National May Ray Day

National May Ray Day lights up our calendars on May 19th, allowing everyone to enjoy the sunshine. This day is about stepping outside, soaking in the Vitamin D, and embracing the sun’s warmth.

It marks a time to celebrate the brighter, warmer days as we move further into spring and edge closer to summer.

The reason behind celebrating this day is quite interesting. It ties back to a historical event in 1780, when an unexpected and unexplained darkness covered New England, causing confusion and fear.

This event, often remembered on May 19th, serves as a backdrop for appreciating the light and warmth the sun provides.

The day also stems from a personal celebration by Richard Ankli in 1977, honoring his brother Ray’s birthday. Thus, we all have a reason to cherish the sunlight and the joy it brings.

History of National May Ray Day

National May Ray Day, celebrated on May 19th, has an interesting history tied to a personal commemoration and natural phenomena.

It began with a comedian named Richard Ankli, who decided to honor his brother, Ray Ankli, by celebrating his birthday on this day back in 1977. This personal celebration occurred in St. Joseph, Michigan, specifically at the Broadway Fun Spot, a place associated with the Ankli family.

This marked the beginning of National May Ray Day, a day to celebrate not just a person named Ray but also to appreciate May’s sunshine and warmth as we transition from spring to summer​​​​​​.

The day also coincides with a historically dark day in 1780 when an unexplained darkness covered much of New England. This event, known for causing widespread fear and confusion, contrastingly underlines the importance of sunlight in our lives, adding depth to the celebration of May Ray Day​​.

Although initially meant to honor a specific individual named Ray, the day has evolved to celebrate the broader concept of enjoying and appreciating the sun’s rays. It encourages people to step outside, enjoy the warmth, and participate in outdoor activities.

Whether taking a walk, gardening or simply enjoying the company of those who bring sunshine into our lives, May Ray Day reminds us of the joy and benefits of spending time in the sun. It’s a day that represents a personal celebration and a universal appreciation for the natural world​​​​.

How to Celebrate National May Ray Day

Celebration tips include leisurely walking, outdoor activities, or relaxing in a sunlit spot.

Whether it’s by getting into gardening, reading outdoors, or having a picnic, the essence of National May Ray Day is to relish the outdoors and the myriad benefits of sunlight, from boosting mood to enhancing health with essential vitamin D.

Some Ideas to Celebrate the Day

Stage a Sunrise Greeting Party: Who says you can’t have a party at dawn? Grab your coziest blanket and a cup of your favorite morning brew, and head to a spot where the sunrise is impeccable. Celebrate the first rays like rock stars making an entrance.

Embark on a Solar Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of sunny spots in town that feel like little slices of happiness. Parks, murals, quirky sculptures—anything that sparkles under the sun’s gaze. Snap a selfie with each find and share your adventure online.

Picnic with a Twist: Pack a picnic but ditch the usual spots. Find a place where you wouldn’t normally eat—a rooftop, an alley decked with art, or right in your front yard. Bonus points for sun-themed foods like sun-dried tomatoes and sunny-side-up eggs!

Dance in Daylight Disco: Why wait for the night to dance? Create a playlist of songs with ‘sun,’ ‘light,’ or ‘day’ in the title, and throw a daylight disco in your living room. Invite friends or have a solo jam—just let those rays be your disco ball.

Craft Sun Catchers: Get crafty and make sun catchers to hang in your windows. Use colorful beads, glass, or even recycled materials. It’s a great way to catch and scatter joyful light around your home.

Host an Outdoor Game Marathon: Gather your pals for a series of sun-friendly games. Think frisbee, beach volleyball, or a good old-fashioned water balloon fight. It’s all about laughing under the sun.

Sunset Serenade: Cap off May Ray Day with a tribute to the sun’s daily curtain call. Find a cozy spot, perhaps with a view of the horizon, and enjoy the changing sky. Then, feel gratitude for the day’s light, perhaps with some acoustic music or quiet reflection.