Writer Fennel Hudson once remarked, “The month of May, unlike any other, compels us to embrace life fully.” Imagine yourself strolling through a meadow bursting with wildflowers or feeling the wind in your hair on a scenic road trip. We’ve assembled a variety of May content ideas suitable for all your platforms—blogs, social media, email, and video—designed to resonate with your audience during this wonderful time of year.

Contents

• May holiday content ideas
• Pop culture May content ideas
• Social awareness May content ideas
• Food and drink May content ideas Eager to plan your entire year in advance? Secure the 2024 Marketing Calendar for inspiration, helpful advice, and the latest trends for each month.

May holiday content ideas

May offers numerous occasions to celebrate, from honoring mothers to appreciating Mexican culture. These May holiday content ideas will effectively engage your audience just as they’re getting ready to enjoy the festivities.

Cinco de Mayo (May 5)

Cinco de Mayo officially marks the anniversary of Mexico’s triumph over France at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. More casually, it’s a day to celebrate Mexican heritage and traditions. Here’s a captivating content idea for this holiday: consider creating an engaging video for children, showcasing Mexico’s vibrant music, delicious cuisine, and rich history through fun activities.

While this is undeniably an ambitious endeavor, it doesn’t have to be overly complicated. There are numerous other approaches to infuse your online presence with the spirit of Cinco de Mayo.

• Compile a calendar showcasing local Cinco de Mayo events.
• Compose a blog entry that delves into traditional Mexican dishes and provides links to enticing recipes.
• Engage your followers by asking them to share their favorite Mexican restaurants in the comments.
• If applicable to your area, share a list of Mexican heritage centers and museums, tagging their accounts in the post for greater visibility.
• Craft a video highlighting traditional Mexican music or showcasing captivating images of traditional Mexican attire.

Mother’s Day (May 12)

Mothers frequently serve as the unsung heroes in our lives. This sentiment extends to all individuals who step into the roles of stepmoms and mother figures for so many of us. Mothers undeniably deserve a day dedicated to honoring their contributions. You can assist your clientele in expressing their gratitude by offering a diverse gift guide brimming with ideas for every type of mom.

That’s merely the starting point for Mother’s Day content brainstorming! Consider engaging your audience on social media by posing questions or sharing cherished Mother’s Day memories.

• Encourage people to reminisce about their favorite “mom-isms” (like the classic “because I said so”).
• Create lighthearted and relatable videos capturing the essence of “A Day in the Life of a Busy Mom.”
• Compile and share a list of local stores and eateries featuring Mother’s Day promotions.
• Invite mothers in your audience to share their most memorable Mother’s Day experiences in the comments.
• Provide a step-by-step guide on preparing the perfect breakfast in bed. Here’s even more inspiration to fuel your Mother’s Day social media posts, along with an extensive list of heartfelt Mother’s Day messages tailored for all your marketing platforms. Access an entire year’s worth of social media content with this comprehensive Copy & Paste Social Media Calendar.

Memorial Day (May 27)

Memorial Day messaging often navigates a delicate balance. The essence of the day solemnly commemorates the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in the armed forces. Simultaneously, Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer, filled with poolside gatherings and backyard barbecues. If your intention is to honor the true meaning of the day, an Instagram Reel chronicling the history of Memorial Day would be a fitting tribute.

Alternatively, there are numerous engaging ways to connect with your audience regarding the more lighthearted aspect of the holiday. Content focused on Promotions, meticulous party planning, and enticing culinary tips consistently resonate with audiences.

• Provide value to your email subscribers by sharing a comprehensive plan for the ultimate Memorial Day celebration, complete with detailed supply lists, creative decoration ideas, and sample menus (consider incorporating these Memorial Day subject lines).
• For a simpler approach, communicate your Memorial Day hours through a straightforward social media post.
• Curate a list of enticing weekend road trip ideas, highlighting charming small towns to explore or historical landmarks worth visiting.
• Assemble a refreshing collection of summertime cocktail and mocktail recipes, presenting them in an easily digestible blog post format.
• Drive engagement and boost sales by implementing a strategically timed Memorial Day promotion featuring enticing discounts, irresistible BOGO (buy one, get one) offers, or the allure of free shipping.

Pop culture May content ideas

Social media posts inspired by pop culture are an engagement goldmine (people adore their fandoms!). May is brimming with days dedicated to beloved books, iconic movies, and more. By tapping into these themes, you’ll effortlessly draw a larger audience to your content.

