May is a transitional month in the Phoenix area. The weather is typically already hot and there are fewer outdoor events. Our winter visitors leave during this time, heading off to cooler parts. At the same time, most schools close for summer vacation during May, so more events are kid-oriented. You can atill find activities, both outside and indoors, to entertain you, your friends and your family.
These are many of the community events that you can count on year in and year out. All dates, prices, and activities mentioned are subject to change without notice. Check the web site or call to confirm information. The activities in this event calendar are appropriate for families unless otherwise indicated. If the event is free, I'll mention that, too.
Looking for big name concerts, shows or theatre? Check this calendar for May performances.
More Event Calendars
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | JunJul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec
Event Calendar - May
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2nd Friday Night Out
Art, dining, shopping, activities, entertainment, and fun. Main between Center and Country Club in Mesa. The information booth located on Main and Macdonald has a map of the evening's activities and locations. Bring your kids. Bring your dog. Free.
In 2013: May 10 -
Afternoon Concert Series
Bringing live music to the downtown lunch scene from 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the amphitheater stage at Civic Space Park, 424 N. Central Ave. Call for info 602-262-7490.
In 2013: May ? -
The Ameri”CAN” Canned Craft Beer Festival
Celebrating the craft beer movement. Award Ceremony, live entertainment, food, VIP, beer science garden, beer Olympics and over 40 local and national breweries celebrating the canned craft beer revolution. Scottsdale Civic Center Amphitheater.
In 2013: May 18 -
Arizona Derby Dames
All-girl roller derby since 2006. Now playing on a banked track. Arizona Veterans Memorial Coliseum, Phoenix.
In 2013: May 4 -
Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball
The Arizona Diamondbacks play professional Baseball at Chase Field. Video: Chase Field Tour.
In 2013: Various dates in May -
Arizona Tattoo Expo
Tattoos, piercings, contests, vendors. Mesa Convention Center.
In 2013: May 3, 4, 5 -
ArtBridge Thursdays
Artists, crafters and jewelers exhibit and sell items in a family-friendly, festive environment. SouthBridge, Downtown Scottsdale. Free admission.
In 2013: Every Thursday in May -
Astronomy Evenings
A talk (novice level) explaining facts about the solar system and the galaxy around the planet earth followed by observing the moon, several planets, star systems through a celestron telescope. Weather permitting. Registration required. Ages 8+. Pinnacle Peak Park, Scottsdale.
In 2013: May 4 -
Audubon Arizona Nature Film Festival
Join fellow nature lovers for a silent auction, picnic supper and exclusive screening of a noted nature film. Harkins Camelview, Phoenix.
In 2013: May 30 -
Birds in the Garden
Join expert birders for a morning bird walk along the Garden trails. Everyone, including first-time birders, is welcome. Wear a hat, sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes. Bring binoculars if available. Desert Botanical Garden, Phoenix at 7 a.m. This activity is included in the regular admission fee.
In 2013: Every Monday in May -
Birds 'n' Beer
Birds 'n Beer offers local professionals a fun and refreshing way to learn about Arizona birds and other wildlife while networking with fellow nature-lovers. Have a cold brew while enjoying an enlightening and lively presentation on Arizona nature. Nina Mason Pulliam Rio Salado Audubon Center in Phoenix. RSVP requested 602-468-6470.
In 2013: May 16 -
Blues, Bruise and BBQs
Blues bands, body-painting competition, beer gardens, entertainment. Goodyear.
In 2013: May ? -
Carefree Sundays at el Pegregal
Free musical entertainment from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. There is no admission fee but food must be purchased. el Pedregal, Scottsdale.
In 2013: May 5, 12 -
Cinco de Mayo Celebrations
Neighborhood and community Cinco de Mayo celebrations are free or very reasonably priced. You'll find lots of Latino music, dance, Mexican food, games--it's fiesta time!
In 2013: First week in May -
Community Cinema
Free movie and post-show discussion, presented by City of Mesa Office of Diversity, City of Mesa Human Relations Advisory Board, Mesa Arts Center, ITVS Community Cinema and Eight Arizona PBS. Dobson Lecture Hall at Mesa Arts Center. Free.
In 2013: May 16 -
Desert Botanical Garden Butterfly Pavilion
Walk among the beautiful butterflies at this special springtime event located at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix.
In 2013: March 2 - May 12 -
Downtown Chandler Art Walk
Visit more than 70 artisans set up along the streets in front of the unique shops and cafes of Historic Downtown Chandler. Free.
In 2013: May 17 -
Farmers Markets
Vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers, breads, jams, cheeses, juices, local specialty foods and crafts. Several locations.
In 2013: Various dates in May -
First Friday
Visit more than 100 downtown Phoenix art galleries, studios and art spaces. Free.
In 2013: First Friday of the month -
Flashlight Tours at Desert Botanical Garden
See, hear and feel the desert night including, nighthawks, tortoises, insects and night-blooming flowers. Bring a flashlight and wear comfortable shoes. Tours begin at 7 p.m. Recommended for families and children of all ages. Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix.
In 2013: Thursday and Saturday evenings in May -
Free Art Friday
Preschoolers and their parents participate in an activity involving art and/or music. The theme varies from month to month. No registration required. Free. Tempe.
In 2013: May 17 -
Friday Night Franks
A unique outdoor cookout experience in the Sonoran desert. Live entertainment, Native American storytelling, horseshoes, wagon rides, and an old fashioned wiener roast. Free admission, charge for food and beverages. Fort McDowell Adventures.
In 2013: every Friday night in May until Memorial Day
Next Page >> More May Festivals and Events
All dates, times, prices and offerings are subject to change without notice.
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