125+ Fun Facts about May

Over 100 fun facts about May for your enjoyment!

May is the fifth month of the Gregorian calendar and has 31 days. It is typically associated with the spring season in the Northern Hemisphere and the autumn season in the Southern Hemisphere. The month of May is named after the Greek goddess Maia, who was associated with fertility and growth. In many countries, May Day or Labour Day is celebrated on May 1st as a public holiday to honor the achievements of workers. In the United States, Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May to remember and honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. May is also known for the Kentucky Derby horse race, the Eurovision Song Contest, and various cultural festivals around the world.

For your enjoyment, we’ve created this list of over 100 fun facts about May.

About May
Fun Facts About May
Additional Fun Information About May
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Fun Facts About May – About May

May is the fifth month of the Gregorian calendar and has 31 days. It is typically associated with the spring season in the Northern Hemisphere and the autumn season in the Southern Hemisphere.

The month of May is named after the Greek goddess Maia, who was associated with fertility and growth. In many countries, May Day or Labour Day is celebrated on May 1st as a public holiday to honor the achievements of workers.

In the United States, Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May to remember and honor the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. military. May is also known for the Kentucky Derby horse race, the Eurovision Song Contest, and various cultural festivals around the world.

May is a month that has been recognized and celebrated for thousands of years. Here are some key moments in the history of May:

The month of May was named after the Greek goddess Maia, who was associated with spring, growth, and fertility. Maia was also the mother of the god Hermes.
In ancient Rome, May was a month dedicated to the goddess Flora, who was associated with flowers and the arrival of spring. The Romans celebrated the festival of Floralia from April 28 to May 3 to honor Flora and to mark the beginning of the spring season.
May Day or Labour Day has its roots in the medieval European tradition of celebrating the arrival of spring with festivals and dancing around a Maypole. Over time, May Day became associated with labor rights and workers’ rights movements. In 1889, the International Socialist Congress declared May 1st as International Workers’ Day to honor the Haymarket Riot in Chicago, which took place on May 1, 1886.
In the United States, Memorial Day was first observed in 1868 as a day to honor the Union soldiers who died during the American Civil War. It was originally known as Decoration Day and was observed on May 30th. Over time, Memorial Day was expanded to honor all American soldiers who died while serving in the military. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a federal holiday and was moved to the last Monday in May.
In many countries, May is associated with the spring season and is celebrated with various cultural festivals, such as Cinco de Mayo in Mexico, Vesak in Buddhism, and the Eurovision Song Contest in Europe.
May is also known for various historic events, such as the sinking of the Lusitania in 1915, the end of World War II in Europe in 1945, and the birth of Queen Victoria in 1819

Fun Facts About May – 100+ Fun Facts

Here are over 100 fun facts about May:

