May Foodie Calendar: Savor Strawberries, Cocktails, & Every Delicious Day

Strawberries, Cocktails & More: What to Eat & Drink This May

As spring blossoms into full swing, May arrives with a vibrant array of flavors, aromas, and culinary celebrations. It’s a month that invites us to step into the kitchen, fire up the grill, or simply raise a glass in good company. From the sweet indulgence of fresh berries to the smoky delight of barbecue and the sophisticated clink of cocktail glasses, May offers an endless canvas for foodie adventures. Get ready to explore a calendar packed with delicious opportunities to eat, drink, and be merry!

This month truly kicks off the season of outdoor dining and fresh produce. With National Strawberry Month leading the charge, alongside World Baking Day and World Cocktail Day, there’s an undeniable buzz in the air. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a home cooking enthusiast, May’s food calendar provides the perfect excuse to get creative and savor every moment.

🗓️ Monthly Food Holidays – May: A Season of Flavor

May isn’t just about daily delights; it’s a month-long celebration of some of our most beloved foods. These extended festivities give us ample time to dive deep into flavors and traditions, making the most of the spring season’s bounty.

• National Barbecue Month: As temperatures rise, so does the desire to grill! National Barbecue Month is the unofficial start to summer, inviting everyone to fire up their grills and enjoy smoky, tender meats and vegetables. Think juicy ribs, perfectly seared steaks, grilled corn, and vibrant veggie skewers. It’s a time for backyard gatherings, picnics, and savoring the unique flavors that only come from the flame. Embrace the art of outdoor cooking and experiment with new marinades and rubs.
• National Hamburger Month: A true American classic, the humble hamburger gets its well-deserved spotlight in May. From gourmet patties topped with artisanal cheeses and exotic sauces to the simple, comforting cheeseburger, there’s a burger for every palate. This month encourages us to explore different types of ground meat, plant-based alternatives, and creative toppings that elevate this staple to new culinary heights. Don’t forget the perfect bun and a side of crispy fries!
• National Salad Month: Celebrating the fresh, vibrant side of dining, National Salad Month is perfect for embracing lighter, healthier meals. May’s abundant produce offers a rainbow of ingredients: crisp lettuces, ripe tomatoes, crunchy cucumbers, and a variety of seasonal fruits and nuts. Whether you prefer a hearty main-course salad or a delicate side dish, this month inspires endless combinations and delicious, nutritious options. It’s an ideal time to experiment with homemade dressings and discover new flavor profiles.
• National Salsa Month: Spice up your life with National Salsa Month! This versatile condiment, ranging from mild and fruity to fiery hot, is celebrated for its ability to add zest to almost any dish. Beyond dipping tortilla chips, salsa is fantastic on tacos, enchiladas, grilled fish, or even as a vibrant topping for eggs. Explore traditional tomato-based salsas, or venture into fruit salsas with mango or pineapple for a sweeter kick. Making your own fresh salsa is a rewarding experience that truly captures the spirit of this holiday.
• National Strawberry Month: Perhaps the sweetest highlight of May is National Strawberry Month. These ruby-red jewels, bursting with flavor, are at their peak freshness in spring. From classic strawberry shortcake and refreshing strawberry smoothies to elegant tarts and savory salads, their versatility is unmatched. Beyond their delicious taste, strawberries are packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy indulgence. Look for local strawberry picking farms to enjoy the freshest berries and create unforgettable memories.

🗓️ Daily Food Holidays – May: A Treat Every Day!

Beyond the month-long celebrations, May offers a delightful daily calendar of culinary reasons to celebrate. From classic comfort foods to exotic flavors and sophisticated drinks, there’s a new taste experience waiting for you almost every single day. Here are some highlights to inspire your daily indulgence:

• May 1: National Chocolate Parfait Day
• May 2: National Truffle Day; World Tuna Day
• May 3: National Chocolate Custard Day; National Raspberry Popover Day; National Homebrew Day (first Saturday in May)
• May 4: National Orange Juice Day; National Candied Orange Peel Day
• May 5: Cinco de Mayo; National Hoagie Day; National Enchilada Day; National Totally Chipotle Day
• May 6: International No Diet Day; National Beverage Day; National Crêpes Suzette Day
• May 7: National Roast Leg of Lamb Day; National Cosmopolitan Day
• May 8: National Coconut Cream Pie Day; National Have A Coke Day
• May 9: National Butterscotch Brownie Day; National Foodies Day; National Moscato Day
• May 10: National Shrimp Day; National Liver & Onions Day
• May 11: Mother’s Day(second Sunday in May); National Eat What You Want Day; Hostess Cupcake Day
• May 12: National Nutty Fudge Day
• May 13: National Apple PieDay; International Hummus Day; National Fruit Cocktail Day; World Cocktail Day
• May 14: National Buttermilk Biscuit Day; National Brioche Day
• May 15: National Chocolate Chip Day
• May 16: National Barbecue Day; National Mimosa Day; National Pizza Party Day (third Friday of May)
• May 17: National Walnut Day; National Cherry Cobbler Day; National Pinot Grigio Day; World Whiskey Day (third Saturday in May)
• May 18: National Cheese Soufflé Day; National I Love Reese’s Day; World Baking Day (third Sunday in May)
• May 19: National Devil’s Food Cake Day
• May 20: National Pick Strawberries Day; National Quiche Lorraine Day
• May 21: National Strawberries and Cream Day; National Waitstaff Day
• May 22: National Vanilla Pudding Day
• May 23: National Drinking with Chickens Day; National Taffy Day
• May 24: National Escargot Day; National Asparagus Day
• May 25: National Brown-Bag-It Day; National Wine Day
• May 26: National Blueberry Cheesecake Day; National Cherry Dessert Day
• May 27: National Grape Popsicle Day
• May 28: National Brisket Day; International Hamburger Day
• May 29: National Coq Au Vin Day
• May 30: National Mint Julep Day
• May 31: National Macaroon Day

Among the many daily celebrations, some stand out for their widespread appeal and festive nature. Cinco de Mayo on May 5th is a fantastic opportunity to indulge in vibrant Mexican cuisine, from savory enchiladas to refreshing margaritas. A little over a week later, on May 11th, we celebrate Mother’s Day, a perfect occasion for a special brunch, homemade desserts, or a thoughtfully prepared family meal to honor the wonderful mothers in our lives.

For those who appreciate fine beverages, May is particularly exciting. May 13th marks World Cocktail Day, encouraging us to explore the art of mixology, whether crafting a classic gin and tonic or experimenting with more elaborate concoctions. Later in the month, May 17th celebrates World Whiskey Day, a prime moment to savor your favorite pour or discover a new distillery. And let’s not forget National Mimosa Day on May 16th, perfect for a celebratory brunch!

Baking enthusiasts also have their special day on May 18th with World Baking Day. This is the ideal time to whip up something warm, golden, and delicious, whether it’s a comforting loaf of bread, an elaborate cake, or a batch of cookies to share with loved ones. And tying back to our monthly theme, May 20th and 21st bring National Pick Strawberries Day and National Strawberries and Cream Day, reinforcing the joy of fresh, seasonal berries.

With so many delicious occasions, May truly is a foodie’s paradise. Whether you’re planning elaborate meals, enjoying simple treats, or raising a glass with friends, this month offers countless ways to savor life’s sweet moments. Embrace the flavors, gather with loved ones, and make every day in May a delicious celebration!