
We’re in the heart of spring, which means it’s the optimal weather to spend as much 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 in Los Angeles!
1. Celebrate the women in your life on Mother’s Day

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 11, 2025, and we’ve got the perfect plans to help make the day unforgettable. Whether you’re thinking brunch, a Candlelight Concert, or simply some quality time, here are some great ways to celebrate Mother’s Day in Los Angeles.
2. Experience an enchanting Candlelight Concert at an exquisite L.A. venue
Experience An Enchanting Candlelight Concert At Exquisite L.A. Venue. 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, bathed in flickering candlelight. From Prince to Hans Zimmer, you’ll get to listen to top talent performing curated pieces across a range of genres. Get your tickets to a Candlelight Concert here!
Below are just a few of the concerts you can choose from:
- May 9, 2025: Candlelight Downtown LA: A Tribute to Taylor Swift
- May 9, 2025: Candlelight Downtown LA: A Tribute to Whitney Houston
- May 10, 2025: Candlelight Downtown LA: Tribute to Lauryn Hill
- May 10, 2025: Candlelight Downtown LA: Tribute to Nirvana
- May 16, 2025: Candlelight Glendale: The Best of Hans Zimmer
- May 16, 2025: Candlelight Glendale: Tribute to The Beatles
- May 22, 2025: Candlelight Long Beach: Featuring Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and More
- May 22, 2025: Candlelight Long Beach: Tribute to Bad Bunny
3. Go on a hunt for wildflowers at these stunning locations in SoCal

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!
4. Fill your calendar with these Cinco de Mayo plans all around Los Angeles
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.!
📆 When: May 5, 2025
5. Catch a cosmic concert 5,700ft above L.A. in Mount Wilson’s Iconic Dome

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. This year’s series begins on May 25. Find out more about the unforgettable Mount Wilson Observatory concerts here.
📍 Where: Mount Wilson Observatory
📆 When: May 25, 2025
6. Snag a limited-edition Bobblehead at Dodgers Heritage Nights!

As the Los Angeles Dodgers prepare to kick off the 2025 season as the defending World Series champions, their bobblehead calendar and special Heritage Nights are a statement. Catching a game should be on your list of things to do this month. We consider spending the day at the Dodger Stadium with a Dodger Dog in one hand and a michelada in the other a mandatory L.A. activity. Find the full schedule of special events here.
7. Lose yourself in a labyrinth of roses at one of these three gorgeous gardens

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.
8. Expand your mind at these incredible L.A. museum exhibits

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.
9. Enjoy brunch served with a side of gorgeous scenery at one of these L.A. spots

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!
10. Enjoy fun and educational community events at The Huntington all month long

The month of May brings a flurry of activity to The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. There are so many activities on offer that everyone is guaranteed to find their passion. You can find the full schedule here. Here are just a few of their events on offer:
- Plein Air Watercolor Series
- Meet a Gardener: Cultivating Roses
- Reflective Writing and Intuitive Collage
- Culinary Workshop: Celebrating Ancestral Foodways
- Astronomy Lecture: The Messy Eating Habits of Black Holes
- Fiber Arts Month: Drop-In Crafts
📍 Where: The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens
📆 When: Multiple dates in May
11. Wander through a pavilion of butterflies at one of these 7 magical locations

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.
12. Catch a flick from the 1970s at this special L.A. cinema

Buckle up and get ready to travel back in time, this local theater is bringing special screenings of ‘70s classics you won’t want to miss. To celebrate this beloved time in cinema, Netflix is hosting a special screening series titled “1975: Fifty Is the New Hollywood” at the city’s iconic and legendary Egyptian Theatre. Some of the films you’ll get to enjoy include Barry Lyndon, Jaws, Chinatown and Dog Day Afternoon, and The Godfather Part II. Screenings will take place throughout the month of May. Get all the info here!
📍 Where: Egyptian Theatre (6712 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90028)
📆 When: Multiple dates in May
13. 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! More info here.
🗓️ When: May 17-18, 2025
📍 Location: Ventura County Fairgrounds, 10 W Harbor Blvd in Ventura
14. Transport yourself to classic Hollywood at the new Warner Bros. Studio TCM Tour

