Los Angeles truly comes alive in May! Sunny skies are more frequent and there is a buzz of excitement from the preview of a coming summer filled with vibrant celebrations and tons of engaging activities.
This month is bursting with opportunities for adventure and cultural enrichment. Whether you’re looking to honor the past with heartfelt Memorial Day commemorations or to experience the colorful revelry of Cinco de Mayo, we’ve got the scoop on the best must-attend events in May.
As the weather gets warmer the list of things to do gets longer and we are here to help you navigate through the extensive lineup of activities and events taking place throughout the city this May. From the iconic traditions to the exciting new additions, get ready to fill your calendar and make lasting memories this month.
Join in the fun and celebrate the season in style — all the fun of Los Angeles in May is waiting for you!
1 – Mother’s Day in LA
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Celebrate Mother’s Day with a day of LA sunshine unforgettable experiences. Tons of great venues and hotels are ready to offer a delightful brunch menu to all the foodie moms in LA.
Our suggestions include Caldo Verde for its wonderful Portuguese inspired menu and elegant atmosphere. And Perch cannot be topped for its enchanting views and decadent menu.
Want even more striking venues with sensational brunch experiences?
For a really beautiful atmosphere for Mom make reservations at Redbird Downtown or the Inn of the Seventh Ray in Topanga. Also we recommend taking mom to enjoy high tea served on the Terrace of Eagles Crest Mansion overlooking the beautiful Oak Glen valley. You can purchase tickets at Los Rios Rancho website. And if Mom loves the Aquarium of the Pacific, then remember their annual Mother’s Day Picnic event.
SPA time please! Many moms would love a day off and a trip to the spa. So celebrate your one and only Madre with a trip to one of the many beautiful Spa venues in Los Angeles offering full menus of services.
Our first suggestion is Den Mother for its beautiful and relaxing atmosphere and their complete menu of “spoil me” services. Take your mom for a massage, plus nails and hair care! Make a reservation at Milk+Honey Spa for you and your mom and have a lovely day of beauty and relaxation.
Lastly we recommend surprising your mom with an at home Hibachi party or a Luxury Picnic.
If one of your mom’s favorite activities is a day at the beach, with a gorgeous picnic setup, then we recommend a luxury picnic service. There are several companies in Los Angeles that will make sure to make this day beautiful with splendorous and fun decor and picnic supplies + delicious bites. Our favorites are lapicnics.com, and santamonicapicnics.com
If mom loves at home celebrations its pretty hard to beat the fun and great food of Let’s Hibachi. With this at home party a professional Hibachi chef comes to you for a fun interactive meal where everyone is involved and having fun!
We love Let’s Hibachi so much that we have a special deal with them. When you reserve online you can use code: LAHacker20 in the Promo Code for 20% off your party! (discount can only be applied after you meet their party minimum)
Happy Mother’s Day Everyone!
Location: various
Pic Credit: @massagemagazine
2 – Memorial Day Activities
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Memorial Day weekend in Los Angeles is a time to remember the fallen heroes who served our country, while also welcoming the unofficial start of summer. This year (2024), the city offers a vibrant mix of commemorative events and festive activities.
Los Angeles Fleet Week (May 22nd-27th) is the crown jewel of Memorial Day weekend. Held at the Port of Los Angeles in sleepy San Pedro, this free event celebrates the seafaring service branches. Expect live music, military demonstrations, dazzling aircraft flyovers, and delicious cook-off competitions featuring Navy, Marine, and Coast Guard chefs.
Memorial Day Fiesta Hermosa. This event by the beach boasts something fun for everyone. Stroll down Pier Avenue and Hermosa Avenue, and check out over 250 vendors showcasing everything from handcrafted jewelry and art to delicious eats and clothing. Live music fills the air throughout the weekend, with stages featuring local bands and crowd-pleasing cover groups.
LA County Fair, Stars, Stripes, and Fun! The LA County Fair is a melting pot of cultures, a perfect reflection of Los Angeles itself. This year’s theme underscores that diversity, showcasing the rich tapestry of music, dance, and cuisine that defines LA. Expect to see everything from traditional American fare like corn dogs and funnel cakes to tacos, red beans and rice, and delectable international treats.
While the Fair runs for 16 days (May 3rd-27th), Memorial Day weekend promises some special highlights including Patriotic Performances, special exhibits dedicated to American history and our heroes, plus a plethora of activities for families involving educational and interactive displays.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @nbcnews
3 – SOAR at South Coast Botanic Garden
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Take a day trip to beautiful Palos Verdes in the South Bay area and visit the South Coast Botanic Garden. Starting May 1st, this botanic garden is inviting all visitors to experience SOAR tropical butterflies exhibit.
Your SOAR adventure begins even before you step inside the butterfly pavilion. The Host and Nectar Garden welcomes you with a stunning display of plant life, showcasing the very flowers and foliage that butterflies depend on for survival. Keep your eyes peeled – you might even spot caterpillars munching on their favorite treats!
