Family History: A Bridge of Celebrations

May is a month chuck full of celebration, making it the perfect time to reflect on the importance of family history. From "May the 4th Be With You" to Cinco de Mayo and Memorial Day, each observance connects us to traditions, stories, and values passed down through generations.

Holiday 1

"May the 4th Be With You" started as a playful nod to Star Wars fans but has grown into a celebration of storytelling and legacy (and sometimes even blue milk at the grocery store). Just like the Skywalkers and Solos, our own families carry sagas filled with triumphs, struggles, and hope. Sharing these stories helps younger generations understand where they come from — and inspires them to dream about where they're going.

Activities for May 4th:

Create a "Family Galaxy" tree, mapping ancestors like a Star Wars family tree using stars or constellations.
Host a Star Wars-themed movie marathon with family trivia breaks that could relate to moments in the movie. Chewbacca Nobake cookies are also a great idea.
Make custom "family crest" shields inspired by Star Wars houses.
Record a video where each family member tells their own "origin story." Feel free to dress in costume as well.
Dress up and do a photo shoot imagining your family in a galaxy far, far away. You can even edit out backgrounds or set up homemade backdrops, fans, and lights for fun special effects.

Holiday 2

Cinco de Mayo, often misunderstood as Mexico’s Independence Day, actually commemorates the Mexican army's unlikely victory over France at the Battle of Puebla. It's a reminder of resilience, unity, and cultural pride. For families with Mexican heritage, it’s an opportunity to share tales of ancestors who stood strong in the face of adversity.

Activities for Cinco de Mayo:

Cook a traditional family recipe together and talk about its history.
Create a scrapbook highlighting Mexican heritage and family stories.
Learn and perform a traditional Mexican dance together. Line dances are also festive.
Share family stories of immigration or cultural milestones.
Host a "heritage showcase" where each family member presents a cultural craft or story.

Holiday 3

Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the incredible women who nurture and shape our families. It’s also a moment to honor generations of mothers and grandmothers who passed down traditions, strength, and love. Family history lives strongly through the stories of mothers — the keepers of recipes, dreams, memories, and values.
Activities for Mother’s Day:

Create a family "Mothers Through the Generations" photo collage.
Record interviews with moms and grandmas sharing their favorite memories.
Bake a special family recipe passed down by a mother or grandmother.
Write letters of appreciation to mothers in your family history.
Plant a garden together, dedicating it to the mothers in your family.

Holiday 4

Later in the month, Memorial Day invites all Americans to pause and honor those who gave their lives in service to the nation. Many families have personal connections to military history, with loved ones who served in wars and conflicts. Sharing their stories — their courage, sacrifice, and dreams — keeps their memory alive and honors their place in the broader American story.

Activities for Memorial Day:

Visit a cemetery or memorial and leave flowers in honor of veterans.
Create a memory wall at home featuring photos and stories of family service members.
Write letters to active-duty military members or veterans.
Organize a family "history night" to share military service stories.
Make a family timeline that highlights important moments of service and sacrifice.

Each of these days, in their unique way, encourages us to connect with our roots. Family history isn't just about names and dates; it's about the spirit, courage, and values that flow through us. As we celebrate, let's take time to listen, share, and preserve the legacies that continue to guide and inspire us.