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Summer is almost here, and we’ve got a BIG month of events to help your close out the spring season in the city of angels.
On tap this May in L.A. you’ll find the return of Jazz at LACMA, L.A. TACO’s Taco Madness, Roots & Rails at Union Station, Clockshop’s annual Kite Festival, the Downtown Burbank Summer Arts Festival, Museums of the Arroyo Day, Off the 405 at the Getty, the Beverly Hills Art Show, Netflix is a Joke Fest, and more.
Things To Do in L.A. this May 2026
M = Less than .5 miles from an L.A. Metro Station, FA = Free Admission, TP = Top Pick
Jazz at LACMA (May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29) – FA > The Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s annual Friday Night Jazz series returns on May 1, offering free weekly concerts at Smidt Welcome Plaza. And remember that LACMA is free to visit for L.A. County Residents (with I.D.) on weekdays after 3 p.m. More info here.
Half-O-Ween (May 1-2) – M > We’re halfway to Halloween, so naturally Street Food Cinema thinks it’s the perfect time to host a scary movie night at Heritage Square Museum. Over the first weekend in May, Half-O-Ween invites guests to enjoy graveyard carnival games, tours of historic Victorian homes, food trucks, and a costume contest. It starts on Friday with featured screening of Sinners. Then on Saturday it’s a repeat of the programming, but with Carrie on the movie bill. Doors open for both nights at 6:30 p.m. GA tickets start at $37.36 (including fees). Keep in mind parking is $31.04. We suggest carpooling or taking a ride share. More info here.
Frogtown First Fridays (May 1) – FA > Frogtown First Fridays is back to kick off the month of May. Over a dozen participating venues adjacent to the L.A. River Path will host activations, including galleries, restaurants and shops. This month its all about animals so bring them along for the ride! Guests can see new art exhibits, enjoy free or low-cost art activities, giveaways, DJ’s and live music. Runs 5 to 10 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.
L.A. TACO’s Taco Madness (May 2) – M TP > The 17th edition of LA TACO’s signature taco battle is back and takes over Gloria Molina Grand Park this May with a vendor lineup that includes Taquería Frontera, Tire Shop Taqueria, Evil Cooks, Tacos El Toro, Sonoratown, Borreguitas, Macheen, Tacos Los Cholos, Taco Nazo, Tirzahs, Asadero Chikali, A Tí Restaurant, Tacos Y Birria La Unica, Los Dorados LA, LaSorted’s, Villa’s Tacos #3. Reminder that tickets cost $25 grants entry, with food and drinks available for purchase from vendors once inside. L.A. TACO members get in free. All the vendors keep their earnings. L.A. TACO also doesn’t charge the vendors a fee! This is a true community event. More info here.
The Music Center’s Very Special Arts Festival: Family Day (May 2) – M FA > The Music Center’s Very Special Arts Festival is an annual free, inclusive event celebrating the artistic achievements of students with all abilities. The festival features student and professional performances, visual and performing arts workshops and a student art exhibit created around a theme that is introduced to the students each year. Runs 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. More info here.
Hauser & Wirth Learning Exchange (May 2) – M FA > Join Hauser & Wirth Los Angeles for a gathering dedicated to the intersection of art, mentorship, and social responsibility. This year’s Learning Exchange explores how artists and cultural institutions can lead new educational models to support young creators. The program is inspired by the gallery’s current exhibition, Destiny Is a Rose: The Eileen Harris Norton Collection, which highlights five decades of philanthropy and advocacy in the arts. Free to attend with registration. Runs 11 to 2 p.m. More info here.
Roots & Rails: A Bluegrass Experience at Union Station (May 2) – M FA > Metro Art, in collaboration with The Bluegrass Situation, debuts Roots & Rails, a first-of-its-kind bluegrass concert in the historic Ticket Concourse of Los Angeles Union Station. This open-to-all event brings the soulful sounds of roots music to one of the city’s most iconic architectural landmarks. The evening features a curated lineup of world-class performers in an immersive, community-centered atmosphere. Free to attend. Runs 7 to 10 p.m. More info here.
