We’re in the heart of spring, which means it’s the optimal weather to spend time exploring the great outdoors before the relentless summer heat is upon us.
From frolicking in flowers to sky-high concerts, here are some of the most wonderful things to fill your calendar with this May 2026 in Los Angeles!
Written by Sarah Nash and Jamie Ferrell
Be the hero — join Superman and Krypto in an immersive, interactive adventure opening April 18. If you’re looking for a larger-than-life outing near Los Angeles this May, Superman Experience: Defenders Unite opens April 18th at Warner Bros. Studio in Burbank, CA. The immersive attraction uses motion detection, 3D video, physical props, puzzles, and audio-animatronics to let visitors play as heroes alongside Superman and Krypto.
Nature has blessed Southern California with an incredible wildflower superbloom. Catch the fleeting floral display across SoCal before spring vanishes and we move into the summer heat. Don’t worry, there are still some picturesque pockets of vivid landscapes to wander through with fresh floral scents. Find a list of the best places to see flower fields and wildflowers around L.A. here!
As Cinco de Mayo approaches, it’s essential to remember its true significance. Often mistaken for Mexican Independence Day, this holiday actually commemorates Mexico’s historic victory in the 1862 Battle of Puebla. While the modern-day celebration has evolved considerably, especially in predominantly American contexts — Los Angeles remains a hub for fantastic events that pay homage to Mexican heritage. Here are the best Cinco de Mayo events in L.A.!
Tomorrowland is bringing its underground-focused CORE experience to Los Angeles for the very first time this weekend. The house and techno-focused concept will take over L.A. with a two-day experience that’s already shaping up to be one of the most exciting dance events of the year. From last-minute tickets to the stacked lineup, here’s everything to know about this major new electronic music event heading to L.A.
This dreamy Candlelight concert series is ever-evolving and never ceases to dazzle audiences. This spring, you’ll find incredible performances happening at stunning locations around the city. Listen to talented musicians performing curated pieces across a range of genres, from the Beatles to Bad Bunny.
L.A., get ready to « Enter the Realm » as Gorgon City take over the Reframe Studios Outdoors! Known for chart-topping beats that blend UK garage, Chicago house and pop, the UK duo has sold over 10 million singles, and played at Printworks, Amnesia and Glastonbury. A stellar lineup will be joining them at this open-air session in L.A., including Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs (TEED), M-High, Linska, and Jackie Hollander. Tickets are flying for this electric outdoor session, so grab yours here before they’re gone!
Mother’s Day is a time to celebrate the incredible women who shape our lives. From sisters and aunts to lifelong friends, there’s always someone special to honor. This year, it falls on Sunday, May 10, 2026, and we’ve got the perfect plans to help make the day unforgettable. Whether you’re thinking brunch, a concert, or simply some quality time, here are some great ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in Los Angeles.
Afternoon Concerts in the Dome return to the iconic Mount Wilson Observatory this May. There’s nothing quite like hearing music in the company of stars. Find out more about the unforgettable Mount Wilson Observatory concerts here.
It’s officially the season to stop and smell the roses! So if you’re a bloom-seeker with an insatiable desire to frolic amongst colorful flowers, then head to one of these 8 idyllic gardens filled with the dreamy scent of roses.
From The Devil Wears Prada 2 to Obsession, May movie releases are all the buzz. Personally, we can’t think of a better place to soak up the action than in a comfy reclining seat with a large popcorn and a crisp Coke. Check out the latest screenings here.
As a thriving international hub with top culture and art institutions, Angelenos are absolutely spoiled. While there are tons of world-class museums in Los Angeles to lose yourself in all year round, there are a few that stand out as must-sees. Here’s our guide to the best museum installations and art exhibits in Los Angeles that you simply cannot miss.
Inspired by Charles Perrault’s tale and brought to life by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, The Sleeping Beauty is a timeless ballet exploring the battle between good and evil through music and dance. The Ballet of Lights show in Los Angeles offers a shortened, visually enhanced version featuring illuminated costumes and a cast of ballerinas. Performed at the Historic Glendale Theater, this 60-minute production makes the classic story more accessible while preserving its magical themes of love and triumph over adversity.
In L.A. brunch is a weekend ritual that has evolved into a myriad of creative dining experiences, and spring demands that they are enjoyed outdoors. Whether you prefer your huevos ranchos and Bloody Mary’s with the ocean crashing on the shores below or insane views of L.A. parks, you’ll find something to enjoy on our list of spots. Find the full list of brunch spots here!
The month of May brings a flurry of activity to The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. From painting and writing workshops to Tai Chi, there are so many activities on offer that everyone is guaranteed to find their passion. You can find the full schedule here.
“Dining in the Dark” at City Club Los Angeles offers a unique blindfolded dining experience where guests enjoy a secret three-course meal guided only by taste, smell, and texture. With options like meat, seafood, or vegan menus, the 90-minute event creates an intimate, business-casual atmosphere perfect for a fun and adventurous night out. By removing sight, the experience heightens the senses and turns an ordinary dinner into an interactive and memorable culinary journey.
You can experience nature up close, and learn about butterflies up close right in their natural habitat. From the Natural History Museum to South Coast Botanic Garden, there are so many inspiring spaces in L.A. to view these special creatures. Learn more about these butterfly pavilions here.
