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Gateway to Summer: 10 Holidays to Celebrate in May 2024

By Kyrie Collins, Macaroni KID Highlands Ranch-Parker-Castle Rock-Lone Tree Publisher May 1, 2024

Maybe we love May. Actually, there's no maybe about it. The grass is green, the flowers are starting to bloom, and the kids can practically taste the end of the school year! 

We have ten special occasions and holidays this month that you can celebrate with your family!


1. Date Your Mate Month ~ May 1-31

This may not be something to celebrate with the whole family, but it will benefit everyone.

Regular date nights can strengthen relationships, increase communication, and allow you to de-stress. And ultimately, happy parents make happy kids!

If it's been a while since you've had a special night together, we can help! Check out our Babysitter-Worthy Events in May. Bookmark this guide, as it's updated every month.


2. 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.

Get your outgrown or damaged bikes to children in need through HopeCycle, a community bike shop in Englewood that sells affordable, pre-owned bicycles to support their programs. Since 2010, HopeCycle has been on a mission to inspire hope for those in need through the gift of a bike. 


3. May Day ~ May 1

Spread the springtime celebration cheer by making a May Day basket for your neighbors. Get our simple how-to instructions!



4. Free Comic Book Day ~ May 4

Visit a participating local shop for a free comic book as part of this national giveaway day that takes place annually on the first Saturday in May.



5. Star Wars Day ~ May 4

May the Fourth be with you! 

Star Wars Day is an unofficial holiday celebrated annually by fans of all things Star Wars. We have five fun ways to celebrate Star Wars Day. Or, if the Dark Side is a little more to your liking, save it for Revenge of the Sixth!


6. Cinco de Mayo ~ May 5

In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo is a minor holiday that marks the day the Mexican Army beat the French Army in the 1800s. However, in the United States, the day has become a giant celebration of Mexican-American culture, music, and cuisine.

Try our delicious recipes for guacamole, pico de gallo, and homemade baked tortilla chips!



7. Screen-Free Week ~ May 6-12

During this annual observation, children, families, schools, and communities worldwide swap digital entertainment for the joys of life beyond the screen. This week allows children — and adults — to power down and reconnect with the world around them.

How will you spend your time? We have 15 things to do during Screen-Free Week.



8. Mother's Day ~ May 12

It doesn't matter if the appreciation of your work 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.

Check out these Mother's Day events happening in and near Douglas County.



9. National Pick Strawberries Day ~ May 20

It just may be the juiciest holiday of them all! Strawberries are rich in vitamins B6, C, K, folate, potassium, and fiber and only have about 50 calories per cup. Dessert, anyone?

Visit a local Pick-Your-Own Farm, such as Berry Patch Farms in Brighton or Garden Sweet in Fort Collins, and bring home a bucket or two. Just be sure to call ahead to make sure the strawberries are ripe for pickin'!


10. National Paper Airplane Day ~ May 26

This simple creation has brought joy to generations of kids around the world. Do you remember how to make one? If not, here's a tutorial for you!