Next, you’ll encounter the Emergence Chamber, a fascinating glimpse into the butterfly metamorphosis. Witness the incredible transformation firsthand, as pupae shed their skins and emerge as graceful butterflies. If you have homeschool kids, this field trip is a great addition to your science curriculum.
Finally, the grand finale: the butterfly pavilion. Step inside this airy enclosure and be surrounded by hundreds of dazzling butterflies! From the iconic Blue Morpho with its wings of iridescent blue to a kaleidoscope of other species, prepare to be mesmerized by their beauty.
This year’s SOAR exhibit offers an exciting new feature: the Butterfly Feeding Experience. (Additional fee applies). Dip a special feeder into a delicious nectar solution and watch as butterflies land gently on your finger to take a sip. It’s a truly unforgettable way to connect with these delicate creatures. A great immersive experience for all ages, enjoy everyone.
Location: 26300 Crenshaw Blvd, Palos Verdes Estates, CA 90274
PIC Credit: @macaronikid
4 – Best Fests in May
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Let’s begin our suggestions with Beach Vibes and Legendary Lineups! Don’t miss the return of the popular BeachLife Festival in Redondo Beach. This 3 day fest extravaganza is held right on the shores of Redondo Beach May 3rd-5th. Get ready to soak up the good vibes and witness legendary performances including Sting, ZZ Top, and Courtney Barnett. This event promises a great weekend of music, beach vibes, and good times.
Next on our list is Los Angeles Taste of the Nation. This amazing foodie event invites you to come and try gourmet bites from dozens of talented chefs. Also, try savory spirits prepared by fun and celebrated local mixologists, winemakers, and brewers. Bring the whole family because it’s all for a good cause to raise money towards the problem of childhood hunger. This event is prepared to entertain even the youngest guests with interactive games and children activities.
Next on the list is Scottish Fest! Don’t miss the lively Scottish Fest, back again this year celebrating all things Highland at the Orange County Fair. Expect to be greeted by the unmistakable sounds of bagpipes and the sight of colorful kilts as you enter the dedicated Scottish Fest area. Witness the athletic prowess of strongmen and women competing in traditional heavy games like caber tossing and hammer throws. Cheer on energetic Highland dancers showcasing their intricate footwork and vibrant costumes. Enjoy savory favorites like hearty meat pies and creamy porridge, or indulge in a sweet treat like a classic shortbread cookie. Vendors will also offer an enticing selection of Scottish whiskeys and beers.
More festivals happening this month include The 47th Annual Chili Cook Off, car show, and craft beer festival in Thousand Oaks, Newport Beach Jazz Fest, Tustin Lobsterfest, and the Rose Bowl invites visitors to their Cruel World Fest on May 11th and Just Like Heaven on May 18th.
Location: various
PIC Credit: @Coasttocoastnewspaper
5 – Celebrate 5 de Mayo in LA
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Cinco de Mayo is a vibrant celebration of Mexican heritage, and there are tons of events here in LA to celebrate this holiday! Foodie enthusiasts should make a visit to Paseo de la Plaza on May 5th to immerse in the rich flavors and traditions of the Central Coast at Sabor del Valle Latino Food event. Sabor del Valle brings together the best of the Central Coast’s Latino culinary scene and winemakers. This inaugural event promises a delightful journey for your senses, showcasing the unique blend of Mexican and Californian influences that define the region’s food and wine.
Olé and Brunch! Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with the Grand Opening of Cirque du Brunch: Jungle Hollywood. Get ready for a Cinco de Mayo fiesta unlike any other with the grand opening of Cirque du Brunch. This isn’t your average bottomless mimosa brunch. Cirque du Brunch promises a high-energy, immersive experience that blends delicious food, dazzling acrobatics, and vibrant entertainment into an unforgettable afternoon. All guests must be 21+.
Downtown Downey invites visitors and residents to The Downtown Downey Cinco de Mayo celebration. Perfect for everyone, from families with young children to groups of friends seeking a lively atmosphere. The event kicks off at 5:00 PM and promises a vibrant street fair atmosphere along Downey Avenue. Indulge your taste buds with a delightful array of Mexican cuisine from tacos and sizzling fajitas to refreshing margaritas and authentic Mexican street food. Come hungry and prepare to embark on a culinary journey south of the border. There will be activities for the kids at the Family Fun Zone, plus live music and entertainment.
Last but not least, Celebrate Culture and Community at the 3rd Annual Cinco de Mayo at the Rose Bowl! The 3rd Annual 5 de Mayo at the Rose Bowl promises a fun-filled day for the whole family, with music, sports, art, and delicious food. This free event is a fantastic opportunity to experience the rich tapestry of Latino culture in Los Angeles. Bring your family, friends, and a blanket to spread out on the sprawling Rose Bowl field and soak in the festive atmosphere.
Location: 501 n main st. los angeles ca 90012
PIC Credit: @eventbrite
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