Walt Whitman
Poet who wrote O Captain! My Captain!
National days, ongoing national weeks and months, and global observances for May 31, 2027. Plus historical events and birthdays.

May 31, 2027 celebrates Memorial Day, plus 7 more. Each year in the United States, Americans observe the Federal holiday, Memorial Day, the last Monday in May. It honors and remembers all men and women who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
Read the full story →It's May 31 and National Smile Day! Today we are encouraging everyone to wear their best smile!
Read the full story →Each year on May 31, we celebrate the small coconut cookie that is full of flavor and variety on National Macaroon Day. Do not mistaken these with the delicate sandwich cookies called macarons. No, these small, but substantial cookies hold their own despite the sometimes mistaken identity. For coconut lovers, this day summons up a little bit of bliss.
Read the full story →Necrotizing Fasciitis Awareness Day on May 31 shines a light on a rare disease that affects the soft tissues of the skin. We also learn about why it's important to treat necrotizing fasciitis appropriately and immediately to avoid rapid spread of the disease.
Read the full story →Observe the future on May 31 with National Autonomous Vehicle Day! This is your opportunity to experience the realization of science and technology merging like never before. Buckle up as we take you on a ride to learn what technology is doing to our cars!
Read the full story →National Speak in Complete Sentences Day is observed annually on May 31 as a day dedicated to using proper sentence structure while speaking. Join us as we try to articulate why speaking clearly is important.
Read the full story →On May 31, we celebrate The Beehive State on National Utah Day! This initiative is our way of honoring each state in the order they joined the Union, offering a dedicated day to celebrate the unique heritage, achievements, and spirit of each state.
Read the full story →National Save Your Hearing Day on May 31 recognizes the importance of preserving our hearing. It is important to take some time to learn ways to protect your hearing and that of your family. Our hearing is vital, and there are ways that hearing loss can be avoidable.
Read the full story →People born on May 31
Poet who wrote O Captain! My Captain!
The youngest West Point graduate to become a Major General (at the time).
Musician and founder of the 1960s musical group Peter, Paul and Mary.
Co-founder of the Ringling Brothers Circus.
Considered one of the greatest NFL quarterbacks of all time.
Events that occurred on May 31 throughout history
The Copyright Act of 1790 is enacted, making it the first copyright law. The Act granted American citizens the exclusive right to print and publish books, maps, and charts for an initial 14-year term, with the option to renew for an additional 14 years.
Congress passed the first Enforcement Act outlining the rights of Blacks. The Act outlawed voter suppression, provided criminal penalties for using force, bribery, or violence to prevent African Americans from exercising their civil rights
Gilmore's Garden in New York City is renamed Madison Square Garden after President Madison.
The League of American Wheelmen forms, becoming the first bicycle association in the U.S. The League championed cyclists' rights and pushed for paved roads.
John Harvey Kellogg excluded his brother Will Kellogg when he filed an application for the patent for "flaked cereal, and process of making same."
Longer-running observances that include this date.
Showing the first 12 — See all months for May.