JACCC’s Kodomo no Hi (Children’s Day) Celebration (May 3) – M FA > Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (JACCC) will host a special Children’s Day celebration in Isamu Noguchi Plaza. Expect performances, food and beverage vendors, activities and a viewing of the koinobori (hope flags) art installation in the Tea Room where children are invited to draw and add their own messages of hope to art work. In addition, the James Irvine Japanese Garden will be open to the public, with optional 10-minute tours provided by the Little Tokyo Historical Society. You can also check out the annual Ikenobo Ikebana Exhibition (on view May 2-3) at the George J. Doizaki Gallery inside the JACCC. More info here.
Netflix is a Joke Fest (May 4-10) -> Netflix Is a Joke Fest returns to Los Angeles for a jam-packed week of comedy featuring 350+ live comedy event at some of the area’s most iconic venues, from the Hollywood Bowl to to the Greek to the Troubadour to the Wiltern and more (there are too many shows to name here!) One tidbit if you’re looking for scaled down, lower cost option: There will be free NIAJF associated comedy shows at Nicos Wines in Atwater Village the entire week of the festival. Get the full lineup and ticket information here.
Autry After Hours: May Music Nights & Cowboy Cocktails (May 7 & 21) -> Enjoy live music on the plaza, sip on cocktails and partake in some games. Some evenings even feature western line or swing dancing! Tickets cost $20 and also include after-hours museum access. More info here.
L.A. County Fair (May 7-31) -> The L.A. County Fair returns to Pomona for an enormous assortment of activities, musical performances, food and beverage offerings, and more. After the opening day, the fair continues Thursday to Sunday through the rest of the month. Single day, advance tickets start at $18-$25 for adults. More info here.
Summer of Salsa (May 8) – M FA > LA Plaza de Cultura y Artes kicks off their 2026 season of Summer of Salsa this May with a performance by Son Mayor, one of Los Angeles’ most beloved ensembles, known for their high-energy blend of classic and contemporary Cuban salsa. Whether you are a seasoned salsero or a complete beginner, the evening is designed for community dancing under the stars in the heart of downtown. Free to attend. Runs 6 to 10 p.m. More info here.
Ivy Station Night Market: Prom Rewind (May 8) – M FA > Dust off your favorite outfit and head to Culver City for the Ivy Station Night Market: Prom Rewind. This themed evening transforms the open-air plaza into a nostalgic dance floor, where you can relive your high school era without the formalwear pressure. Expect 30+ makers and artisan vendors plus DJ-spun throwback tunes from the 80s. Free to attend. Runs 5 to 10 p.m. More info here.
Clockshop’s Kite Festival (May 9) – M FA TP > Clockshop’s annual Kite Festival is back at Los Angeles State Historic Park this May offering a vibrant celebration of the wind, the sky, and community resilience. Organized under the theme “Take a Breath,” this year’s festival serves as both a family-friendly arts event and a symbolic reclamation of public space. Expect a sky filled with color, art installations that explore communication, and a chance to fly your own handcrafted creations. It runs from 2 to 6 p.m. Free to attend, though donations are encouraged! More info here.
MAK Center Architecture Tour Spring 2026 (May 9) -> The MAK Center for Art and Architecture’s major spring fundraiser opens the doors to five remarkable private residences designed by R.M. Schindler, Raphael Soriano, and Lloyd Wright. This year’s selection spans the 1920s through 1950s, highlighting each architect’s innovative techniques across Lloyd Wright’s Studio (1927), Soriano’s Polito House (1940), and Schindler’s Wolff House (1938), Van Dekker House (1940), and Tucker House (1950). Tour tickets are $225. Cap the day with a ticketed reception ($75) at the Schindler House featuring aperitivo and DJ sets by DJ Cometa. More info here.
Honor Your Feelings Fest (May 10) -> Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month at the fourth annual Honor Your Feelings Fest. Presented by the Asian Mental Health Project and Take Action LA 2026, this one-day festival is dedicated to community care and mental health conversations within the Pan-Asian community. The event transforms Isamu Noguchi Plaza into a supportive space for movement, creativity, and connection. Runs noon to 6 p.m. More info here.
Pickwick Market (May 16) -> Discover a curated collection of designer fashion at the Pickwick Vintage Show, returning to its monthly residency at ROW DTLA. This outdoor market features over 40 local vendors showcasing a wide assortment of vintage clothing, jewelry, and accessories from all eras. Whether you are a dedicated collector or simply looking for unique design inspiration, the show offers a specialized shopping experience in the heart of the Arts District. Ticket are $10. Runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. More info here.