Harry Potter Day (May 2)

Harry Potter has undoubtedly secured its place as a lasting cultural phenomenon, with devoted fans eagerly attending themed conventions, flocking to amusement parks, and participating in various events. Notably, the hashtag #harrypotterday alone boasts nearly 38,000 posts on Instagram. How can you effectively engage this enthusiastic community of Hogwarts enthusiasts? Consider a lighthearted and imaginative video exploring the question: “What if the magical world of Harry Potter truly existed?”

This theme is brimming with possibilities for captivating content. There are numerous visual and interactive content ideas you can implement on Harry Potter Day.

• Create an engaging Instagram poll asking your followers to determine which Hogwarts house they would be sorted into (perhaps associating each answer with one of your products for a fun twist).
• Invite your followers to share their personal favorites from the HP universe by asking them to comment on their most beloved books, movies, or memorable scenes.
• Share intriguing behind-the-scenes anecdotes and lesser-known facts about the Harry Potter series.
• Organize a Harry Potter-themed dress-up day for your staff or customers, sharing the resulting photos across your social media platforms to spread the magic.

Star Wars Day (May 4)

“May the Fourth (be with you)” has organically evolved into an annual celebration of all things related to the captivating Star Wars universe, encompassing everything from the Sith and Skywalkers to the galaxy’s most notorious scoundrels. Much like Harry Potter aficionados, Star Wars devotees are highly likely to engage with, enjoy, and share your Star Wars-themed content. For instance, the Dallas Mavericks orchestrated a playful prank by strategically placing several imposing Stormtroopers outside a press conference. These figures, initially appearing as inanimate statues, startled unsuspecting players as they passed by.

While costume events in various forms are consistently popular choices for Star Wars Day, a galaxy of other opportunities exist to harness the power of this iconic franchise.

• Host a captivating Star Wars trivia contest and incorporate a Instagram giveaway element to maximize engagement, awarding enticing prizes to those who swiftly answer obscure questions from a galaxy far, far away.
• Tap into the adorable factor by encouraging your followers to share pictures of their furry companions dressed as their favorite Star Wars characters (for additional inspiration, explore these tips on effectively gathering user-generated content).
• Provide a step-by-step guide by crafting a how-to video showcasing creative and engaging Star Wars-themed crafts and activities.
• Ensure your content reaches the right audience by strategically incorporating relevant hashtags such as #maythefourth, #starwarsday, and #maythefourthbewithyou.

Kentucky Derby (May 4)

Speaking of dressing to impress, May also hosts the world’s most renowned horse race, the Kentucky Derby. This event is synonymous with dapper seersucker suits and extravagant, eye-catching headwear. While anyone can partake in the festivities, businesses operating within the fashion, travel, or lifestyle industries should particularly prioritize Derby-related content.

While party tips and classic mint julep recipes are always excellent choices, don’t limit yourself! These additional content ideas will ensure your May marketing efforts are off to the races.

• Collaborate with an influential figure in your niche to create a compelling “Get Ready With Me” post, showcasing every aspect of Derby Day preparation, from meticulous makeup application and stylish hat selections to transportation arrangements for the highly anticipated event.
• Host an interactive online watch party to unite your audience and foster a sense of community.
• Design a Kentucky Derby-themed bingo card featuring common sights and occurrences during the race.
• Boost engagement by asking people to predict the race winner and randomly selecting a winner from the correct predictions to receive a special prize.

More May pop cultural content ideas

These examples represent just a fraction of the May content ideas you can develop by drawing inspiration from pop culture events. Consider incorporating these additional themed days into your content strategy:

• Paranormal Day (May 3)
• National Space Day (May 3)
• National Golf Day (May 10)
• National Twilight Zone Day (May 11)
• National Limerick Day (May 12)
• National Classic Movie Day (May 16)
• National Talk Like Yoda Day (May 21)
• Sherlock Holmes Day (May 22)

Social awareness May content ideas

You have both a platform and a mission. May presents a prime opportunity to intertwine the two and demonstrate your support for various important causes observed this month.

Mental Health Awareness Month

Fortunately, it’s becoming increasingly common for people are having to engage in more open dialogues about mental health; however, a degree of stigma still persists. Mental Health Awareness Month aims to further these conversations and disseminate valuable information to empower everyone to thrive. Reserve a few slots in your May content calendar to help spread awareness and promote positive mental well-being.

