May Festivals & Events

In a large metropolitan area like Phoenix, you might expect that there is always something going on. You are correct! Phoenix, Peoria, Scottsdale, Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Glendale and many other communities have recurring events of which they are proud.

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 they event is free, I'll mention that, too.

Grab some friends, get out, and enjoy!

More Phoenix Event Calendars

Phoenix Event Calendar for May

• Concerts and Shows Scheduled For This Month in the Phoenix Area

• 4th Friday ArtWalk
  A sidewalk arts festival with wine tasting events, restaurant specials, and unique shops open for shopping. All work exhibited is original artwork produced by the artist. No imports or manufactured goods. From 6 to 9 p.m. at Mesa Riverview.
  In 2008: 4th Friday of the month

• Arizona Antique Show
  At the Arizona State Fairgrounds in Phoenix.
  In 2008: May 19, 20

• Arizona Diamondbacks Baseball
  The Arizona Diamondbacks play professional Baseball at Chase Field.
  In 2008: Various dates in May

• Arizona Lucky Ducky Derby
  Quacktivities start at 10 a.m. Duck Dump at 10:30 a.m. Benefits local Valley non-profit organizations through the adoption of ducks via Quack Packs. Scottsdale.
  In 2008: May 17

• Arizona Safe Boating Celebration
  Lake Pleasant. Free watercraft safety inspections. If a vessel fails, the owner is not cited during the event and may receive the items they need for compliance with Arizona laws free of charge. Educational opportunities and entertainment for boaters during their inspection that includes mussel identification, knot tying, carbon monoxide education, and more. Helicopter swimmer rescue demonstration.
  In 2008: May 17

• Arizona Special Olympics Summer Games
  2,000 athletes compete in track and field, powerlifting, gymnastics, softball skills, tennis and other events at the ASU Band Practice Field.
  In 2008: May 1 - 3

• 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 2008: Every Monday in May

• Chandler Spring Starlight Concert
  Free concerts at the amphitheater at Tumbleweed Park. Pack a picnic dinner, bring a blanket, sit out under the stars and listen to a different type of music each week
  In 2008: May 6

• 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 2008: First week in May

• Desert Botanical Garden Butterfly Pavilion
  Walk among the beautiful butterflies at this special springtime event at the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix.
  In 2008: March 1 - May 11, 2008

• Downtown Chandler Art Walk
  Visit more than 40 artisans set up along the streets in front of the unique shops and cafes of Historic Downtown Chandler. Free.
  In 2008: First Wednesday of the month

• Farmers Markets
  Vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers, breads, jams, cheeses, juices, local specialty foods and crafts. Several locations.
  In 2008: Various dates in May

• First Friday
  Visit more than 80 downtown Phoenix art galleries, studios and art spaces. Free.
  In 2008: First Friday of the month

• Flashlight Tours
  Nights in the desert are anything but dull. Nighthawks fly, night-blooming flowers open, toads sing and owls watch as you roam the trails of the Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, never knowing what will be around each corner. Wear walking shoes, and bring a flashlight. 7 p.m. Flashlight tours are free with admission, but require reservations. Call 480-941-3510.
  In 2008: Every Thursday and Saturday in May

• Friday Flicks
  The Town of Buckeye offers free movies. Children 9 years and under must be accompanied by an adult for PG rated movies. Children 12 years and under must be accompanied by an adult for PG-13 rated movies. Beverages and snacks are available for purchase. Locations vary. For more information call 623-349-6350.
  In 2008: May 2, 16

• Friday Night Bull Riding
  Rawhide, Wild Horse Pass. 7:30 p.m. and 9 p.m. $6 for adults, $3 for kids ages 3 to 12, under 3 are free. Tickets are good for both shows. Children can sign up for sheep and calf riding for a nominal charge.
  In 2008: May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30

• Gilbert Spring Concerts in the Park
  These free concerts take place at the Freestone Park amphitheater, located by the lake in Freestone Park in Gilbert. Bring a blanket or lawn chair.
  In 2008: May 1

• Glendale Summer Concert Series
  Every Saturday night from 7 p.m. to 9 pm.at the Arrowhead Towne Center Amphitheater in Glendale.
  In 2008: May 24, 31

• Going Downtown
  An all-day event of festivities. During the day, attendees can jump on the Trolley Theater and get wheeled around downtown for free. At sunset, the Valley-wide search for the best karaoke singer ends during the Downtown Idol competition.
  In 2008: May 10

• Jazz in the Garden
  Friday evenings starting at 7 p.m. Enjoy listening to a variety of jazz styles under starry skies on the Garden’s beautiful Ullman Terrace. Gourmet picnic dinners, bar, wine tasting for an additional charge. Desert Botanical Garden. Tickets must be purchased. Ticket price includes admission to the garden.
  In 2008: Every Friday evening in May

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