May is the fifth month of the year in the Gregorian calendar.
The name “May” comes from the Roman goddess Maia.
May has 31 days.
In the Northern Hemisphere, May is associated with the spring season.
In the Southern Hemisphere, May is associated with the autumn season.
The birthstone for May is the emerald.
The birth flower for May is the Lily of the Valley.
The zodiac signs for May are Taurus (April 20 – May 20) and Gemini (May 21 – June 20).
May Day or Labour Day is celebrated on May 1st in many countries around the world.
The Kentucky Derby, one of the most famous horse races in the world, is held on the first Saturday in May.
The Eurovision Song Contest is held annually in May.
Cinco de Mayo is celebrated on May 5th in Mexico and the United States.
National Nurses Week is celebrated from May 6-12 every year.
Mother’s Day is celebrated on the second Sunday in May in many countries around the world.
Memorial Day is celebrated on the last Monday in May in the United States.
The Indianapolis 500, one of the most famous car races in the world, is held on the Sunday before Memorial Day.
The Cannes Film Festival is held annually in May.
May is National Barbecue Month in the United States.
May is National Bike Month in the United States.
May is National Hamburger Month in the United States.
May is National Salad Month in the United States.
May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month in the United States.
The World Health Organization celebrates World No Tobacco Day on May 31st.
May is National Stroke Awareness Month in the United States.
May is National Arthritis Awareness Month in the United States.
May is National Mental Health Month in the United States.
May is National Military Appreciation Month in the United States.
May is National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month in the United States.
May is National Foster Care Month in the United States.
The average temperature in New York City during May is 67°F (19.4°C).
The average temperature in Los Angeles during May is 69°F (20.6°C).
The average temperature in London during May is 57°F (14°C).
The average temperature in Sydney during May is 63°F (17°C).
The word “Mayday” is used internationally as a distress signal in radio communications.
May 1st is also known as Beltane, a pagan festival celebrating the arrival of summer.
May is the last month of the meteorological spring season in the Northern Hemisphere.
In the United States, May is also known as National Electrical Safety Month.
May is National Photograph Month in the United States.
May is National Preservation Month in the United States.
May is National Wildflower Week in the United States.
May is National Bike to Work Month in the United States.
The first week of May is National Small Business Week in the United States.
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the United States.
The Eta Aquarids meteor shower is active from April 19 to May 28 every year.
The Lyrids meteor shower peaks in late April to early May every year.
The first satellite in space, Sputnik 4, was launched by the Soviet Union on May 15, 1960.
May is named after the Roman goddess of fertility, Maia, who was also associated with spring.
May is the only month in the year that has three consecutive letters that are also a word: “may”.
May is the second month of the year to have a zodiac sign split between two months, with Taurus and Gemini.
The traditional Maypole dance is still practiced in parts of Europe to celebrate May Day.
The Indianapolis 500 has been held annually in May since 1911, except for during World War I and II.
The first Academy Awards ceremony was held on May 16, 1929.
The first McDonald’s restaurant opened in Des Plaines, Illinois, on May 15, 1940.
The first Coca-Cola was sold on May 8, 1886, in Atlanta, Georgia.
The month of May is mentioned in the famous opening line of Geoffrey Chaucer’s Canterbury Tales: “Whan that Aprill with his shoures soote, the droghte of March hath perced to the roote, and bathed every veyne in swich licour, of which vertu engendred is the flour;…”
May is one of the most popular months for weddings in the United States.
In the United States, May is also known as National Moving Month.
May is the beginning of sea turtle nesting season in many parts of the world.
May is the month when cherry blossoms bloom in Japan, a time known as “Sakura season”.
The Rose Bowl, one of the most famous college football games in the United States, is held on January 1st, but it is often referred to as “The Granddaddy of Them All” because it was first played on May 1, 1902.
May is the month when many animals give birth, including deer, foxes, and rabbits.
The last Monday in May is Memorial Day in the United States, a day to honor those who have died while serving in the military.
May is one of the best months for stargazing because the skies are often clear and the weather is mild in many parts of the world.
In the United Kingdom, May is known as National Walking Month, a time to encourage people to walk more and enjoy the outdoors.
May is the month when many farmers begin planting their crops in the Northern Hemisphere.
May is the month when many birds migrate northward to breed and feed in the summer months.
The birthstone for May is the emerald, which symbolizes love and success.
The Lily of the Valley, the birth flower for May, symbolizes sweetness, humility, and happiness.
The first American newspaper was published in Boston, Massachusetts, on May 24, 1704.
The Empire State Building, one of the most famous buildings in the world, opened on May 1, 1931.
The first American space station, Skylab, was launched on May 14, 1973.
The first American space shuttle, Columbia, was launched on May 20, 1981.
The first successful transatlantic flight was made by Charles Lindbergh on May 20-21, 1927.
May is National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month in the United States, a time to educate people about the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures.
