In addition to International Labor Day on May 1st, there are numerous other holidays in May to remember. Let's explore what festivities May holds for you with Mytour, helping you plan the best strategies.
What events take place in May?
I. What holidays does May have in the Gregorian calendar?
May is filled with numerous national and international events and holidays, including:
1. International Workers' Day (5/1)
International Workers' Day (also known as May Day or Labor Day) is celebrated annually on May 1st, commemorating the international labor movement. It holds significant importance for workers worldwide. In Vietnam, International Workers' Day is a public holiday, and according to regulations, all workers, civil servants, students, and pupils are entitled to a day off.
International Workers' Day is annually celebrated on May 1st.
2. Victory at Dien Bien Phu Day (5/7)
What makes May special? On May 7th, 1954, the people achieved victory in the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, leaving an indelible mark in history. This event signaled the end of the war, safeguarding the nation's territorial integrity and restoring peace. Hence, every year on this day, many reflect on the glorious scenes of 1954.
3. Establishment Day of Ho Chi Minh Young Pioneer Organization (5/15)
On May 15, 1941, President Ho Chi Minh, along with the Communist Party of Vietnam, established the Children's Rescue Brigade (later renamed the Ho Chi Minh Young Pioneer Organization). Each year on this date, various activities such as sports competitions and cultural performances take place, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere to commemorate this day.
4. Birthday of President Ho Chi Minh (19/5)
What is May 19th all about? President Ho Chi Minh was born on May 19, 1890, as the great leader of the Vietnamese nation and a national hero. Therefore, May 19 is considered a special day to honor the memory of Vietnam's former president. Starting from the beginning of the month, various organizations and groups organize festive activities to celebrate President Ho Chi Minh's birthday.
Additionally, there are many other global observances in May such as:
- May 3: World Press Freedom Day as designated by the United Nations.
- May 8: International Red Cross Day.
- Second Sunday of May: Mother's Day.
- May 9: Victory Day commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany.
- May 15: International Day of Families.
- See more: Major holidays in Vietnam
- See more: What holidays are in June??
II. What lunar holidays are in May?
What holidays are in May? In the lunar calendar, May has only one holiday, which is Doan Ngo Festival (or Double Fifth Festival), occurring on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month every year. According to Vietnamese belief, Doan Ngo is a day to eliminate pests. It marks the end of the farming season and the beginning of a new one, so people perform rituals to express gratitude to ancestors, heaven, and earth, as well as to pray for a successful upcoming harvest.
Doan Ngo Festival is held on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month every year.
Here, Mytour has compiled essential holidays and significant events in May to help you answer what holidays are in May. Prepare well to celebrate the holidays, events, and plan accordingly for yourself and your family.