World Country Days

A month-by-month guide to national days, independence celebrations and cultural festivals from countries around the world.

Classroom tip: Check what national day is coming up next week, find that country on the Can Do Kids globe, and ask students to discover three interesting things about the culture. A great five-minute starter activity!

May

This month
⚒️
International Labour Day / May DayMany countries

Celebrates workers and their rights — a public holiday in over 80 countries worldwide.

May 1
🇯🇵
Children's Day (Kodomo no Hi)Japan

Part of Golden Week — families display koinobori (carp streamers) symbolising strength and perseverance.

May 5
🇲🇽
Cinco de MayoMexico

Commemorates the Mexican army's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

May 5
🇳🇴
Constitution Day (Syttende Mai)Norway

Norway's National Day — one of the world's most festive, with children's parades and traditional dress.

May 17
🇰🇿
Constitution DayKazakhstan

Marks the adoption of Kazakhstan's first constitution in 1995.

May 17
🌍
Africa DayAfrican continent

Celebrates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (now the African Union) in 1963.

May 25

Bring These Days to Life in Your Classroom

Can Do Kids Worldwide covers 100+ countries with Explorer Guides, music, quizzes, and virtual travel experiences. Use a national day as your hook — then take students on a virtual visit.