May is also National Stroke Awareness Month in the United States, a time to raise awareness about stroke, its warning signs, and how to prevent it.
The first postage stamp, the Penny Black, was issued in the United Kingdom on May 1, 1840.
The Eiffel Tower, one of the most iconic structures in the world, opened on May 6, 1889.
May is the birth month of several famous musicians, including Adele, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, and Cher.
The Cannes Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, takes place in May each year.
May is National Bike Month in the United States, a time to promote cycling as a healthy and sustainable form of transportation.
May is also Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in the United States, a time to celebrate the contributions and achievements of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
The first American Women’s Rights Convention was held in Seneca Falls, New York, on May 19-20, 1848.
The first successful heart transplant was performed by Dr. Christiaan Barnard in Cape Town, South Africa, on May 3, 1967.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month in the United States, a time to raise awareness about mental health and reduce the stigma associated with mental illness.
May is also National Physical Fitness and Sports Month in the United States, a time to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles.
The first American telegraph line, which transmitted the message “What hath God wrought?”, was completed on May 24, 1844.
The first American flag with 50 stars, representing the addition of Hawaii to the United States, was flown on May 1, 1960.
May is the month when many flowers and plants bloom, including lilacs, peonies, and irises.
The first Kentucky Derby, one of the most famous horse races in the world, was held on May 17, 1875.
The first Cannes Film Festival was held on September 20, 1946, but it was moved to May in 1952 and has been held in May ever since.
May is National Foster Care Month in the United States, a time to raise awareness about the needs of children in foster care and the importance of foster parents.
The first American stock exchange, the Philadelphia Stock Exchange, was founded on May 17, 1790.
May is National Physical Education and Sport Week in the United States, a time to promote physical activity and sports in schools.
The first American flag with 13 stripes and 50 stars, representing the addition of Alaska to the United States, was flown on July 4, 1959.
May is the month when many insects, such as butterflies and bees, begin to appear in greater numbers.
The first American submarine, the USS Holland, was launched on May 17, 1897.
May is National Military Appreciation Month in the United States, a time to honor and thank military service members for their sacrifices and service.
The first American expressway, the Pennsylvania Turnpike, opened on May 21, 1940.
May is National Water Safety Month in the United States, a time to raise awareness about the importance of water safety and drowning
May is also World Trade Month, a time to promote and celebrate international trade and the benefits it brings to the global economy.
The first American space station, Skylab, was launched on May 14, 1973.
May is National Barbecue Month in the United States, a time to enjoy outdoor grilling and barbecue with friends and family.
The first American circus, the Ricketts Circus, was established in Philadelphia in 1793 and began touring the country in May of that year.
May is National Physical Therapy Month in the United States, a time to raise awareness about the benefits of physical therapy and the role of physical therapists in healthcare.
The first American commercial jet flight, operated by National Airlines, took off from New York to Florida on May 22, 1959.
May is National Egg Month in the United States, a time to celebrate the nutritional value and versatility of eggs.
The first American space shuttle, Columbia, was launched on April 12, 1981, but its fifth mission was launched on May 11, 1986.
May is National Preservation Month in the United States, a time to celebrate historic places and the efforts to preserve them for future generations.
The first American patent, for a method of making potash, was issued on May 10, 1790.
May is National Military Appreciation Month in the United States, a time to honor and thank military service members for their sacrifices and service.
The first American woman in space, Sally Ride, launched on the space shuttle Challenger on June 18, 1983, but her selection was announced on May 23, 1982.
May is National Hamburger Month in the United States, a time to celebrate one of America’s favorite foods.
The first American Indian reservation, established by the Treaty of Fort Laramie, was created on May 26, 1868.
May is National Mediterranean Diet Month in the United States, a time to promote the health benefits of the Mediterranean diet and lifestyle.
The first American Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, was observed on May 30, 1868, to honor the Union soldiers who died in the Civil War.
May is National Moving Month in the United States, a time when many people move to new homes or apartments.
The first American newspaper, Publick Occurrences Both Forreign and Domestick, was published in Boston on September 25, 1690, but it was suppressed after its first issue. The first successful American newspaper, the Boston News-Letter, began publishing in April 1704 and continued into May.
May is National Hystiocytosis Awareness Month in the United States, a time to raise awareness about histiocytic disorders and support research for a cure.
The first American cookbook, American Cookery by Amelia Simmons, was published in Hartford, Connecticut, in 1796.
May is National Salad Month in the United States, a time to enjoy fresh and healthy salads with a variety of ingredients.