Education, empathy, and accessibility should be central themes throughout Mental Health Awareness Month. Keep these principles in mind as you share content that encourages your audience to reflect on the significance of mental health in their own lives.

• Consider inviting a qualified mental health professional to manage your social media accounts for a day, offering valuable tips on stress reduction techniques, effective conflict resolution strategies, and other prevalent challenges.
• Provide readily accessible resources by sharing links and contact numbers for mental health organizations and healthcare providers.
• Create and share a soothing music playlist designed to promote relaxation and tranquility.
• If you feel comfortable doing so, consider sharing a personal anecdote about your own mental health journey to foster connection and understanding.
• Promote local events, such as 5K races or awareness walks, that benefit mental health organizations and support their missions.

National Nurses Day (May 6)

The nursing profession is both undeniably demanding and absolutely essential. Devoting some of your content to acknowledging these exceptional healthcare professionals is highly appropriate. Expressing your support for nurses doesn’t necessitate elaborate posts or even a direct connection to the medical field.

Interestingly, May is home to two nurse-related holidays: National Nurses Day (May 12) and International Nurses Day (May 13). Having a few content ideas ready for both days will ensure you’re well-prepared.

• Offer insights into the diverse world of nursing by listing various nursing specializations and outlining the specific responsibilities associated with each.
• Show your appreciation tangibly by offering nurses an exclusive discount or hosting a giveaway specifically tailored for them.
• Provide valuable information by compiling a list of freebies and discounts offered to nurses by local businesses or online retailers.
• Encourage your followers to express their gratitude by sharing thoughtful ways to show support for the nurses in their lives.

National Rescue Dog Day (May 20)

“Adopt, don’t shop” is a pervasive motto within animal rescue communities nationwide. This message highlights the overabundance of rescue dogs in need of loving homes, many of whom are living in less-than-ideal circumstances. Your May content can play a part in connecting these deserving canines with their perfect forever families. Just look at this adorable face!

One of the most rewarding aspects of creating content for this awareness day is that posts featuring animals are almost universally adored. Utilize these ideas to make a positive impact while simultaneously increasing your brand’s visibility.

• This day presents a prime opportunity to leverage user-generated content. Encourage your followers to actively participate by sharing heartwarming images or videos of their own rescue dogs.
• Establish a mutually beneficial partnership with local rescue organizations to showcase adoptable dogs in need of homes.
• Provide a valuable resource by compiling a list of volunteer opportunities available at local dog shelters. Better yet, consider taking it a step further by organizing a dedicated volunteer day.
• To ease the transition for new pet parents, invite a certified dog trainer to share practical training tips specifically tailored for newly adopted rescue dogs. This will help alleviate any concerns and instill confidence in potential adopters.

Other awareness May content ideas

Still searching for more content inspiration? Not to worry, there are plenty of worthy causes to choose from! Select a few that resonate with you and your brand from this list to complete your content calendar.

• ALS Awareness Month
• Brain Cancer Awareness Month
• Cancer Research Month
• National Lyme Disease Awareness Month
• National Skilled Trades Day (May 1)
• National Public Radio Day (May 3)
• International Firefighters Day (May 4)
• National Teacher Appreciation Day (May 7)
• National Ovarian Cancer Day (May 8)
• World Red Cross and Red Crescent Day (May 8)
• National Small Business Day (May 10) (Small Business Week April 28 to May 4)
• National Hospital Day (May 12)
• International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia (May 17)
• Global Accessibility Awareness Day (May 18)
• World Multiple Sclerosis Day (May 20)
• World Hunger Day (May 28)

Food and drink May content ideas

Content focused on food and drink is always a surefire way to pique your audience’s interest—after all, everyone enjoys a tasty treat! Incorporate a few of these ideas into your May content strategy for an extra dose of engagement.

National Give Someone a Cupcake Day (May 8)

Some might argue that cupcakes are merely muffins adorned with fancier frosting, but we believe they’re a delightful confection worthy of their own special day. National Give Someone a Cupcake Day allows you to honor these handheld treats while simultaneously spreading joy.

If your business has a physical storefront, consider handing out a few dozen of the most delectable cupcakes you can find and promoting this generous act on social media. Even without a physical location, there are still ample opportunities to participate in the joy of sharing these miniature cakes.

