THINGS TO LOOK FORWARD TO IN MAY
It's a brand new month and things can only get better!
Whether you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, discover new experiences, or simply relax and unwind, there’s something for everyone this May.
Get ready to make the most of this vibrant and beautiful month with these activities and events.
Sports
There’s a lot to keep up with in sports this month. The NBA and NHL playoffs will be going on most of the month. The Kentucky Derby goes down on the 4th. The Table Tennis World Championship will continue until the 11th. The Indy 500 is on May 26th. And let’s not forget about the Boys of Summer! Go Jays!
Locally, the Simcoe County Rovers will be continuing their season and the Barrie Baycats host their Home Opener on the 16th.
May 4: Star Wars Day
Every May 4th, fans all over the world celebrate Star Wars Day! It celebrates the enduring popularity and impact of the Star Wars franchise, which has captured the hearts and imaginations of fans around the world for over four decades.
Why May 4th? It’s a pun on the iconic phrase “May the Force be with you” – “May the Fourth be with you!” Clever, right?
Fans of all ages dress up as their favorite characters, host movie marathons, and indulge in all things Star Wars. Many also participate in Star Wars-related activities, such as trivia contests and lightsaber battles.
So, grab your buddies and join in on the fun – because on this day, the Force is strong with us all!
May 5: Cinco De Mayo
Cinco De Mayo takes place on the 5th of May every year.
It commemorates the Mexican Army’s victory over the French forces in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, the Mexican army under the leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza successfully defended the city of Puebla against the French.
Today, Cinco de Mayo is widely recognized as a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, with traditional foods, music, dance, and parades being a common part of the festivities.
May 6: Teacher Appreciation Week
Teacher Appreciation Week is a week-long celebration where the teachers in our lives get showered with love and appreciation! Taking place during the first full week of May (6 to 10 in 2024), it’s the perfect opportunity to show our gratitude for all the hard work and dedication they put in.
During the week, schools and communities often hold special events and activities to honor teachers, such as luncheons and assemblies. If you are a student (or the parent of one) and want to do something special, consider writing thank-you notes, sending in delicious treats, making special gifts, or simply giving them a shout-out when you see them this week.
May 12: Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is the perfect excuse to shower our amazing moms with love, gratitude, and all the pampering they deserve! Taking place on the second Sunday of May every year, it’s a day to celebrate all of the mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures who have loved us unconditionally.
RELATED: Your ultimate Mother’s Day guide …
May 12: International Nurses Day
Every year on May 12th, the world celebrates International Nurses Day. The day was chosen as it is the birthday of Florence Nightingale, founder of modern nursing.
On this day, communities, hospitals, and organizations come together to express their appreciation for nurses and the work they do. This year’s theme is “Our Nurses. Our Future. The economic power of care.” According to the International Council Of Nurses (ICN), this theme aims “to reshape perceptions and demonstrate how strategic investment in nursing can bring considerable economic and societal benefits.”
May 18: International Museum Day
International Museum Day is a day to celebrate the importance of museums and to indulge our inner nerds!
Happening annually on the 18th, it’s the perfect excuse to explore the fascinating exhibits, collections, and artifacts that museums have to offer. From ancient fossils to modern art, there’s something for everyone to discover and appreciate.
Living in Simcoe County, we have access to many unique museums dedicated to our local heritage and culture. If you haven’t had a chance to check them out, here’s a list of museums in the area. Be sure to check their hours before visiting as some museums won’t be open until Victoria Day weekend.
- Simcoe County Museum
- The Grey & Simcoe Foresters Regimental Museum
- Base Borden Military Museum
- Sainte-Marie Among The Hurons
- Huronia Museum
- The Ken Snider Memorial Museum
- Penetanguishene Centennial Museum
- HMS Tecumseth Centre
- Orillia Museum Of Arts And History
- Leacock Museum Of National History
- Museum On The Boyne
May 20: Victoria Day
More commonly referred to as May 2-4, the May long weekend began as a way to commemorate Queen Victoria’s birth. But over the years, Victoria Day weekend has turned into the unofficial start of Summer in Canada!
Celebrated on the second last Monday of the month, the weekend is full of fireworks displays, fun events, and barbecues galore. And of course, there’s always the classic Canadian pastime of sitting around a campfire, roasting marshmallows, and enjoying the great outdoors.
