May is a big month for events in the Southwest, where film screenings stretch across border walls, rodeo arenas roar to life and desert fairgrounds transform into all-night dance parties. If you’re looking for things to do in the Southwest this May, here are a few events worth building a road trip around.
Visit Tucson
Nogales International Film Festival | May 13–17 | Nogales, AZ
Storytelling quite literally crosses border at the Nogales International Film Festival. Held in Nogales, Arizona, the festival is known for its striking film projections cast onto the border wall of US and Mexico itself, creating a shared viewing experience between both countries. Independent films, documentaries and international cinema take center stage throughout the week, many highlighting borderland culture, identity and human connection. There will also be filmmaker discussions, art exhibits and community gatherings that make this one of the Southwest’s most distinctive cultural events.
Learn more at soazfilm.org/nogaiff.
Visit Greater Palm Springs
Joshua Tree Music Festival
Joshua Tree Music Festival | May 14–17 | Joshua Tree, CA
In the Mojave Desert, the Joshua Tree Music Festival happened twice a year. Held beneath starry skies outside Joshua Tree, the long-running festival is community-oriented and laid back. The crowds aren’t overwhelming, and you can gather with friends to dance under the stars, while and even meet the artists. Expect eclectic performances ranging from indie and funk to electronic and world music, alongside yoga classes, dance workshops and late-night jam sessions.
Learn more at joshuatreemusicfestival.com.
West Coast Conference Baseball Tournament | May 20–23 | Scottsdale, AZ
Those who love college baseball won’t want to miss out on this Scottsdale tournament. It’s a postseason paradise here, where teams battle it out for championship in a high-energy atmosphere packed with school pride, rising talent and intense competition. Between innings, fans can soak up Arizona sunshine, grab ballpark bites and experience the electric atmosphere that comes with playoff baseball.
Learn more at wccsports.com/feature/baseballtournament.
Visit Albuquerque
2026 New Mexico Wine Festival | May 23–25 | Albuquerque, NM
New Mexico’s wine scene often flies under the radar, but this festival proves the region has plenty to pour. The New Mexico Wine Festival gathers wineries from across the state for a weekend of tastings, live music and local food in Albuquerque. Sample over 200 wines, from bold reds to crisp desert-grown whites, and explore artisan vendors and more.
Learn more at newmexicowinefestivalalbuquerque.holdmyticket.com.
Overland Expo | May 15–17 | Flagstaff, AZ
Adventure lovers flock to Flagstaff each year for Overland Expo West, one of the most anticipated outdoor travel events in the country. Massive off-road rigs, rugged camping setups and adventure motorcycles fill the grounds for attendees to explore, get inspired and maybe even swap travel stories. Browse the latest overlanding equipment, attend survival and backcountry workshops and watch vehicle demonstrations designed for serious explorers.
Learn more at overlandexpo.com/west.
Electric Daisy Carnival | May 15–17 | Las Vegas, NV
When the sun sets over Las Vegas, the Electric Daisy Carnival takes over with neon lights, massive stages and nonstop music stretching into sunrise. It’s one of the world’s largest electronic dance music festivals, and it includes art installations, carnival rides and internationally known DJs.
Learn more at lasvegas.electricdaisycarnival.com.
Jonathan Phillips, Visit Denver
Outside Days | May 29–31 | Denver, CO
In Denver, Outside Days celebrates the culture of adventure that defines the Mountain West. Hosted by Outside, the multi-day event brings together outdoor enthusiasts for film screenings, live music, athlete appearances and gear showcases. Whether you’re into trail running, climbing, camping or simply daydreaming about your next escape into the mountains, the festival delivers plenty of inspiration for life outside.
Learn more at outsidedays.outsideonline.com.
Catalina Wine Mixer | May 29–30 | Catalina Island
Yes, the Catalina Wine Mixer is real—and it has evolved into one of Southern California’s most delightfully over-the-top waterfront parties. Hosted at Descanso Beach Club on Catalina Island, the weekend combines wine tastings, beachside concerts and sunset parties overlooking the Pacific. Inspired by the fictional event made famous in Step Brothers, the gathering now draws visitors for live music, dancing and pours from wineries across the West Coast.
Learn more at visitcatalinaisland.com/events.