If variety is the spice of life, it seems the Southwest has grabbed the whole spice rack this month. From high-fashion runway shows and art-filled weekends to Celtic concerts, desert birdwatching and Route 66 nostalgia, May is shaping up to be one wildly eclectic ride. Whether you’re craving culture, carbs or a good excuse for a road trip, these upcoming events offer plenty of reasons to fill the calendar.
Governor's Art Show | April 25 - June 6 | Denver, CO
Art lovers can spend weeks wandering through one of the largest fine art shows showcasing Colorado artists. Expect everything from sweeping Western landscapes to contemporary pieces that demand a second look. The Opening Night Gala takes place April 24, and the exhibit will run through June.
Learn more at governorsartshow.org.
Route 66 Fun Run | May 1 | Flagstaff, AZ
Lace up your sneakers and hit the Mother Road during this nostalgic run through Flagstaff. The event blends Route 66 charm with cool mountain air and scenic views, making it a fun excuse to experience one of America’s most iconic highways in a whole new way.
Learn more at historic66az.com/fun-run.
Rio Grande Celtic Music Festival | May 2-3 | Albuquerque, NM
Bagpipes, fiddles and lively folk performances take over Albuquerque during this energetic, 38th annual celebration of Celtic culture. Expect live music, with social media star Ally the Piper headlining, dancing and enough toe-tapping tunes to make you briefly consider buying a kilt.
Learn more at celtfestabq.com.
Flamenco in the Garden | May 2-3 | Tucson, AZ
Fiery performances and dramatic music come alive the first weekend of May in an open-air desert garden setting during this unforgettable evening of flamenco dance. Romantic, powerful and deeply expressive, it’s the kind of event that practically demands a late-night tapas stop afterward.
Learn more at tohonochul.org/flamenco.
World Migratory Bird Day Celebration | May 9-10 | Las Vegas, NV
Bird nerds, this one’s for you. Celebrate the migrating birds passing through the Mojave Desert with guided walks, educational programs and wildlife viewing opportunities near the iconic Red Rock Canyon.
Learn more at redrockcanyonlv.org/events.
Jon Burkholt, Visit Salt Lake
Salt Lake Art Show | May 14-17 | Salt Lake City, UT
Artists from across the country gather for this multi-day showcase featuring fine art, handmade works and creative exhibitions. The weekend kicks off with a VIP Preview Evening, then runs through Sunday for the public to browse, collect or simply soak up a little inspiration.
Learn more at saltlakeartshow.com.
Halie Sutton, Experience Scottsdale
Arizona Restaurant Week | May 15-24 | Phoenix, AZ
Come hungry. Restaurants across the Valley will offer special prix-fixe menus showcasing some of Arizona’s best chefs and flavors. It’s essentially a citywide excuse to stop cooking for a week. The full list of participating restaurants will be available starting May 1.
Learn more at arizonarestaurantweek.com.
California Strawberry Festival | May 16-17 | Oxnard, CA
This beloved California festival serves up strawberry-themed everything, from desserts to drinks, alongside live entertainment and family-friendly fun. And, yes, the always-anticipated strawberry nachos will be there.
Learn more at castrawberryfestival.org