Fun Facts About May – 25 Fun Facts for Kids

Here are 25 fun facts about May that kids might enjoy:

May is the fifth month of the year.
The birthstone for May is the emerald.
The flower for May is the lily of the valley.
May Day is celebrated on May 1st and is a spring festival in many cultures.
The Kentucky Derby, one of the most famous horse races in the world, is held on the first Saturday in May.
May 4th is Star Wars Day, celebrating the popular movie franchise.
The Indianapolis 500, a famous car race, is held on Memorial Day weekend in May.
May 5th is Cinco de Mayo, a Mexican holiday celebrating the country’s victory over France in 1862.
The largest continent in the world, Asia, celebrates Buddha’s birthday in May.
May is National Bike Month, a time to promote biking as a healthy and eco-friendly form of transportation.
May 12th is National Limerick Day, celebrating the humorous five-line poem.
May is National Photograph Month, a time to explore the art of photography.
The Full Flower Moon, named for the blooming of flowers in May, is the full moon of the month.
May is National Hamburger Month, a time to enjoy this popular food.
May is also National Barbecue Month in the United States.
May is National Military Appreciation Month, a time to honor and thank military service members.
May is National Mediterranean Diet Month, a time to learn about and enjoy the healthy Mediterranean diet.
May 13th is National Apple Pie Day, celebrating this popular dessert.
The first American circus was established in Philadelphia in May 1793.
May 15th is National Chocolate Chip Day, celebrating the delicious cookie ingredient.
May 16th is Love a Tree Day, a time to appreciate the importance of trees for the environment.
May 18th is National Cheese Souffle Day, celebrating this classic French dish.
May 23rd is World Turtle Day, a time to learn about and protect these fascinating creatures.
May 25th is National Wine Day, celebrating the delicious beverage.
May 28th is National Hamburger Day, a time to enjoy this classic American food.

Fun Facts About May – May Legends

There are a few legends and stories associated with May:

May is associated with various legends and folklore around the world. Here are a few examples:

The Maypole: A popular tradition in many countries is the Maypole dance, where people dance around a tall pole decorated with ribbons and flowers. The origins of this tradition are unclear, but it may have started as a pagan ritual to celebrate the return of spring.

Beltane: May 1st is also known as Beltane, a Celtic festival that marks the beginning of summer. It is a time when the veil between the human and fairy worlds is said to be thin, and people often light bonfires and leave offerings for the fairies.

Robin Hood: According to legend, Robin Hood and his band of Merry Men would emerge from Sherwood Forest each May Day to participate in the festivities. This may have been inspired by the medieval custom of electing a “Lord of Misrule” to lead the celebrations.

Queen of May: In medieval Europe, it was common for a young woman to be chosen as the Queen of May to preside over the May Day festivities. This tradition may have been influenced by the Roman festival of Flora, which honored the goddess of flowers.

Jack-in-the-Green: In some parts of England, a person dressed in leaves and flowers known as Jack-in-the-Green would lead the May Day parade. This figure may represent the spirit of spring and rebirth.

The Green Man: A similar figure in folklore is the Green Man, a pagan symbol of nature and fertility often depicted with leaves or branches growing out of his mouth or hair. Some people believe that the Green Man is reborn each year on May Day.

The May Queen: In some traditions, a young woman is chosen to represent the May Queen, who is said to embody the spirit of spring and fertility. The May Queen often wears a crown of flowers and presides over the May Day festivities.

These are just a few examples of the legends and folklore associated with May. Different cultures and regions have their own unique traditions and stories surrounding this month.

