The month of May is marked by a diverse array of national and international days that celebrate cultural heritage, promote public health, honour notable individuals, and advocate for global causes. From raising awareness about critical health issues to commemorating technological milestones and family values, May is a month rich in significance. Here is a comprehensive look at the important days and events observed in May 2025.

1 May – International Labour Day / May Day

Celebrated across the globe, International Labour Day, also known as May Day, honours the contributions of workers and the labour movement. In India, it is called Antarrashtriya Shramik Diwas or Kamgar Din. The day stands for fair wages, decent working conditions, and workers’ rights.

Also on 1 May – Maharashtra Day and Gujarat Day

On this day in 1960, Maharashtra and Gujarat were formed following the division of Bombay State. The states mark the occasion with public celebrations, parades, and cultural events.

2 May – World Tuna Day

Recognized by the United Nations, this day draws attention to the vital role of tuna in food security and the importance of sustainable fishing to protect tuna populations.

3 May – World Press Freedom Day

This day celebrates the fundamental principles of press freedom. It also honours journalists who have sacrificed their lives in pursuit of the truth and advocates for the protection of free media.

4 May – Coal Miners Day and International Firefighters’ Day

Coal Miners Day acknowledges the hard work and risk undertaken by coal miners in one of the world’s most dangerous professions.
International Firefighters’ Day commemorates firefighters’ bravery and was initiated after the loss of five Australian firefighters in a wildfire.

Also on 4 May – World Laughter Day (First Sunday of May)

Founded by Dr. Madan Kataria in Mumbai in 1998, this day promotes wellness and peace through laughter under the global Laughter Yoga movement.

6 May – International No Diet Day and World Asthma Day (First Tuesday of May)

International No Diet Day encourages body positivity and awareness about eating disorders.
World Asthma Day aims to raise awareness about asthma and promote better care and prevention strategies.

7 May – World Athletics Day

Initiated by the IAAF (now World Athletics), this day promotes the importance of athletics, particularly among youth, and encourages healthy living through sports.

8 May – World Red Cross Day and World Thalassaemia Day

World Red Cross Day marks the birth anniversary of Henry Dunant, the founder of the Red Cross.
World Thalassaemia Day spreads awareness about the genetic blood disorder and supports affected families and individuals.

9 May – Rabindranath Tagore Jayanti and Maharana Pratap Jayanti

This day honours two iconic Indian figures — Rabindranath Tagore, the Nobel laureate poet and philosopher, and Maharana Pratap, the valiant Rajput king known for his resistance against the Mughal empire.

10 May – World Lupus Day

A day to raise global awareness about Lupus, a chronic autoimmune disease affecting millions worldwide.

11 May – National Technology Day and Mother’s Day (Second Sunday of May)

National Technology Day commemorates India’s nuclear achievements at Pokhran in 1998 and celebrates the country’s strides in science and technology.
Mother’s Day is a tribute to the love, care, and sacrifices of mothers and maternal figures across the world.

12 May – International Nurses Day and Buddha Purnima

Nurses Day is observed on Florence Nightingale’s birth anniversary, recognizing the pivotal role of nurses in healthcare.
Buddha Purnima, also known as Vesak, celebrates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Lord Buddha.

15 May – International Day of Families

This day highlights the importance of family structures and encourages global efforts to support family-oriented policies and programs.

16 May – National Dengue Day, International Day of Light, and National Endangered Species Day (Third Friday)

National Dengue Day aims to raise awareness and prevent the spread of dengue fever.
The International Day of Light celebrates the anniversary of the invention of the laser and promotes the significance of light in science and society.
Endangered Species Day draws attention to the need for protecting at-risk flora and fauna.

17 May – World Telecommunication Day, World Hypertension Day, and Armed Forces Day (Third Saturday)

Telecommunication Day commemorates the founding of the ITU and emphasizes the power of communication technology.
Hypertension Day promotes awareness about high blood pressure and heart health.
Armed Forces Day in the U.S. honours active-duty military personnel.

18 May – World AIDS Vaccine Day and International Museum Day

World AIDS Vaccine Day celebrates research efforts towards an HIV vaccine.
Museum Day underscores the role of museums in preserving and sharing cultural heritage.

20 May – International HR Day

This day celebrates the contribution of HR professionals in fostering inclusive, innovative, and productive work environments.

21 May – National Anti-Terrorism Day and International Tea Day

Anti-Terrorism Day commemorates the assassination of Rajiv Gandhi and promotes unity and anti-violence values.
Tea Day celebrates the global significance of tea production and the people behind it.

22 May – International Day for Biological Diversity

This day promotes the protection of biodiversity in the face of environmental threats and encourages global action for sustainable ecosystems.

23 May – World Turtle Day

An awareness day dedicated to the conservation of turtles and tortoises, their habitats, and the ecological challenges they face.

24 May – National Brother’s Day

A celebration of the unique and cherished bond between brothers, siblings, and lifelong friendships.

25 May – Africa Day

Commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963 and celebrates the unity, progress, and cultural diversity of the African continent.

26 May – National Memorial Day (Last Monday of May)

Observed in the United States, Memorial Day honours military personnel who died in service to the nation, often marked by parades and ceremonies.

30 May – International Day of Potato, Goa Statehood Day, and Hindi Journalism Day

The International Day of Potato recognizes the crop’s critical role in food security.
Goa Statehood Day marks the elevation of Goa to statehood in 1987.
Hindi Journalism Day commemorates the publication of India’s first Hindi newspaper, Udant Martand, in 1826.

31 May – World No Tobacco Day

Organized by WHO, this day highlights the health risks of tobacco use and promotes efforts for cessation and prevention.

Important Days and Events in May 2025