Greetings {name},

Thursday, May 18 is International Museum Day, a good opportunity to visit, appreciate, and support your local museum.

Friday, May 19, the third Friday in May, is National Endangered Species Day, a time to raise awareness about the many animals that are on the endangered species list.

Saturday, May 20 is Armed Forces Day, an opportunity to pay tribute to all men and women who serve the United States’ armed forces. 

Monday, May 22 is National Maritime Day, reflecting the gratitude that Americans have for the maritime industry and the benefits it brings to the country.

Thursday, May 25 is National Missing Children's Day, an annual observation in the United States designed to highlight the problem of child abduction.

Friday, May 26 is Sally Ride Day, honoring the first American woman astronaut to go into space.

Sunday, May 28 is Amnesty International Day, recognizing the need to protect human rights around the world.

Monday, May 29 caps off Memorial Day Weekend. Formerly known as Decoration Day this Monday holiday commemorates all men and women who have died in military service for the United States. It also represents the traditional end of school year and beginning of the summer vacation season with picnics, sports events and family gatherings throughout the weekend.

Historic Cauley Square is home to ten acres of beautiful gardens, with many craft shops, art galleries, a book store, the Village Chalet and the legendary Tea Room.

Weekend of May 19-21

Redland International Orchid Festival

Located at the idyllic Redland Fruit and Spice Park in South Dade, the Redland International Orchid Festival is world renowned as a bucket list event for orchid lovers. Join the best orchid growers in the world along with fellow avid orchid fans for three and a half days of pure orchid mania at the Fruit & Spice Park. Get details and purchase discount tickets online.

Friday, May 19 from 7pm

Electric Fridays at the Winery

Fridays are for electrifying beats and an unforgettable experience at Schnebly Winery. Dance the night away to the incredible tunes of DJ Devious Remix, enjoy delicious drinks, and indulge in the vibrant atmosphere. Entrance is $10, or $20 for VIP Seating, including a Jello Shot or water bottle. Get details and purchase tickets online.

Saturday, May 20 from 10am to 1pm

Homework Help and Tutoring

Certified teachers meet with small groups of students at the South Dade Regional Library in one-hour sessions to provide homework help and tutoring in reading, math, and science. Students are encouraged to bring homework material or school assignments for assistance in specific subject areas. This free service is available to all students in grades K-12. Get details online.

Saturday, May 20 from 2 to 6pm

Military Appreciation Day in Homestead

The tenth Annual Military Appreciation Day brings excitement and entertainment to downtown Homestead, with food, drinks, live music, and special performances to mark the occasion. Check out the collection of vintage and modern military vehicles such as boats, weaponry, and other interactive displays. This free community event centers at the newly expanded and renovated Losner Park located at 104 North Krome Avenue. Get details online.

Saturday, May 20 from 5 to 9pm

Seafood Truck Night At Brandsmart

Enjoy a selection of fabulous seafood with Island Boyz Conch Shack, plus live music at the BrandsMart parking lot at US1 and SW 159th Street in Perrine. Get details on Facebook.

Monday, May 22 at 1:30pm

Book Discussion - A Man Called Ove

Join the local book discussion group every fourth Monday of the month -- now reading A Man Called Ove by Fredrik Backman. Please visit the branch to pick up a copy of this month's title. Call the library at 305-233-8140 or email: crespim@mdpls.org. Appropriate for ages 19 years and older. Get details online.

Tuesday, May 23 at 7pm

East Everglades Annual Orchid Auction

Make plans to attend the annual orchid auction presented by the East Everglades Orchid Society, at the University of Florida Miami-Dade Extension, 18710 SW 288 Street. Get details online.

Saturday, May 27 from 9am to 6pm

FARA Usa Memorial 300 Racing

Enjoy a day of high-speed action and adrenaline-pumping thrills with some of the best drivers in the region showcasing their skills, as they compete for the FARA championship title. The family will love this thrilling Memorial Weekend experience, with food trucks and lots of activities for the kids at Homestead-Miami Speedway. Get details and free tickets online.

Saturday, May 27 from 5 to 9pm

6th Annual ArtWalk Homestead

Bring the family to Losner Park for the 6th annual Artwalk Homestead event, with local artists, entertainment and a host of civic organizations for a one day free community event featuring interactive art activities led by professional artists and human resources. Get details and RSVP online.

Saturday, May 27 at 7:30pm

Workin' 9 to 5 Dance Recital

Donna Lee Studio of Dance presents Workin' 9 to 5 -- their 44th Annual dance recital featuring dancers ages 3 to 18 with solo performances from graduating seniors. The program encourages every child to develop self-confidence, physical coordination, and muscular dexterity; as well as grace, poise, and charm. Get details and purchase tickets online.

Monday, May 29 from 8am to 11am

VFW Post 4127 Memorial Day Ceremony

The public is cordially invited to participate in the Memorial Day Ceremony sponsored by Homestead VFW Post 4127 at Woodlawn Cemetery, Old Dixie Hwy at SW 272 Street, honoring the memory of the men and women who have fought to defend our nation and liberty. The event begins with coffee and donuts at 7am before the opening ceremony at 8am. At 9am, the flag will be raised and lowered to half-mast followed by 21-gun salute by the Honor Guard, followed by TAPS. Join in the posting of flags on the graves of all Veterans. Following the ceremony, all are invited to the VFW Post for hot dogs and hamburgers. The post is open every Tuesday through Sunday at 3pm for food, drinks, fun -- and most of all service to veterans -- at 601 NE 2nd Road. Get details online. Call 305-245-4535. https://vfw4127.org

Seven Days A Week

Extended Hours at Miami Brewing Company

Enjoy the delicious brews, vibrant atmosphere and extended hours of operation at Miami Brewing Company. Now open Monday to Wednesday from 11am to 8pm; Thursday from 11am to 10pm; Friday from 11am to 1am; Saturday from 11am to midnight; and Sunday from 11am to 9pm. Check out the updated calendar of events.

Free County Service

Irrigation System Assessment

Miami-Dade residents can qualify for rebates following a free irrigation system assessment. Eligible applicants can receive up to $500 for single-family homes and $2,850 for condominium associations in rebates per year. Learn more about the program and read tips on how to water wisely. Get details online.

Prompt Friendly Service

Pro Irrigation Solutions

When you need assistance with your home and garden irrigation needs, including ensuring compliance with the Miami-Dade County rebate program, contact Anthony Harris at Pro Irrigation Solutions for installation, service and repair. Estimates are free. Call 954-701-5206 or email proirrigationsolutions@gmail.com