The Jazz Room offers an immersive live music experience that celebrates the soulful heritage of jazz and blues in Los Angeles. The series features professional musicians performing everything from New Orleans-style ragtime to tributes for icons like Frank Sinatra and Louis Armstrong, all within an intimate, street-style bar atmosphere.
Satisfy all your sweet strawberry cravings at the California Strawberry Festival
Who doesn’t love strawberries? Now, you can celebrate all things related to sweet red fruit at the 37th annual California Strawberry Festival. Indulge in all things strawberry from chocolate dipped to beer infused. Expect booths, live music, contests, fair rides, and so much more!
Check out a family-focused music festival with the Great Big Family Play Day at The Autry
Called “Coachella for families,” the 11th Annual Great Big Family Play Day at The Autry in Griffith Park is back this May! One of the only music festival geared towards kids, Great Big Family Play Day lets kids dance, sing, and play all day! There’s gifting stations, gear giveaways, character meet & greets, and fun photo opportunities across the three-acre festival. You even get FREE access to the Autry Museum all weekend long! See the full event schedule and performer lineup here.
If you’re looking for a culture-forward stop to round out your May in L.A., The Autry Museum showcases an expansive collection of art, artifacts, and stories, from Native American heritage to historic firearms. Engage with dynamic events and family-friendly activities, making it a perfect cultural outing for all ages. Autry members also enjoy free admission and discounts on events and programs.
Yosemite’s waterfalls are at their most spectacular due to spring snowmelt, making late spring the ideal time to visit. April through June, especially May, offer the best views of the full cascades amid blooming wildflowers and pleasant weather. To manage the crowds, Yosemite has implemented a 2025 reservation system requiring visitors to book a vehicle pass on certain days, and you’ll need one if you’re visiting on Memorial Day weekend.
Jazz at LACMA is back for the 2025 season. There are free outdoor concerts every Friday at 6 p.m. from May through November. These performances feature some of L.A.’s finest jazz musicians and are held at the Smidt Welcome Plaza behind the iconic Urban Light installation. The concerts are open to the public with no tickets or reservations required, and seating is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, and Los Angeles is celebrating with a variety of events that highlight the rich cultural contributions of the AAPI community. These events provide a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the diverse AAPI cultures that enrich Los Angeles every day. Get all the information here!
Sing along to the ultimate 80s movie soundtrack! For a fun May night out in Los Angeles, Teen Beat Live is an immersive show at CineVita that brings iconic 80s movie soundtracks to life with singers, musicians, dancers, and cinematic staging. A waitlist is open and tickets have just dropped for upcoming performances.
The LA County Fair is back at the Pomona Fairplex with the theme, “Play Your Way.” Open Thursdays through Sundays and Memorial Day, the fair offers a vibrant mix of immersive art exhibits, carnival rides, live music, and diverse food options. Some of the highlights include hands-on art activities, a retro roller-skating rink, and a concert series. It’s a perfect outing for families, foodies, and anyone looking to enjoy a classic SoCal tradition.
This two-day mini film festival celebrating Black documentary filmmakers returns to Los Angeles this weekend only. DAY OF BLACK DOCS is “a celebration of documentaries that center the Black experience, both behind and in front of the camera.” Guests can enjoy Black documentaries, film screenings, panel discussions, and Q&As with filmmakers. You can get more information here!
The Catalina Museum for Art & History is proudly showcasing the 39th Annual Avalon Silent Film Showcase, one of the world’s longest-standing tributes to silent cinema. This year’s event offers rare film screenings, live music events, and expert commentary.
Cinespia’s beloved outdoor cinema series returns to Hollywood Forever Cemetery for its 25th season. This iconic Los Angeles tradition offers movie enthusiasts the chance to watch classic films under the stars amidst the historic cemetery grounds. Attendees can enjoy lawn-style seating, bring their own picnics (including beer and wine), and partake in live DJ sets and free photo booths.
Sing along with Puck Bunnies: A Heated Rivalry Drag Musical Parody
We’re all hooked on Heated Rivalry, but six episodes aren’t enough. Puck Bunnies is a comedy drag musical where Shane and Ilya (played by drag performers) pine, sing, and stir chaos alongside iconic characters and two witty narrators. Packed with absurd humor, musical numbers, and expanded scenes, it’s a bold, hilarious tribute that takes the story way further. Learn more here!
All Secret Club members get 20% off Planters and Pipe Party workshops at POT Studio LA until Sept 30, 2026. Get more information on how to join Secret Club here!
Experience live jousts, historic crafts, and family fun at the Renaissance Pleasure Faire this spring. For a May outing that feels like a full-on time warp, the Original Renaissance Pleasure Faire returns to the Irwindale Event Center April 4–May 17, 2026, with artisans, costumed performers, jousting, archery, rides, and a petting zoo. Weekends only, 10 AM–6 PM, with tickets available online or at the gate.
Treat her to one of the best new releases in theaters. If youre looking for a cozy May plan in Los Angeles, treat your mom to the latest theatrical releases, where top cinemas offer premieres, comfortable seating, and classic movie snacks like popcorn.
