There are so many days to celebrate in May that one’s calendar fills up fast. A few include Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 10; Cinco De Mayo on Tuesday, May 5; and Memorial Day on Monday, May 25. And there are many more reasons and days to celebrate in May, not to mention the chance to get out and enjoy the cooler days before the summer heat.

One great place to enjoy a day in May, including Mother’s Day, is to head to the Edison and Ford Winter Estates in Fort Myers, where many of the plants are in full bloom, and everything is coming to life. ‘New leaves are popping out on trees, and many spring-blooming plants are showing off,” explains Marketing & PR Director Lisa Wilson. This spring is especially glorious because many trees and shrubs lost their leaves during the abnormally cold weather that SE Florida experienced in January. 

The Stella by Starlight rose blooms in full glory in front of the Ford home at Edison and Ford Winter Estates. These spring roses are looking extra radiant this year, celebrating May's arrival after a challenging winter season.

Wilson points out a few notable ones, adding that “Some roses at the Estate look extra glorious this time of year, including the Stella by Starlight rose in front of the Ford home, and some of the roses in Clara Ford’s rose garden. Bougainvilleas and Bromeliads are also looking spectacular.” Also, the Royal Poinciana trees start blooming toward the end of May. Furthermore. at the 20-acre Estates are the Edison and Ford historic homes and buildings, Edison’s Botanical Research Laboratory, and the Edison and Ford Museum. Various tours are available.

​Cinco de Mayo celebrations take place in many locations across SW Florida, including the Cinco de Mayo Pub Crawl at Bell Tower in Fort Myers. This festive event features margaritas, delicious food, a live DJ and music, dancing, and more. Participants purchase passports that allow them to explore various Bell Tower restaurants and businesses while enjoying drinks, tasty bites, and plenty of fun. The festivities begin at 6 pm.

Memorial Day is a Federal holiday that honors and recognizes military personnel who died in service, and BBQ events have long been associated with that day. Some enjoy backyard celebrations with burgers, corn on the cob, and baked beans. Others head to a local Lee County park such as Lakes Park in Fort Myers, where a chance to ride on a miniature train is a popular choice, and kayaks, swan paddle boats, and bicycles are available to rent from Wheel Fun Rentals. Plus, the Whistle Stop Ice Cream Shoppe is a cool-down favorite.

So, get out and make May memorable!

Ann Marie O’Phelan is a SW Florida resident and a regular contributor to TOTI Media.