Summertime is almost here in the United States!

The month of May is a great opportunity to have fun and create memories in all three states with Harvest campuses: New Jersey, Florida, and California. You can get excited about trips to the beach, theme parks, and even visits to the movie theater to catch several of this year’s biggest blockbusters! So, make sure to take some time away from your studies and enjoy your weekends exploring American culture.

There are three notable days to be aware of in the month of May. The first is May 5^th, also known as Cinco De Mayo. Traditionally, Cinco De Mayo is the celebration of Mexican Independence after the Franco-Mexican War in 1862. However, Cinco De Mayo has become a day celebrating Mexican culture throughout the United States. It is not uncommon to celebrate the occasion by going to parties and events to enjoy the music, art, and food.

The next notable holiday is Mother’s Day, which will be on May 12^th this year. It is a day for celebrating the important role mothers play in the family. It is typically held on the 2nd Sunday of May every year. On this day, it is common to treat mothers to a nice meal at a restaurant or even get into the kitchen and cook a meal for her. It is also common to buy flowers and gifts. Many children clean the house and do extra chores on this day so their mothers can spend the day relaxing! So, make sure you take the opportunity to show your mother (and any other mothers you know!) just how special they are on May 12^th.

The last important day to remember in May is on the 27^th, which is Memorial Day. At first glance, Memorial Day may seem like a typical summertime holiday. It is usually celebrated by spending time with friends and family outside to enjoy the warm weather. It is easy to get caught up in the festivities and family BBQs, however, Memorial Day is really a day to honor the brave men and women who have given their lives throughout the history of the United States in service of the Armed Forces. A holiday for solemn reflection, it’ is for families to visit the graves of fallen loved ones in order to pay respects and honor their sacrifice.   As a reminder, all Harvest schools will be closed this day in honor of the holiday.

For those looking for something to do during this month, take a look at some of our recommendations below.

Newark, New Jersey

If you are interested in getting out for Cinco De Mayo, be sure to head to Elwood Park near the Lombardi Center from 4 pm to 8 pm in the North Ward of the city for the annual Cinco De Mayo Celebration. Featuring traditional Mexican food, music, and crafts, this is a great opportunity to learn more about the importance of Mexican heritage and its role in American Culture. Check out this website for more info.

https://www.newarknj.gov/events/cinco-de-mayo-and-mothers-day-celebration

Orlando, Florida

As can be expected, Orlando is packed with events during the month of May.  For Cinco de Mayo, several of Orlando’s top pub, bar, and club scenes will be hosting events over the weekend. For those looking for something outside of the club scene, there are a variety of things to do, no matter your taste.

Disney lovers should make sure to visit Epcot from May 6^th to June 3^rd for the annual International Flower and Garden Festival. For the sporting enthusiast, Orlando City Soccer will be going up against FC Cincinnati May 19^th at the new downtown stadium. Video game, comic book, or anime fans can check out Mega-Con on May 16^th to the 19^th at the Orange County Convention Center, which will feature merchandise from your favorite series as well as celebrity appearances including Michael J. Fox from Back to the Future, David Tennant from Dr. Who, and Zachary Levi from Shazam!   For fans of theatre, art, and music, the 28^th Annual Fringe Theatre Festival from May 14^th, 2019 to May 27^th, 2019 will offer the opportunity to see a plethora of different exhibits and shows.  For more information, visit the website below:

https://www.visitorlando.com/en/events

Los Angeles, California

There are a variety of events in LA during the month of May. For Cinco De Mayo, the 10^th annual Taco Madness Festival is taking place at LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes on Saturday, May 4^th.  At this event, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the best Mexican food LA has to offer. Memorial Day features many festivals for you to choose from.  If you are able to make it out to Hermosa Beach during Memorial Day Weekend, you can catch the Fiesta Hermosa, which features activities like live music, a beer and wine garden, a petting zoo, and over 300 booths with locals artists and crafters. There is also the 30^th annual Simi Valley Cajun festival for those who were unable to celebrate Mardi Gras earlier this year. The event will bring the music of New Orleans to LA. Information is located down below.

https://www.timeout.com/los-angeles/things-to-do/memorial-day-events-in-los-angeles

https://www.discoverlosangeles.com/things-to-do/the-best-places-to-celebrate-cinco-de-mayo-in-los-angeles