May, the fifth month of the Gregorian Calendar,arrives as spring reaches its peak and nature is in full bloom.

May has 31 days and its arrival marks the beginning of longer, brighter days and celebrations that honor milestones.

Despite the arrival of spring in the Northern Hemisphere in May, it is autumn in the southern hemisphere.

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The Meaning of May

May, which is Maius in Latin was named after the Greek goddess Maia, who was associated to Bona Dea, the Roman goddess of fertility. The festival of Bona Dea was celebrated in May.

There is another explanation that emerged from the Roman poet Ovid who stated that May was named after the maiores which is Latin for “elders”, while June was named after the iuniores (“young people”).

Why is May The 5th Month

May was originally the third month in the Roman calendar created by Romulus which only consisted of ten months and 304 days that left a gap of 61 days during the winter.

The months in this calendar were:

  • Martius (March),
  • Aprilis (April),
  • Maius (May),
  • Junius (June),
  • Quintilis (July),
  • Sextilis (August),
  • September,
  • October,
  • November, and
  • December.

King Numa Pompilius reformed the calendar around 713 BCE. He added two extra months January (Ianuarius) and February (Februarius) that resulted in a 12-month lunar year. 

But, the year still continued to begin in March that kept May as the third month in this system until 153 BCE, when the calendar went through further changes.

The consular year that previously started in March was officially shifted to January because of military necessities during the Lusitanian War. This pushed May from its third position to the fifth month. 

Throughout the Middle Ages, alternative New Year dates were used in different regions of Europe, influenced by Christian feast days like the Annunciation on March 25 and Christmas on December 25.

Despite this, the Roman calendar layout from January to December continued to be widely adopted.

In 1582, the introduction of the Gregorian calendar reaffirmed January 1 as the official start of the year, securing May’s position as the fifth month, a tradition that remains in place today.

May Traditions in Ancient Rome

In ancient Rome, several festivals were celebrated throughout May.

Bona Dea took place on May 1, followed by Argei on May 14 or 15, and Agonalia on May 21.

Ambarvalia was held on May 29.

The Floralia festival, which began on April 27 (Republican era) or April 28 (Julian calendar), lasted until May 3.

Lemuria occurred on May 9, 11, and 13.

The Rosalia festival was celebrated twice by the College of Aesculapius and Hygia, on May 11 and May 22, while a larger Rosalia festival took place in Pergamon from May 24 to 26.

The military Rosalia festival, known as Rosaliae signorum, was held on May 31.

Mercury received a sacrifice on the Ides of May, May 15, and the Tubilustrium festival was celebrated on May 23.

Important Modern Day Celebrations And Observances In May

 The Magic of May

For much of the Northern Hemisphere, May marks the transition from spring to early summer, with longer days and warmer temperatures.

The blossoming flowers, lush gardens, and fresh foliage create a feeling of rejuvenation and growth.

Nature comes alive, offering the perfect backdrop for outdoor activities, picnics, and walks in the park.

In contrast, the Southern Hemisphere enjoys autumn in May, with cooler temperatures and colorful leaves creating a picturesque scene.

It’s a time for cozy gatherings, reflecting on the year so far, and preparing for the upcoming winter months.

May's dual experience across the globe highlights its universal charm: it’s a month for celebration, whether enjoying the blossoming warmth or embracing the cool, crisp air.

Interesting May Facts

  • May's birthstone is the emerald, symbolizing love and success.
  • May's birth flowers are the Lily of the Valley and Crataegus monogyna, both native to the cool temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere in Asia, Europe, and parts of the U.S. They have been naturalized across temperate climates worldwide.
  • The Mayflower (Epigaea repens), a North American flower, is a harbinger of May and the floral emblem of Nova Scotia and Massachusetts. Its native range extends from Newfoundland to Florida and Kentucky, reaching up to the Northwest Territories.
  • The zodiac signs for May are Taurus (until May 20) and Gemini (starting May 21).
  • May is National Mental Health Awareness Month in the U.S., focusing on raising awareness about mental health issues and promoting well-being.
  • The May full moon is sometimes called the “Flower Moon” due to the abundance of blooming flowers during this time.
  • ​​​​May marks the beginning of the rainy season in many regions, bringing showers that nourish crops and landscapes.

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