May is a Month of Meaningful Holidays - May Holidays

As we step into May, we’re greeted with blooming flowers, warmer days, and a month packed with fun, quirky, and meaningful holidays. Whether you’re looking to celebrate with your school, workplace, or family, May has something for everyone. Let’s take a look at some of the standout holidays and how you can join in the celebration!

May 5 - Cinco de Mayo

When many people think of Cinco de Mayo, images of tacos, eagle, mariachi music, sombreros, and festive parties might come to mind. But this vibrant day, rich with historical significance and cultural pride, is much more than a celebration of Mexican food and fun.

What is Cinco de Mayo?

Contrary to popular belief, Cinco de Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day. That day is actually celebrated on September 16. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Battle of Puebla, which took place on May 5, 1862.

History of Cinco de Mayo

At the time, Mexico was dealing with financial struggles and had defaulted on debts to several European countries. In response, France, Britain, and Spain sent naval forces to demand repayment. While Britain and Spain negotiated and withdrew, France - then under Emperor Napoleon III - decided to invade Mexico and install a monarchy under Archduke Maximilian of Austria.

On May 5, 1862, a vastly outnumbered and poorly equipped Mexican army, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza, defeated the powerful French forces in the town of Puebla. Though the victory didn’t end the war, it was a powerful symbolic win that bolstered Mexican resistance and national pride.

How is Cinco de Mayo Celebrated in the United States?

Cinco de Mayo has taken on a life of its own in the United States, particularly in areas with large Mexican-American populations. Over time, it has evolved into a broader celebration of Mexican Culture and Heritage. It’s a chance for people of all backgrounds to come together and enjoy:

• Parades and cultural festivals.

• Live music and dance performances.

• Mexican food and drink specials.

• Art exhibits and educational events on Mexican history and contributions.

In cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Houston, Cinco de Mayo events can draw thousands of people.

Download a Free Printable Classroom Activities Guide for Cinco de Mayo.

May 12 - Mother’s Day (Second Sunday in May)

A powerful reminder to honor the women who have shaped us with their love, strength, and sacrifice. Mother’s Day is a time to pause, reflect, and celebrate the quiet heroism of motherhood.

The History Behind Mother’s Day

Mother’s Day has its roots in the early 20th century, largely thanks to Anna Jarvis, who organized the first official observance in 1908 to honor her mother’s work in community health and peace efforts. By 1914, President Woodrow Wilson officially recognized it as a national holiday in the U.S.

But the idea of honoring mothers goes back even further - ancient Greeks and Romans held festivals in tribute to mother goddesses, and Christians celebrated “Mothering Sunday” centuries before the U.S. holiday existed.

Today, the second Sunday of May is a global celebration, with different cultures putting their own spin on how they honor moms.

Mother’s Day gives us the space to say: We see you. We appreciate you. We love you.

And the impact of a mother’s love isn’t just emotional - it’s measurable. Research shows that children who have strong maternal bonds tend to perform better academically, demonstrate higher emotional intelligence, and enjoy stronger mental health. Mothers literally shape the future.

Celebrate Mother’s Day that goes beyond flowers.

Download a Free Printable Guide to Celebrate Mother’s Day.

May 27 - Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)

Memorial Day is a deeply significant American holiday. While many associate it with the unofficial start of summer - barbecues, long weekends, and retail sales - it’s rooted in something much more solemn: a time to honor and remember the brave men and women who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.

A History of Remembrance

The origins of Memorial Day date back to the aftermath of the Civil War, a conflict that claimed more American lives than any other. Communities began holding springtime tributes to the fallen, decorating their graves with flowers, and reciting prayers. Originally known as Decoration Day, the holiday was officially proclaimed in 1868 by General John A. Logan was first observed on May 30 of that year at Arlington National Cemetery.

Over the decades, the meaning of the holiday expanded to honor American military personnel who died in all wars, including World War I, World War II, the Vietnam War, the Korean War, and more recent conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan. In 1971, Memorial Day was declared a national holiday by an act of Congress and was placed on the last Monday of May to create a three-day weekend for federal employees.