A visit to the iconic Warner Bros., movie studio, is a must for any Angelino, tourist or movie buff. The city not only hosts that studio but also many other big names like Universal, and Paramount. All of them offer a behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood magic. You can explore movie sets, soundstages, and even meet the stars of your favorite films. These tours let you step into the heart of the entertainment industry and experience the world where blockbuster movies are made.
📍Location: 3400 Warner Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505
15. Check out a family-focused music festival with the Great Big Family Play Day at The Autry

Called “Coachella for families,” the 10th 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.
🗓️ When: May 3 -4, 2025
📍Location: The Autry in Griffith Park across from the LA Zoo
16. Dive into Spanish culture at this innovative flamenco show in L.A. for one night only!

A stunning flamenco show is coming back to Los Angeles, but this time it’s even bigger and better. This internationally-acclaimed production is by Royal Opera of Madrid, one of the most notable artistic institutions in Spain. Authentic Flamenco returns but with new artists and music but the same intensity and heart. This limited experience from Spain will be unforgettable, so be sure to get tickets before they’re gone!
📍 Where: 8440 Wilshire Blvd, Beverly Hills, CA 90211
📆 When: May 10, 2025
17. Wander through 20 acres of blooming lavender at 123 Farm

Celebrate the blooming of 123 Farm’s 20-acre lavender fields starting this May. Visitors can experience the fields illuminated by 100,000 lights during evening hours, creating a stunning backdrop for sunset photos and nightly live music performances.
📍 Where: 123 Farm, 10600 Highland Springs Ave, Beaumont, CA 92223
📆 When: May 2 – July 20, 2025
18. Clear your mind at a groovy wellness campout
Listen – Disco in the Desert is a 3 day and 2 night camping and wellness retreat with wellness activations and workshops during the day and a dance party under the stars at night! The weekend is designed to allow space for creative expression, authentic deep connections, dance, celebration, and personal growth.
📍 Where: Desert Hot Springs, CA
📆 When: May 2, 3, and 4
19. Have family-friendly fun at Street Food Cinema

Returning to picturesque venues such as The Autry Museum and LA State Historic Park, Street Food Cinema (SFC) returns with another season of beloved films and entertainment suitable for all ages. This picnic-style series encourages guests to arrive early, settle on the grass, and bask in the sunshine. As dusk falls, the movies take center stage! With a variety of films and pre-movie activities, there’s a screening to delight every audience member.
20. Mixology meets storytelling at dreamlike cocktail lounge & distillery The Obscure

Sip your way through an fairy tale world full of glowing waterfalls, soothing candlelight, and enchanted ambience at The Obscure. Located in the Arts District, this bar’s charming concept pairs top-shelf alcohol with a fantastical setting. Click here to learn more!
📍 Where: The Obscure
📆 When: Multiple dates in May
21. Take a weekend trip to see Yosemite’s waterfalls at their best

Yosemite’s waterfalls are currently 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.
🌐 Learn more about Yosemite reservations here.
22. Free Jazz Nights Are Back At LACMA

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.
📍 Where: LACMA, 5905 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90036
📆 When: Fridays at 6 p.m.
💲Price: Free
23. Celebrate AAPI Month In Los Angeles

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!
24. Gather up the whole family for fun at the L.A. County Fair

The LA County Fair is back at the Pomona Fairplex from May 2 to May 26, 2025. The fair is celebrating creativity with this year’s theme, “Art Unleashed.” 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 featuring artists like The O’Jays, Chris Young, and Cheap Trick. It’s a perfect outing for families, foodies, and anyone looking to enjoy a classic SoCal tradition.
📆 When: May 2 – 26, 2025
25. Head to the movies for a new must-see film

From the period vampire horror hit Sinnersto the extra-terrestrial English adaptation of Watch the Skies, the latest movie features are all the buzz right now. 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.
26. Plan the ultimate National Park getaway

