Some people only think about an eco lifestyle on Earth Day, April 22. However, a little research showed me that every month has a few unique and earth-friendly holidays that can be cause for celebration. Pick whichever ones appeal to you, then get out there and celebrate!
May is National Bike Month. Since 1956 National Bike Month has given Americans the chance to celebrate this two-wheeled and eco-friendly mode of transportation. And from 2000 to 2013, bike commuters in the U.S. rose 62% - how awesome is that? Bike to Work Day is May 15 this year.
May is also Barbecue Month, Get Caught Reading Month, National Photo Month and Date Your Mate Month.
May’s Celebrations by Date:
- May 1 – May Day
Whether it’s fertility dances, political protests or spring celebrations, May Day is honored around the world. One of the most common activities is maypole dancing, which really is as fun as it looks. - May 3 – Garden Meditation Day
An ancient practice, garden meditation provides a way to focus on inner stillness while surrounded by a soothing, natural environment. Whether you sit in silence or do a moving meditation while working in the garden, the benefits are the same: stress relief and a quieter mind. - May 8 –No Socks Day
It’s slightly eco because you lighten your laundry load by using one less pair of socks. It’s fun because your feet are released from their material confines where they can stretch and wiggle with abandon. Coworkers beware. - May 9 – World Fair Trade Day
Honored on the second Saturday of May, Fair Trade Day or, #WFTDay, is a global festival of events celebrating the need for a fair and sustainable economy. “Be an Agent for Change” with these ideas for #WFTDay events and products. - May 10 – Mother Ocean Day
This holiday is only two years old, and its meaning is pretty straightforward: celebrate the beauty and wonder of the ocean.
- May 15 – Endangered Species Day
The mountain gorilla, the black rhino, the Indian elephant, the Bengal tiger, the giant panda, the fin whale… these are just a few of the endangered species on our planet. There are many ways you can help aside from donating. - May 20 – Be a Millionaire Day
Who doesn’t want to be super wealthy? Start by imagining the life you would lead if you were one of the 12 million millionaires living in this world. Then follow these steps on how to become a millionaire. - May 25 – Towel Day
Fans of Douglas Adams’ The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy will understand the security one feels by carrying around a towel with them for a variety of uses: blanket, turban, emergency distress signal. Make it an eco-friendly towel and you’re all set! - May 29 – Learn About Composting Day
Read about the benefits of composting and where to start. - May 30 – Neighbor Day
You know those neighbors you see regularly but usually just nod and smile at? Today’s the day to learn their names, strike up a conversation or invite them over for cocktails. There’s no point in living in a neighborhood if we’re just going to cocoon ourselves inside our house 24/7. Take time to pop out for a bit and meet your neighbors.
