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What's Happening This Month? 10 May Events, Observances Not To Miss

From celebrating teachers and mothers to celebrating AAPI month

By Macaroni KID/Jonna Kinlin, Publisher of Macaroni KID Seacoast April 27, 2023

May means the school year is winding down and spring is in full bloom. From honoring different cultures to supporting important causes, May has something for everyone. Here are 10 events and observances to add to your calendar this month.

Holidays


Macaroni KID Eats

May Day

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! Here's how Charlotte Linde, editor of Macaroni KID EATS, celebrates this tradition in her neighborhood. 



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Cinco de Mayo

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. Try out some of our delicious recipes for guacamole, pico de gallo, and homemade chips! May 5



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Free Comic Book Day

Get a free comic book at a participating local bookstore as part of this national giveaway day! Some of the local shops participating are JetPack Comics and Games in Rochester, Double Midnight Comics in Manchester and Merrymac Games and Comics in Merrimack. Search for other participating stores here. May 6



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Mother's Day

It doesn't matter if the appreciation of the work you do 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. Get a free Mother's Day printable from Macaroni KID now! May 14



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Memorial Day

Today, we remember those who died serving in the U.S. military. Take a moment to honor their sacrifice and reflect on the freedoms we enjoy because of their service. May 29

Week-long observances in May


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Screen-Free Week

Screen-Free Week isn't just about giving up your screens, it's about gaining so much more! Instead of spending an hour on YouTube, you can spend that hour enjoying the great outdoors. Those ten minutes of scrolling through social media can turn into a fun doodling session. And on a rainy day, you can swap out a movie for some quality time reading, chatting, or playing pretend with your family. Find out more about participating in Screen Free week. May 1-7



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National Teacher Appreciation Week

Teachers work hard every day to educate our kids. This is the week to show them how much we appreciate their hard work. We are proud to have teachers among our Macaroni KID publishers. Read about them here! May 8-12

Month-Long Observances in May


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National Foster Care Month

May is the month when we recognize the amazing work of foster families who make a difference in the lives of over 400,000 children in the U.S. foster care system. Learn more about fostering and how you can help. Could you be a foster parent?



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Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month 

This month, we celebrate the rich cultural diversity of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, spanning over 30 countries and over 100 different languages. Here are 10 books we love from AAPI authors.



NAMI

Mental Health Awareness Month

Mental illness affects more than 50 million people in the U.S. Visit NAMI for resources and ideas on how to mark this month, including signing a petition and how to advocate for change. If you or someone you know is suffering from a mental health condition, visit this page to find local resources in New Hampshire.