Fun Facts About May – May Traditions

May is associated with a variety of traditions around the world. Here are some examples:

May Day: May Day, celebrated on May 1st, is a holiday in many countries and is associated with various traditions, such as dancing around the Maypole and giving baskets of flowers to friends and neighbors.

Memorial Day: In the United States, Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday in May to honor the men and women who died while serving in the military. Many communities hold parades and other events to commemorate the holiday.

Mother’s Day: Mother’s Day is celebrated in many countries on the second Sunday in May as a day to honor mothers and mother figures.

Cinco de Mayo: Cinco de Mayo, celebrated on May 5th, is a Mexican holiday that commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over France at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. The holiday is often celebrated with parades, music, and traditional foods.

Victoria Day: In Canada, Victoria Day is celebrated on the Monday before May 25th in honor of Queen Victoria’s birthday. The holiday is often marked with fireworks and other celebrations.

National Bike Month: May is National Bike Month in the United States, a time to promote bicycling as a healthy and eco-friendly form of transportation.

Ramadan: Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and in some years it falls in May. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset and engage in prayer and other religious activities.

Buddha’s Birthday: In many Asian countries, including Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan, Buddha’s Birthday is celebrated in May. The exact date varies depending on the country and tradition, but it typically falls in the first half of the month.

These are just a few examples of the many traditions associated with May. Different cultures and regions have their own unique customs and celebrations during this month.

Fun Facts About May – May Symbols

May is associated with several symbols that represent the season and its traditions. Here are some examples:

Maypole: The Maypole is a tall pole decorated with ribbons and flowers that is often used in May Day celebrations. People dance around the Maypole, holding onto the ribbons, in a traditional folk dance.

Flowers: May is often associated with flowers, particularly the Mayflower, which is a small white flower that blooms in early spring. Other flowers associated with May include lilies, lilacs, and daisies.

Bees: Bees are often associated with May because it is a time when flowers are in bloom, providing a source of nectar and pollen for the bees to gather.

Birds: Birds are a symbol of spring, and May is a time when many birds return from their winter migrations to build nests and raise their young.

Butterflies: Like bees, butterflies are attracted to the flowers that bloom in May. They are also a symbol of transformation and rebirth, making them a fitting symbol for the season.

Greenery: May is a time when the world comes alive with new growth and greenery, making it a symbol of renewal and rejuvenation.

These are just a few examples of the symbols associated with May. Different cultures and regions may have their own unique symbols and traditions that represent the season.

Fun Facts About May – May Riddles

Here are a few riddles about May:

I am a month with three letters. What am I? Answer: May

I bring the flowers, I bring the sun, I bring the birds and lots of fun. What month am I? Answer: May

I am a holiday in May, I celebrate those who work hard every day. What holiday am I? Answer: Labor Day/May Day

I am a Mexican holiday in May, I celebrate a battle fought in a unique way. What holiday am I? Answer: Cinco de Mayo

I am a flower that blooms in May, I have five white petals and a sweet perfume. What flower am I? Answer: Mayflower

Fun Facts About May – Quotes

“Everything is blooming most recklessly; if it were voices instead of colors, there would be an unbelievable shrieking into the heart of the night.” – Rainer Maria Rilke

“The world’s favorite season is the spring. All things seem possible in May.” – Edwin Way Teale

“In the spring, at the end of the day, you should smell like dirt.” – Margaret Atwood

“I love spring anywhere, but if I could choose, I would always greet it in a garden.” – Ruth Stout

“Spring is when you feel like whistling even with a shoe full of slush.” – Doug Larson

“The month of May was come, when every lusty heart beginneth to blossom, and to bring forth fruit.” – Sir Thomas Malory

These are just a few examples of quotes about May. Different people may have different associations with the season, and there are many more quotes that reflect these varied perspectives.

Check out These Fun Facts for Other Days and Dates

February, March, April, May, Tax Day, Year of the Rabbit, Winter Solstice, Summer Solstice, Spring Equinox, Fall Equinox

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