Why Memorial Day Matters

While Veterans Day celebrates all who have served, Memorial Day is a more solemn reflection - a moment to acknowledge the ultimate sacrifice made in the name of freedom. It’s an opportunity to:

• Remember the Fallen

• Honor their Families

• Inspire Gratitude and Civic Responsibility

Download a Free Printable Classroom Activities Guide for Memorial Day.

Other Fun May Holidays to Note:

• National Principal Day

• National Space Day

• National Fitness Day

• National Endangered Species Day

• National Take Your Parents to the Playground Day

Out of This World Fun: Celebrate Space & Astronaut Day with Movement & Motivation

 Shoot for the stars, honor the heroes, and spark students' minds by tying these two National Days with Fitness Finder's mission and tokens.

Why only learn about space for one day when you can create a Space Week! National Space Day is celebrated on May 3 and National Astronaut Day is celebrated on May 5 making it a perfect opportunity to fuel your students’ curiosity, imagination - and movement! This space-themed celebration isn’t just about stars and spaceships. It’s about inspiring kids to dream big, stay active, and work toward their goals - exactly what we’re all about at Fitness Finders.

At Fitness Finders, we believe learning and fitness go hand in hand. That’s why we’ve created a galaxy of space-themed tokens and awards to help educators celebrate while promoting positive habits.

Why Bring Space Into The Classroom?

Kids are naturally fascinated by space. From rocket ships and planets to real-life astronauts, space offers the perfect theme to inspire big dreams and healthy habits. These national days highlight science, discovery, perseverance, and teamwork - all values we love at Fitness Finders!

How to Make it Fun and Active:

• Moonwalk Movement Breaks

Have students try “zero gravity” walking during transitions or recess.

• Mission Possible Teamwork Edition

Create challenges that require students to work together to complete “missions,” reinforcing cooperation and leadership.

• Space Race Step Challenge

Track steps or laps to “travel across the solar system.” Award tokens for reaching each new planet.

• Astronaut Training Stations

Set up obstacle courses or classroom workouts that mimic astronaut prep - agility drills, “gravity jumps,” or core-strength circuits.

• Launch a Kindness Mission

Have students complete kind deeds to earn their way through the solar system.

• Classroom Inspiration Station

Share astronaut bios quotes or videos. Let students reflect on what traits they admire in space explorers - and how they can develop those traits themselves.

• Star Student Awards

Recognize students showing stellar effort with our star or rocket tokens.

Make It Memorable With Space-Themed Tokens 

We offer a variety of space tokens - rockets, stars, astronauts, and more - to motivate movement and reward effort. Pair them with our custom printable certificates for an affordable, inspiring way to bring your celebration to life.

Fitness Finders Awards For Every Milestone

• Rocket Ship

• Earth

• Sun

• Shooting Star

Celebrate Teacher Appreciation Week: Fun Ways for Students and Parents to Say Thank You

Every spring, we get the chance to honor the incredible educators who inspire, guide, and support students every day. Teacher Appreciation Week is the perfect time to show gratitude for all the hard work teachers do - both in and out of the classroom.

What Is Teacher Appreciation Week?

Teacher Appreciation Week is celebrated during the first full week of May each year. In 2025, it runs from May 5 to May 9, with National Teacher Day falling on Tuesday, May 6.

The tradition began in 1953 when First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt persuaded Congress to set aside a day to recognize teachers. It wasn’t until 1984 that the National Parent Teacher Association (PTA) established the first full week of May as Teacher Appreciation Week.

Fun and Meaningful Ways to Show Appreciation

Looking for creative ways to thank your teachers? Here are some ideas for students and parents to celebrate:

1. Handwritten Notes or Cards

A heartfelt message can mean the world to a teacher. Encourage your child to write a note expressing what they appreciate about their teacher.

2. Classroom Supplies

Teachers often spend their own money on classroom materials. Consider gifting items like markers, sticky notes, or tissues.

3. Decorate the Classroom Door

Collaborate with other parents and students to create a festive door decoration celebrating your teacher.

4. Video Messages

Compile short video clips from students sharing their favorite memories or what they love about their teacher.

5. Themed Days

Organize themed days during the week, such as “Thank You Thursday” where each student brings a small token of appreciation.