• Share coveted secret recipes from your staff’s favorite cupcake creations or reveal their go-to bakeries for satisfying their sweet cravings.
• Encourage your followers to pay it forward by asking them to tag you in videos capturing the act of gifting cupcakes to their loved ones.
• For a health-conscious twist, collaborate with a baking enthusiast to develop healthier alternatives to common cupcake ingredients, such as refined sugar and all-purpose flour. Share these guilt-free variations in a dedicated post.
• Inject some humor into your feed by posting a funny cupcake-themed image and challenging your audience to come up with witty captions.

National Barbecue Day (May 16)

People are often fiercely proud of their regional barbecue traditions. Whether it’s the smoky flavors of Texas barbecue, the tangy zest of Memphis-style ribs, or the vinegar-based sauces favored in the Carolinas, everyone believes their local ‘que reigns supreme and is more than happy to playfully tease other styles. This good-natured banter naturally lends itself to high engagement on social media posts. Capitalize on this by sharing content about the “best” barbecue on May 16th.

Here are a few ideas to ignite engaging barbecue-related conversations within your May content:

• Spark friendly debate by polling your audience about their preferred barbecue cooking methods or sauce profiles.
• Create an informative and visually appealing infographic outlining different barbecue styles across various regions.
• Cater to local enthusiasts by crafting a blog post detailing the most exceptional barbecue restaurants in your city or town.
• Share captivating trivia and interesting facts about the world of barbecue (did you know that the current world record holder ate over 13 pounds of ribs in a mere 12 minutes?).

Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day (May 21)

While indulging in savory meats and decadent frostings is undeniably enjoyable, it’s crucial to prioritize balance in our diets. That’s precisely what Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day encourages us to do.

Although this particular holiday might not initially seem as inherently captivating as some of the others on this list, you can still craft compelling and helpful content around it.

• Foster a sense of community and promote well-being by partnering with local businesses, such as gyms, massage therapists, nutritionists, and health food stores, to orchestrate a collaborative online health fair.
• Present valuable information concisely by creating a visually engaging chart that highlights the key health benefits of various fruits and vegetables.
• Support local businesses and encourage healthy eating habits by promoting nearby farms and farmers’ markets.
• Provide a helpful resource by sharing a list of locally grown produce, indicating when each item is in season.
• Collaborate with a local restaurant or chef to curate a collection of simple, healthy recipes that showcase in-season fruits and vegetables at their peak flavor.

Other food and drink content ideas

The month of May is teeming with days dedicated to celebrating a diverse array of foods and beverages. You could even dedicate a social media post to listing these culinary holidays. Alternatively, select a few that particularly appeal to you and develop captivating content around them.

• American Cheese Month
• National Chocolate Parfait Day (May 1)
• National Truffle Day (May 2)
• National Coconut Cream Pie Day (May 8)
• International Hummus Day (May 13)
• National Chocolate Chip Day (May 15)
• National Mushroom Hunting Day (May 17)
• National Pizza Party Day (May 17)
• World Baking Day (May 19)
• National Wine Day (May 25)

Infuse warmth into your marketing channels with these captivating May content ideas

May brings a palpable sense of anticipation and excitement, fueled by visions of outdoor gatherings, scenic road trips, and sun-drenched days spent poolside. By aligning your May content with this vibrant energy, you’ll ensure it stands out amidst the noise of cluttered feeds, overflowing inboxes, and endless Google searches. If your goal is to enhance all your marketing endeavors to generate more leads and ultimately drive sales, explore how our innovative marketing solutions can empower your business throughout the year! For a wealth of additional May marketing inspiration, delve into these insightful posts:

• May Social Media Holidays & Ideas to Fill Your Marketing Calendar
• May Email Subject Lines to Bring in Revenue All Month Long
• May Marketing Ideas (&Examples) for Any Business or Budget
• May Newsletter Ideas to Engage Your Readers All Month Long
• Simple, Meaningful Mother’s Day Marketing Ideas
• Ready-to-Go Mother’s Day Messages for Social Media, Email, & More
• Happy Mother’s Day Social Media Posts Ideas & Tips (+Free Templates)
• Memorial Day Messages for Your Customers, Coworkers, & Community
• Memorial Day Instagram Captions (+7 Ready Made Images)
• Memorial Day Promotions & Marketing Ideas You Can Pull Off Last-Minute