Monthly Archives: May 2012

Memorial Day

Memorial Day began in 1868 after the Civil War ended. Now all soldiers and veterans are honored. It is also the unoffical start of the summer season. There are cookouts and trips to the beach, and also parades.

Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the May 5, 1862 Battle of Puebla (Batalla de Puebla) in which Mexican troops  defeated Napolean’s forces. Cinco de Mayo is celebrated all over the US, but especially here in the DC area with a festival held on May 5 on The National Mall.

May Day

May 1 or May Day is a spring festival celebration in the US. It was especially popular in England during medievil times, with children dancing around a Maypole.