Tokens of Appreciation from Fitness Finders

Fitness Finders offers a variety of customizable incentive charms and awards that can serve as thoughtful gifts for teachers. These tokens can be a fun way for students to express their gratitude. Explore options like:

• Thumbs Up Charm: A Cheerful way to say “Great Job!”

• Star Charms: To let teachers know they’re stars in your eyes.

• Good Choice Charm: Celebrating the positive impact of teachers' guidance.

• Apple Charm: A classic symbol of education and respect for teachers.

• Thank You Mini Medal: A direct and simple message that speaks volumes and is ideal for students of all ages to give to their teacher.

These small tokens can be paired with a thank-you note or included in a gift bag. Check out the full selection of Fitness Finders Tokens.

Why Teacher Appreciation Matters

Teachers play a crucial role in shaping the minds and futures of our children. Recognizing their dedication not only boosts their morals but also reinforces the value of education in our communities.

Create Opportunities for Kids to Run, Play, and Exercise - Double the Fun by Getting Outdoors

 Celebrate being outdoors with a purpose, a little motivation, possible rewards, and mostly for fun.

At Fitness Finders, we believe that celebrating movement with meaningful rewards helps kids:

• Build consistency in physical activity.

• Feel proud of their efforts (not just results).

• Stay engaged through fun and play.

Why Rewards Work

When kids know there’s a goal to reach - or a cool token to earn - it gives them a sense of purpose. It’s not about competition; it’s about progress and participation.

Research shows that intrinsic motivation grows when kids associate physical activity with fun, accomplishment, and recognition - not pressure. And small, tangible rewards (like our colorful tokens) help reinforce that positive connection.

How to Use Tokens for Play Outside Day

Here are a few fun ways to use Fitness Finders tokens with your students or kids:

• Outdoor Bingo

Complete a row of outdoor activities (like hopscotch, nature walks, or jumping jacks) to earn a reward. Make things more interesting or challenging to see if you can get multiple bingos, or fill up the whole bingo card. Reward kids with a special Fitness Finders token for completing a Bingo, or reward them with a token that corresponds with each outdoor activity they complete - frog jumps, walking, jumping jacks, run like a rocket, etc…

Download a free printable bingo activity board. 

• Play Outside Pledge

Track 30 minutes of outdoor play for 5 days and reward with a star, flower, or sun token.

Download a free printable fitness tracker.

• Group Challenge

Get the whole class or family active and create a group goal - e.g. tally the total # minutes outside. Add a little twist and make it required for everyone to be outside at the time for the minutes to count and celebrate with a group reward.

• Kindness in the Outdoors

Recognize kids who help clean up a playground, invite a friend to play, or show great sportsmanship.

Why Does It Matter?

• Kids need at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day according to the CDC.

• Outdoor play improves mood, focus, and sleep - for kids and adults!

• Physical activity helps build strong muscles, bones, and confidence.

• Studies show that kids who play outside regularly have lower stress levels and do better in school.

Movement + Recognition = Motivation

Pairing physical activity with positive recognition helps kids feel seen, builds confidence, and encourages them to keep moving. National Play Outside and National Fitness Day is the perfect time to start - or refresh - that habit.

Fun + Fitness = Happy, Healthy Kids

Here’s how you can celebrate these two movement-filled days with your students or kids at home:

• Create a backyard or recess obstacle course

Use cones, jump ropes, or even sidewalk chalk!

• Go on a nature walk or scavenger hunt

Add movement and mindfulness

• Launch a mini fitness challenge

10 jumping jacks, 10 squats, 10 toe touches … repeat!

• Free play for the win

Sometimes the best fitness is unstructured. Let kids run, explore, and get messy!

Make Movement Stick with Rewards That Matter

At Fitness Finders, we make getting active fun and meaningful. Our colorful tokens and awards are perfect for recognizing effort, teamwork, or sticking with a new fitness goal. Try our outdoor-themed tokens to mark milestones and keep kids motivated.

Let’s Move Together

Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or coach, National Play Outside Day and National Fitness Day are great reminders that movement doesn’t have to be complicated - it just needs to be consistent.