May 2026 Holidays Worldwide
Complete list of holidays and observances around the globe
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International Workers' Day
Also known as May Day or Labour Day, it celebrates the achievements of workers and the labor movement. It originated with the 19th-century labor movement for worker's rights and an eight-hour workday.
Public holiday in many countries
Star Wars Day
An informal commemorative day observed annually to celebrate the Star Wars franchise created by George Lucas. The date was chosen as a pun on the catchphrase 'May the Force be with you' as 'May the Fourth be with you'.
Observance, not a public holiday
Cinco de Mayo
Commemorates the Mexican Army's victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. In the United States, it has evolved into a celebration of Mexican-American culture.
Regional holiday in Mexico, observance in the US
World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day
Celebrates the principles of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement. It marks the birthday of Henry Dunant, the founder of the International Committee of the Red Cross and recipient of the first Nobel Peace Prize.
Observance, not a public holiday
Europe Day
Celebrates peace and unity in Europe. The date marks the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which proposed the creation of a European Coal and Steel Community, the forerunner to the European Union.
Observance, public holiday in some EU countries
Mother's Day
Celebration honoring mothers and motherhood, maternal bonds, and the influence of mothers in society. It is celebrated on various days in many parts of the world, most commonly in the months of March or May.
Observance, not a public holiday
International Day of Families
UN observance that promotes awareness of issues relating to families and increases knowledge of the social, economic, and demographic processes affecting families.
UN observance, not a public holiday
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day
Aims to raise awareness of the possibilities that the use of the Internet and other information and communication technologies can bring to societies and economies, as well as ways to bridge the digital divide.
UN observance, not a public holiday
Victoria Day
Canadian holiday celebrating the birthday of Queen Victoria, who was born on May 24, 1819. It is observed on the Monday preceding May 25 and marks the unofficial beginning of summer in Canada.
Public holiday in Canada
World Bee Day
Raises awareness about the importance of pollinators, the threats they face, and their contribution to sustainable development. The date coincides with the birthday of Anton Janša, a pioneer of modern apiculture.
UN observance, not a public holiday
World Day for Cultural Diversity
UN observance that celebrates not only the richness of the world's cultures, but also the essential role of intercultural dialogue for achieving peace and sustainable development.
UN observance, not a public holiday
Africa Day
Annual commemoration of the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (now known as the African Union) on May 25, 1963. It celebrates African unity and the progress made by African people to free themselves from foreign domination and exploitation.
Public holiday in some African countries
Memorial Day
Federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the military personnel who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. It is observed on the last Monday of May.
Federal holiday in the United States
World No Tobacco Day
Annual awareness day sponsored by the World Health Organization since 1987. It highlights the health risks associated with tobacco use and advocates for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption.
WHO observance, not a public holiday
May Monthly Observances
Month-long awareness campaigns and celebrations
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Celebrates the contributions that Asian Americans and Pacific Islander Americans have made to American history, society, and culture.
Mental Health Awareness Month
Raises awareness about mental health issues and promotes mental well-being. The month focuses on reducing stigma and encouraging people to seek help when needed.
National Physical Fitness and Sports Month
Encourages people to be more physically active and highlights the importance of regular exercise for overall health and well-being.
National Bike Month
Promotes bicycling as a healthy and environmentally friendly form of transportation and recreation.
National Military Appreciation Month
Honors current and former members of the U.S. Armed Forces, including those who have died in the pursuit of freedom.
National Stroke Awareness Month
Raises awareness about the signs and symptoms of stroke, risk factors, and the importance of immediate medical attention.
Older Americans Month
Celebrates the contributions of older Americans and raises awareness about issues facing the elderly, such as elder abuse.
National Foster Care Month
Recognizes the role of foster families, community members, and organizations in supporting children and youth in foster care.
May Weekly Observances
Special weeks celebrated during May
Teacher Appreciation Week (First Full Week)
Honors teachers and recognizes the lasting contributions they make to our lives. The week includes Teacher Appreciation Day, typically observed on Tuesday of this week.
National Nurses Week (May 6-12)
Celebrates the contributions that nurses make to society. The week ends on May 12, the birthday of Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing.
National Police Week (Week of May 15)
Pays tribute to law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The week includes Peace Officers Memorial Day on May 15.
National Emergency Medical Services Week (Third Week)
Honors the dedication of those who provide day-to-day lifesaving services on the medical "front line." The week celebrates EMS practitioners and the important work they do.
May 2026 Calendar Downloads
Free printable May calendars with holidays
May 2026 Calendar with Holidays
Standard monthly calendar with all major holidays and observances marked. Perfect for planning your month.
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May 2026 Printable Calendar with Notes
Monthly calendar with extra space for notes and reminders. Ideal for tracking appointments and tasks.
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May 2026 Calendar Landscape
Horizontal layout calendar with holidays. Great for desk planning or wall display.
DownloadNeed a Custom May Calendar?
Create a personalized May 2026 calendar with your own events, holidays, and design preferences.