15 Things to do in the Rochester area before the end of May

They say April showers bring May flowers. so what better time than to really get into the spring and early summer mode.

1. Start your garden! Get your garden growing this month – learn about planning a garden with kids here:
2. Help honey bees. Learn about what you can do to help the honey bee population including planting native flowers, raising awareness, and more.
3. May 4^th is National Bird Day. Check out these five places to learn about birds.
4. Get in a morning hike. Strap on the hiking boots and see some birds with an early morning hike at the Cumming Nature Center. Happening Saturday mornings May 7, 14, & 21.
5. Celebrate Mom! There is lots to do this Mother’s Day and many area locations including Wickham Farms, Genesee Country Village and Museum, Montezuma Audubon Center and more are having special events and activities just for mom!
6. Dive into a book! Got teens? Bring them to the Greater Rochester Teen Book Festival happening on May 14^th where they can meet some of their favorite award-winning authors, snag author autographs, hang with friends, attend presentations and lots more.
7. May 15^th is National Chocolate Chip Day. Try these easy (4 ingredient!) gluten and dairy-free chocolate chip cookies
8. Sniff the lilacs at the Rochester Lilac Festival, happening May 6-15.
9. May 18^th is International Museum Day. From flying to carousels and kazoos to photography, check out our list of awesome area museums here:
10. May 20^th is Pick Strawberries Day. Find out where to berry pick here:  Wondering what to do with your berry bounty once you pick it? Learn about the best ways to use and store your harvest.
11. May is National Bike Month. Grab your bike and helmet and head out to your favorite bike path or trail! Check out the Perinton Bike Rodeo happening on May 21^st.
12. Save some dough. Check out everything that is happening FREE this month.
13. See the stars. Telescope viewings happen each Saturday night at the RMSC Strasenburg Planetarium.
14. May 29^th is Learn About Composting Day. Composting is easier than you think – learn all about how to do it here:
15. Learn about the history of Memorial Day (which originated in Waterloo, New York!)