundraising and civic engagement

• Emphasis on fun, fitness, and local creativity

Spoleto Festival USA – May 23 – June 8 (Charleston, SC)

One of America's premier performing arts festivals. The lineup includes:

• International opera premieres and chamber music

• Avant-garde theater and modern dance

• Outdoor performances in historic venues

National Memorial Day Concert – May 25 (Washington, D.C.)

Held on the U.S. Capitol's West Lawn, this emotional tribute honors fallen heroes with:

• Orchestras, choirs, and celebrity readings

• Live military band performances

• Broadcast nationally by PBS and streamed online

National Asian Pacific American Heritage Month (All of May)

Recognizes the history and culture of AAPI communities. Activities include:

• Cultural fairs and food festivals

• Historical exhibits and storytelling events

• School presentations and community outreach

Jewish American Heritage Month (All of May)

Celebrated with:

• Museum tours and historical retrospectives

• Celebrations of Jewish-American music, literature, and cuisine

4. International and Global Observances Recognized in the U.S.

International Workers' Day – May 1

Though not a public holiday in the U.S., labor organizations observe the day through:

• Peaceful marches advocating labor rights

• Union-led seminars on workplace safety and benefits

World Press Freedom Day – May 3

A day to reflect on the importance of free journalism. Marked by:

• University-hosted panel discussions

• Advocacy by media organizations and nonprofits

World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day – May 8

American Red Cross initiatives include:

• Emergency preparedness training

• Volunteer drives

• Community blood donations

International Nurses Day – May 12

Healthcare institutions recognize nurses with:

• Award ceremonies

• Public thank-you campaigns

• Continuing education events

International Day of Families – May 15

Celebrated with:

• Family counseling awareness programs

• Parenting workshops

• Media campaigns on family well-being

International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia and Biphobia – May 17

Events include:

• LGBTQ+ marches and pride rallies

• Educational campaigns in schools and workplaces

World Bee Day – May 20

Eco-conscious groups hold:

• Pollinator garden workshops

• Public lectures on biodiversity

World Turtle Day – May 23

Animal welfare groups host:

• Conservation walks

• Beach clean-up and awareness efforts

World No Tobacco Day – May 31

Led by the WHO and U.S. health agencies, this day features:

• Anti-smoking ad campaigns

• Free resources for quitting tobacco

5. Weekly Observances in May 2025

• National Small Business Week: May 4–10

  Highlighting the role of entrepreneurs with workshops and SBA programs.

• Teacher Appreciation Week: May 5–9

  Schools nationwide honor teachers with assemblies, gifts, and social media campaigns.

• National Police Week: May 11–17

  Tributes and public outreach to build stronger community relations.

• Emergency Medical Services Week: May 18–24

  Celebrations of EMTs and paramedics with community CPR training and recognition events.

• Public Service Recognition Week: May 4–10

• National Hospital Week: May 11–17

• National Travel and Tourism Week: May 5–11

6. Daily Holidays and Observances in the U.S. for May 2025

• May 1: Law Day, Loyalty Day, National Day of Prayer, International Workers' Day

• May 2: National Truffle Day

• May 3: Kentucky Derby, World Press Freedom Day, National Paranormal Day

• May 4: Star Wars Day (May the Fourth), Bird Day

• May 5: Cinco de Mayo, National Astronaut Day, African World Heritage Day

• May 6: National Nurses Day, National Teacher Day

• May 7: National Tourism Day

• May 8: World Red Cross Day, National Receptionists Day

• May 9: Military Spouse Appreciation Day, National Sleepover Day

• May 10: National Clean Your Room Day

• May 11: Mother’s Day, National Technology Day

• May 12: International Nurses Day, National Limerick Day

• May 13: National Apple Pie Day

• May 14: National Dance Like a Chicken Day

• May 15: Peace Officers Memorial Day, International Day of Families

• May 16: National Bike to Work Day, National BBQ Day

• May 17: Armed Forces Day, International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia

• May 18: Bay to Breakers, International Museum Day

• May 19: National Devil’s Food Cake Day

• May 20: World Bee Day, National Rescue Dog Day

• May 21: National Waitstaff Day

• May 22: National Maritime Day, International Day for Biological Diversity

• May 23: World Turtle Day

• May 24: National Brother’s Day

• May 25: National Memorial Day Concert

• May 26: Memorial Day, National Paper Airplane Day

• May 27: National Sunscreen Day

• May 28: National Hamburger Day

• May 29: Learn About Composting Day

• May 30: National Creativity Day

• May 31: World No Tobacco Day, National Macaroon Day

Conclusion

May 2025 offers a rich blend of cultural pride, historical remembrance, and global awareness. With meaningful observances almost every day, it’s a month to reflect, celebrate, and engage with the community. Whether you're honoring military service, exploring the arts, or supporting health campaigns, May is a time to connect with the values that define America.

FAQs

Q: What is the most widely celebrated holiday in May in the U.S.?

A: Memorial Day is the most significant federal holiday in May and marks the unofficial start of summer.

Q: Are there any national observances for educators or nurses in May?

A: Yes, Teacher Appreciation Week and National Nurses Week honor educators and nurses with national campaigns.

Q: Is Cinco de Mayo a federal holiday?

A: No, but it is widely celebrated in the U.S., particularly in areas with large Mexican-American communities.

Q: Which U.S. cities host major events in May?

A: Louisville (Kentucky Derby), Charleston (Spoleto Festival), San Francisco (Bay to Breakers), and Washington D.C. (Memorial Day Concert).

Q: How can I participate in heritage month celebrations?

A: Attend cultural festivals, check local museum exhibits, or participate in educational webinars hosted by community organizations.

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