May 25, 2026 by Olivia Howe (‘26)
There are a total of 678 recorded holidays spanning across 230 countries within the month of May, and they all blend into a beautiful reflection of spiritual, cultural, and inspirational celebrations. As spring is in full force across the globe, people are united with collected reverence to lively traditions, and the season’s schedule seemed to be completely booked with parades and fanfare. From the patriotic parades of Eastern Europe’s Victory Day to the animated festivities surrounding college graduations, the world is full of entertainment and vivacity, setting the tone for the summer season long waited for.
Festivities of Cinco de Mayo (“the fifth of May”) flooded towns and cities across Mexico and the United States as a celebration of Mexico’s victory over the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Traditional food, like guacamole, tacos, or poblano, dancing, and music were observed throughout the day, and large gatherings commemorated the historic triumph. The duration of Cinco de Mayo varies depending on the regions that celebrate it, as US street festivals usually last for a day or two while Puebla in Mexico includes a week-long combination of fairs and patriotic parades. No matter where you are from, it is clear to see that these celebrations highlight the zeal and perseverance of Mexican heritage. This year, some cities faced financial constraints and a lack of support from local governance, leading to the cancellation of the Dallas Oaf Cliff parade, but smaller celebrations stepped in and the excitement of the day was not lost.
On May 9th, crowds took to the streets in solemnity and pride in celebration of Victory Day, which marks the collapse and defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. Victory Day’s 2026 anniversary featured bright firework shows around the “Mamayev Kurgan” memorial, parades demonstrating strong military capability, and wreath-laying ceremonies; and while certain celebrations, such as the popular military parade in Moscow’s Red Square, were said to have been “scaled down” this year amidst the ongoing Ukraine War, Victory Day still remains to be an important celebration that recognizes the 27 million lives lost during World War II.
The United States recognizes a plethora of holidays throughout spring, which includes the preparations for Memorial Day (today, May 25th!) and national observances of Jewish American, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage month. Memorial Day honors veterans that have fallen or dedicated themselves to the service of the US Army by hosting hundreds of colorful parades and ceremonies. Mental Health Awareness Month took place this May as well, which aims at reducing the stigma around mental health illnesses or disabilities. Colleges and high schools are also wrapping up across the nation, and lots of proms, graduations, or flower festivals can be seen during this time.
Although only a few of the many festivals are mentioned in this article, this spring’s revelment of merriness and memorials shows us just a glimpse into the ways people are still rejoicing and joining together.
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