As May approaches, the Greater Houston area is gearing up for an exciting month filled with a plethora of festivals and events celebrating everything from music and culture to food and family fun.
With the heat of summer beginning to settle in, these outdoor gatherings provide a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the vibrant community spirit from various locales, including Galveston Island, The Woodlands, West Houston, Pearland, Sugar Land, and Bolivar Peninsula.
Kicking off the month is the 5th Annual La Izquierda Surf & Music Festival at Beach Central, taking place on Friday, May 2, and Saturday, May 3, in Galveston. Known as Izzy Fest, this celebration of art, music, and surf culture features an exciting lineup of performances from local bands such as Deltaphonic and Galvezton. Tickets start at $25 and times vary.
Commemorate Cinco de Mayo from Friday, May 2, to Monday, May 5, with a series of festivities across Greater Houston, free shows, parades, street fairs, and more, showcasing the rich Mexican and Chicano culture. The celebrations promise various locations, pricing, and times, inviting everyone to partake.
On Saturday, May 3, fans of horse racing can enjoy Kentucky Derby Day celebrations at various venues throughout Houston, featuring themed parties, pop-ups, and dinners as spectators toast to the 151st running of this iconic race. Locations and times can be found through local listings.
The 6th Annual Flamingo Fest Golf Cart Parade & Pub Crawl in Downtown Galveston also occurs on Saturday, May 3. Families can enjoy a free viewing of the creative parade showcasing golf carts painted in pink, while the pub crawl afterward costs $15. The upbeat atmosphere runs from noon to 6 PM.
Star Wars enthusiasts will find themselves in good company on Saturday and Sunday, May 3 and 4, during events celebrating Star Wars Day. Known for the longstanding catchphrase “May the fourth be with you,” the city buzzes with themed events, offering fans a chance to gather and celebrate their favorite franchise. Pricing and timings vary.
For car lovers, the 29th Annual Keels & Wheels Concours D’Elegance at Lakewood Yacht Club takes place over the weekend of May 3 and 4. This prestigious event is the largest classic car and antique boat show in the United States, showcasing an impressive range of vintage vehicles along with live music and food for sale. Admission is priced at $30, and those 12 and under can attend for free.
Following that weekend is the Sugar Land Jazz Festival at Crown Festival Park on Friday, May 9, and Saturday, May 10. Jazz aficionados can revel in performances from renowned artists like Brian Culbertson and Sheila E., with ticket prices starting at $44 for an unforgettable two-night experience from 3 PM to 10:30 PM each evening.
Mark your calendars for the 40th Annual Texas Crab Festival at Swedes Park in Crystal Beach, running from Friday, May 9, to Sunday, May 11. This family-friendly event features delectable crab dishes, live music, carnival rides, wiener dog races, and more. Entry is set at $25, with timings varying throughout the weekend.
On Saturday, May 10, the Mediterranean Festival hosted by St. Michael Antiochian Orthodox Christian Church in Beaumont welcomes all for a day of cultural celebration. This free event boasts Mediterranean food, music, dancing, and a shopping bazaar, ensuring a delightful experience from 11 AM to 7 PM.
The 2nd Annual Galveston Island Hot Sauce Fest takes place on Saturday, May 10, at Daiquiri Time Out, inviting all to sample award-winning hot sauces from various vendors while enjoying live music and engaging in fun events like a pepper-eating contest. Entry is free, and festivities run from noon to 6 PM.
For craft beer lovers, the Arts & Drafts Festival at Saint Arnold Brewing Company occurs on Saturday, May 10. This celebration, free to attend, features a vibrant mix of local artisans, live music, and, of course, an assortment of craft beers, welcoming visitors from 4 PM to 9 PM.
Honor motherhood over the weekend of Saturday, May 10, and Sunday, May 11, with various Mother’s Day events taking place across Greater Houston. From special outdoor markets to classes, the region provides a multitude of options to treat the beloved moms in the community. Pricing and specific times of events will vary.
The 26th Annual Houston Greek Fest at St. Basil Greek Orthodox Church runs from Thursday, May 15, to Saturday, May 17. This beloved tradition invites guests to indulge in delicious Greek cuisine and pastries while enjoying traditional dancing and a marketplace. Admission is free with canned good donations or $10. The event is free for ages 10 and under.
Following that, the 2nd Annual Pasadena Strawberry Festival at Pasadena Fairgrounds takes place from Thursday, May 15, through Sunday, May 18. Families can expect a fun-filled weekend of barbecue, carnival rides, and even mutton busting at this vibrant festival, where entry is set at $15 and free for those 5 and under.
On Saturday, May 17, iFest USA 2025 will take over Discovery Green. This free international festival celebrates diverse foods and cultures from around the world, featuring live entertainment and cultural booths that promote peace, love, and friendship from 3:30 PM to 9 PM.
For those interested in a blend of science and socializing, the Pint of Science Festival at True Anomaly Brewing occurs from Monday, May 19, to Wednesday, May 21. This unique event allows participants to engage with scientists discussing various thought-provoking topics. Evening sessions are just $2 each and run from 7 PM to 9:30 PM.
Music fans should not miss Buzzfest 2025 at Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion on Saturday, May 24. Headlined by acts like Chevelle and Marilyn Manson, this alternative rock festival guarantees an energetic atmosphere with tickets starting at $29, kicking off at 1 PM.
The 2025 Pearland Wine Festival takes place on Saturday, May 24, at Pearland Town Center. Wine lovers can indulge in unlimited tastings from top-tier brands, live music, and a local vendor market featuring gourmet pairings. Tickets for this event are priced at $60 and run from 4 PM to 9 PM.
Lastly, culminate the month with the 19th Annual Frida Festival on Saturday, May 31, at Discovery Green. Moving from its original East End location, this beloved event celebrates Frida Kahlo with cultural performances, vendors, and a vibrant community atmosphere from 11 AM to 7 PM.
Don’t miss out on these exciting festivals and events this May in Greater Houston! Experience the unique offerings that celebrate the culture, music, and community spirit of this vibrant area.
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