MOCA Annual Plant Sale (May 16) – FA > Explore the intersection of horticulture and art at The Plant Sale, a traveling collaborative event organized by artist Alika Cooper returning to MOCA this May. This gathering brings together a massive roster of artists and growers from across the Los Angeles basin to offer unique plants, handmade ceramics, and botanical goods. Whether you are a seasoned collector of rare specimens or a new plant parent, the event provides a vibrant community atmosphere in the heart of Little Tokyo. Free to attend. Runs 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.. More info here.
Market Place@PAM: Creativity and Tradition (May 16) – FA > Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month at the USC Pacific Asia Museum with Market Place@PAM, a curated artisanal market. This event highlights the artistry and entrepreneurial spirit of immigrant communities, offering a space to shop handmade goods while hearing the personal stories behind the crafts. Your visit supports local makers and fosters cultural connections across the Los Angeles basin. Free to attend with RSVP. Runs 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. More info here.
Great Big Family Fun Day (May 16-17) -> There’s a kid-friendly festival taking over the grounds of The Autry Museum in Griffith Park. Families can enjoy a day of storytelling, live musical performances, and family activities. Tickets range between $10-$35. More info here.
Artazan (May 16-17) -> Artazan comes to the Pasadena Convention Center for a two-day event exploring all things hand crafted. Over 200 exhibitors are participating from jewelry to woodwork, ceramics, clothing and food. Tickets cost $8. More info here.
Beverly Hills Art Show (May 16-17) – FA > Over 250 artists are expected to participate in the Beverly Hills Art Show this year. Taking place in Beverly Gardens Park the event is free to attend and includes a wine and beer garden, demonstrating artists, children’s activities, gourmet food trucks and several community exhibits. More info here.
EEEEEATSCON Los Angeles (May 16-17) -> Ditch the tiny samples and join the Infatuation for EEEEEATSCON, a premier two-day food festival designed for those who actually want a full meal. Hosted at the massive Barker Hangar, this event features over 20 acclaimed restaurants from Los Angeles and across the country, allowing you to try out-of-state favorites without a plane ticket. Beyond the food, the festival offers live music, panels with restaurant critics, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Both days run noon to 6 p.m. GA tickets start $25. More info here.
AAPI LA Market (May 17) – FA > The fifth annual AAPI LA Market is back at Smorgasburg LA with a premier showcase for the city’s AAPI community, featuring a curated selection of baked goods, savory street food, and unique merchandise from local chefs and creatives. Runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.
Taste of South Pasadena (May 19) – M > Sample food along Mission and Fair Oaks and enjoy live music in a family-friendly atmosphere during Taste of Pasadena. Presented by the Rotary Club of South Pasadena the event features over 30 food and drink stops including an additional VIP section with 15+ wine, beer and spirits participants. Adults GA tickets start at $50. Runs 5 to 8 p.m. More info here.
LA Opera: An Ode to Black Opera – M FA > LA Opera Connects returns to the California African American Museum (CAAM) for a soulful performance celebrating the rich history and contributions of Black composers. This intimate concert features a talented ensemble of LA Opera artists, offering a program that bridges classical tradition with contemporary Black artistry. The progam begins at 7 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.
Spring Exhibitions Opening at The Skirball (beginning May 20) -> – FA TP > This spring, the Skirball Cultural Center will have a pair of new exhibitions on offer: Inventing America: The Comic Book Revolution; Outsiders, Outcasts, Rebels + Weirdos: 1976–86; and Robert Russell and Lisa Edelstein: A Palace in Time. All three will debut in the day time and extend into an evening affair where the public can enjoy after-hours access to the galleries plus sips and snacks for purchase, and artists and curators on hand. Best part? Both opening night and opening day are free to attend with registration. More info here.
WeHo Pride: Harvey Milk Day (May 22) – FA > Celebrate the legacy of LGBTQ+ pioneers as the City of West Hollywood officially observes Harvey Milk Day. This year’s centerpiece event is the José Sarria Drag Pageant, named in honor of the first openly gay person to run for public office in the U.S. and the founder of the Imperial Court System. The pageant brings together local performers for a high-energy competition that honors the intersection of drag artistry and political activism. Runs 6 to 8 p.m. Free to attend. More info here.
