May Dates You Need To Add To Your Marketing Strategy (Especially If You're in Hospitality or Retail)

Spring’s in full swing, bank holiday season is doing the most, and May is basically a social media goldmine if you’re running a hospitality business or small brand in Yorkshire. From quirky awareness days to big bank holiday moments, here are the dates that can boost your content, drive footfall, and make your socials way less boring.

1. May 2nd – National Space Day (Yes, really 🚀)

It’s random, it’s fun, and it's ideal for quirky content. Think cosmic cocktails, galaxy cupcakes, or a “space to unwind” relaxation post.

Marketing Move: Share a fun themed product, playlist, or drink special. Caption it with something cheeky like, "Out of office. Entering orbit."

2. May 5th – Early May Bank Holiday (AKA a massive weekend)

It’s a long weekend and people want vibes. The Sunday before (May 4th) is just as important — perfect for events, day drinking, or that cute lil' retail splurge.

Hospitality Tip: Push bookings early, post your menu or offers in the week leading up, and remind people your venue = long weekend HQ.

3. May 13th – World Cocktail Day (Let the shaking commence)

Cocktail culture is a whole thing — and this is your excuse to celebrate it. Whether you're slinging margaritas or creating custom mixes, get it on the 'gram.

Social Idea: Launch a limited-edition cocktail for the day, post a behind-the-scenes of your mixology magic, or run a vote on "name our next drink" to drive interaction.

4. May 20th – World Bee Day

Sweeten up your feed with honey-themed specials or supplier shoutouts. It’s great for highlighting local produce and sustainability too.

Local Biz Tip: Shout out a local honey supplier, run a one-day special (like honey-glazed treats or bee-themed lattes), and use #SupportLocalYorkshire.

5. May 26th – Spring Bank Holiday (Another biggie)

Another long weekend means another opportunity to fill seats, sell out specials, and give the people what they want: a good time.

Promo Tip: Start hyping the weekend early. Use Stories to tease specials, throw in a cheeky countdown, and remind folks why your spot is the place to spend the day off.

6. May 29th – Start of National BBQ Week (Grill season is ON 🍔)

Whether you have a full-on BBQ setup or just vibes and sliders, this is your moment to get smoky.

Content Idea: Post a BBQ-themed menu, showcase your team grilling behind the scenes, or run a poll on BBQ faves (ribs or veggie skewers?).

7. Every Weekend in May – Brunch Content = Easy Engagement

May weekends are made for slow mornings, Aperol afternoons, and shameless brunch pics. Don’t sleep on posting them.

Inspo: Share behind-the-scenes brunch prep, run a “what would you order?” poll, or spotlight your most tagged brunch plate.

May is stacked with chances to build momentum for your brand. Whether you're a coffee shop in Sheffield, a boutique in Leeds, or a bar in York, jumping on the right dates (with the right content) can drive engagement and bring real customers through your doors.

Want help turning dates into full-on digital magic? Trendyn Social is here to help Yorkshire brands glow up online and take the stress off your (already too busy) back! Subscribe to our newsletter below to receive daily tips so you'll never have to remember to chat gpt it ever again.

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