Whoever says you have to compromise comfort to enjoy the great outdoors clearly hasn’t heard of AutoCamp. Whether you want to experience the magic of Yosemite’s iconic waterfalls, the Sonoma redwoods, or Joshua Tree’s dreamy desert, the design-forward destinations allow you to reconnect with nature from the comfort of upscale Airstreams, tents, and cabins. Take this as your sign to book that trip and check out all the AutoCamp escapes here!
27. Celebrate Black documentary filmmakers at this mini film festival

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!
🗓️ When: May 16 – 17, 2025
📍 Where: American Film Institute (2021 North Western Avenue Los Angeles, CA)
28. Take an hour ferry ride to the longest-running silent film festival in the world

The Catalina Museum for Art & History is proudly showcasing the 38th Annual Avalon Silent Film Showcase. This showcase is one of the world’s longest-standing tributes to silent cinema. This year’s event happens over two days, Friday, May 16 and Saturday, May 17, 2025 and offers rare film screenings, live music events, and expert commentary in two iconic Avalon venues. On Friday, Creature from the Black Lagoonwill be shown, and on Saturday, you can see The Phantom of the Opera. Get all the information here!
🗓️ When: May 16-17, 2025
📍 Where:
- Catalina Museum for Art & History’s Ackerman Family Amphitheater (217 Metropole Ave, Avalon, CA 90704)
- Avalon Casino Theatre (1 Casino Way, Casino Building, Avalon, CA 90704)
29. Dr.Jart+ Korean Skin Mart Flagship Pop-Up

Step into the Dr.Jart+ Korean Skin Mart, where K-beauty meets the vibe of a convenience store in Seoul. Play games, win prizes, and score free samples. Plus, enjoy tasty Korean snacks and get a personalized skincare routine.
📍 Where: The Americana at Brand (889 Americana Way Glendale, CA)
📆 When: May 9 – 26 from 10 am to 9 pm
30. FX’s Adults x “Suds and Sounds” event at a laundromat

“Suds and Sounds” is about remixing the routine. This cool laundry pop-up is to celebrate the release of FX’s new show, Adults. It’s all happening at The Laundry Room in Culver City. There will be musical performances, DJs, coffee, cocktails, bodega snacks, tarot readers—and yes, free laundry too. Plus, guests can expect vending machines with Adults-branded ‘laundry lifesaver’ giveaways.
📆 When: Tuesday, May 20th from 9 am – 5 pm and 7 – 10 pm
31. Rock out with Pinktastic Plastixx at The Whisky a GoGo
Pinktastic Plastixx is opening for the iconic 1980s band, Missing Persons, on May 30 at The Whisky a GoGo. Pinktastic Plastixx is an all girl band hailing from Los Angeles who perform original high energy Pop Punk. Come see why they were listed as the Top 10 to Watch for 2025 in BILLBOARD & SPIN Magazine! You can get more information here.
📍 Where: The Whisky a GoGo (8901 W. Sunset Blvd. West Hollywood, CA)
📆 When: Friday, May, 30, 2025 at 10 pm
32. Cheer on the Champions League Final Match at 1212 Santa Monica

Join 1212 Santa Monica for the ultimate match day experience as they bring the excitement of the UEFA Champions League Finals to L.A. On May 31st, catch every goal, pass, and penalty shootout, surrounded by fans, food, and football vibes. Plus, they’re serving up $19 Bottomless Brunch in addition to the full 1212 brunch menu. The match kicks off at noon, but come early to grab the best seats. You can reserve a table here.
📍 Where: 1212 3rd Street Promenade, Santa Monica, CA
📆 When: May 31, 2025
33. Cinespia’s outdoor cinema series returns to the Hollywood Forever Cemetery this month

Cinespia’s beloved outdoor cinema series is returning to Hollywood Forever Cemetery for its 24th season, commencing on May 24, 2025. 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. The summer lineup features special tributes and anniversaries, including a David Lynch homage with a screening of Blue Velvet, and 30th-anniversary showings of Clueless and Showgirls. Get more information here!
📆 When: Starting Saturday, May 24, 2025
📍 Where: Hollywood Forever Cemetery (6000 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA)
Originally written by Sophie Len.