Latin Sounds at LACMA (starting May 23) – M FA > Latin Sounds return to LACMA for 2026, bringing a series of Saturday evening, outdoor concerts at Hancock Park (adjacent to the museum campus) with world-renowned artists performing everything from Indigenous music to sounds from Argentina, Brazil, Cuba, Mexico, Peru, and Los Angeles. Free to attend. Runs 5 to 7 p.m. May kicks off with performances by Son Mayor (May 23) and SitaraSon (May 30). More info here. More info here.
Fiesta Hermosa (May 23-25) – FA > Memorial Day weekend in Hermosa Beach means one thing: Fiesta Hermosa! This May’s three-day festival features a marketplace with over 250 vendors, a wine garden, food fair, live music and a carnival. Admission is free. More info here.
Topanga Days (May 23-25) – > The annual fundraiser festival for the Topanga Community Center returns over Memorial Day weekend for three days of games, food and live music, capped by a Memorial Day parade. Adult single day tickets for non-members start at $63.60 per person. More info here.
MAINopoly (May 25) -> Board game meets food fest at the 11th annual MAINopoly, taking place on Main Street in Santa Monica. Advance GA tickets start at $39.31 per adult, which get you an allotment of credits (MAINopoloy dollars) you use to pick up bites at restaurants up and down the block. Each spot you visit helps fill up your game board which offers a shot at prizes. More info here.
MTRNM Presents: ANKHOÏ at Natural History Museum (May 29) -> Experience a “night at the museum” like no other as MTRNM returns for its third edition at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. This late-night event transforms the iconic museum halls into a temporary dance floor, featuring a lineup of world-class electronic music producers. Dance among the exhibits as the historic architecture and prehistoric displays are illuminated for an immersive, after-hours party. Runs 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tickets start at $53.79 More info here.
Barnsdall Friday Wine Nights (starting May 29) – M > Friday night wine tasting events are back at the Barnsdall Art Park West Lawn starting May 29. Now in its 17th season tickets cost $45 and get you a flight of wines curated by Silverlake Wine, plus access to a rotation of food trucks, all supported by tunes from local DJs and sweet sunset views of the Hollywood Sign and Griffith Park Observatory. The series continues every Friday through throughout the summer, and all proceeds benefit the Barnsdall Art Foundation. Ticketes range from $35-$90. Events start at 5:30 p.m. More info here.
MONSTERPALOOZA – Pasadena – 2026 (May 29-31) – M > Dive into the art of monsters and movie magic as MONSTERPALOOZA stomps into the Pasadena Convention Center, taking over all 100,000 square feet of the venue for its annual three-day event highlighting all things special effects, makeup, and creature design. Whether you’re a horror aficionado or a collector of unique toys and art, it’s the premier place to meet the masterminds behind your favorite cinematic nightmares. Expect 450+ exhibitors and dozens of celebrity guests. Tickets start at $43.91 for single day admission. More info here
Off the 405: aja monet – FA > The Getty’s annual Off the 405 concert series kicks off in May with a performance by the surrealist blues poet and storyteller aja monet. Known for her Grammy-nominated debut, monet blends jazz rhythms with urgent, lyrical precision. This performance arrives just days after her Carnegie Hall debut and features new music co-produced by Me’shell Ndegeocello, reflecting on contemporary Los Angeles through an Afropunk-tinged lens. Event opens at 6 p.m. Tickets are free, but there is a fee for parking. More info here.
Downtown Burbank Summer Arts Festival (May 30-31) – FA > The Downtown Burbank Arts Festival is back this May with a massive vendor marketplace curated by Jackalope Arts. The two-day event features 170+ indie sellers offering curated goods include original fashion and jewelry design, paper goods, innovative home decor and housewares, art, photography, food, and more. Free to attend. Runs 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. both days. More info here.
Museums of the Arroyo Day (May 31) – M FA > Five museums and historic homes along the Arroyo Seco offer free admission for the annual Museums of The Arroyo Day. Participants include The Gamble House, Heritage Square, the L.A. Police Museum, the Lummis Home, and the Pasadena Museum of History. Runs noon to 4 p.m. More info here.
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