It seems the saying about April showers bringing May flowers holds true, as this month is packed with events designed to entertain residents and visitors alike.
This year, while the Preakness Stakes will not be held in Baltimore, fans of horse racing can still partake in the excitement at Laurel.
Additionally, May brings back a variety of enjoyable activities, ranging from cultural celebrations that highlight the Asian diaspora to events encouraging residents to engage in their passions—both artistic and adventurous.
Here’s a comprehensive list of events taking place this May:
The Heidi Chronicles, running through Sunday, May 3, Vagabond Players. This powerful play spans the 1960s to the 1980s, following the journey of feminist art historian Heidi Holland as she engages with the women’s movement and her own ambitions. The narrative remains pertinent in a world still grappling with issues of gender and work-life balance.
Kimberly Akimbo, running through Sunday, May 3, Hippodrome Theatre. Teenage protagonist Kimberly Levaco confronts a mysterious condition that speeds up her aging process, making her look like an elderly woman while navigating high school life. This Tony Award-winning musical from 2023 is both humorous and deeply moving.
Holes, running through Sunday, May 10, Baltimore Center Stage. Fans of the Louis Sachar novel and the Disney film can now witness the beloved characters of Stanley Yelnats and Camp Green Lake come to life in this engaging theatrical adaptation, centered around themes of friendship, adventure, and justice.
Miss Holmes Returns, running through Sunday, May 17, Fells Point Corner Theatre. In this sequel, the original cast returns with Sharon Maguire as Miss Sherlock Holmes and Emma Grace Dunbar as Dr. Dorothy Watson. The plot reimagines Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s Victorian tales, featuring Holmes and Watson on a mission to assist an activist accused of murder.
You Can’t Take It With You, running through Sunday, May 17, Spotlighters Theater. Experience the quirky world of Alice Sycamore as she introduces her eccentric family to her wealthy fiancé Tony Kirby’s proper family.
Mary Ellen Mark: Ward 81, ongoing through May 22, Albin O. Kuhn Library Gallery at UMBC. The exhibition features photographs, newly discovered audio recordings, and rare archival materials, providing an intimate look at an all-female high-security psychiatric facility.
Nature Deficit Disorder, running through Sunday, May 31, Baltimore Museum of Art. Rachel Lee Hovnanian’s immersive installation invites guests to step into a simulated forest setting and engage with nature. More details can be found in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.
Wizard of Oz, running through Sunday, June 7, Toby’s Dinner Theater. Following the recent acclaim of the “Wicked” adaptations, Toby’s presents L. Frank Baum’s cherished tale. Join Dorothy and her dog Toto as they are whisked away to the enchanting Land of Oz, navigating new friendships and dangers along the yellow brick road.
Seven Stars Between Two Skies, ongoing through June 2026, Lord Baltimore Hotel. This art exhibition features a new collection from Baltimore-born artist Mark Anthony West Jr.. You can find more information in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.
Medieval Mindscapes, ongoing through August 23, Walters Art Museum. This exhibition features 22 rare illustrated prayer books from the Middle Ages, carefully curated from the Walters’ extensive collection. More can be read in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.
Fratino and Matisse: To See This Light Again, ongoing through September 6, Baltimore Museum of Art. This exhibit showcases comparative works by Louis Fratino and Henri Matisse, featuring figure studies, interiors, and still-lifes.
Week of May 1 through May 3
Flower Mart, Friday, May 1, and Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Mount Vernon Place. Join in the celebration of spring with this local tradition, hosting over 75 vendors, live musical performances on two stages, and complimentary workshops for attendees.
Asia North Festival, Friday, May 1, through Sunday, May 31, Charles North/Station North Arts District. This festival returns for its eighth annual celebration of APIMEDA cultures, showcasing a unique exhibition, community programs, artist discussions, and neighborhood events. More details can be found in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.
The Prada Premiere, Friday, May 1, 9 p.m., The Charles Theater. Experience a Hollywood-style premiere featuring a red carpet atmosphere, complete with paparazzi-style photography, live interviews, and VIP amenities.
Towsontown Festival, Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3, Towson Historic Courthouse. Check out over 200 vendors offering crafts, jewelry, art, food, and more. The festival will also feature live music, carnival rides, and many more engaging activities.
Kinetic Sculpture Race, Saturday, May 2, 8 a.m., American Visionary Arts Museum (AVAM). The 26th Annual Kinetic Sculpture Race returns rain or shine! This unique event showcases Baltimore’s creativity and ingenuity, where victory is humorously defined by receiving the title of Grand Mediocre Champion instead.
Family Fun Day: Day Out With Thomas™, Saturday, May 2, and Sunday, May 3, B&O Railroad Museum. Enjoy a real train ride with Thomas, photo opportunities, and visit Music Corner, which features lawn games, activities, and music-inspired entertainment.
IMET Open House, Saturday, May 2, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., The Institute for Marine and Environmental Technology. Enjoy a free day filled with scientific activities suitable for all ages and connect with scientists actively engaged in marine research in the Chesapeake Bay and surrounding waters.
Mendelssohn & Needleman, Saturday, May 2, 8 p.m., Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Principal Oboist Katherine Needleman showcases Martinů’s Oboe Concerto with incredible expressiveness, while Kristiina Poska conducts two admired orchestral pieces: Mendelssohn’s Symphony No. 3 and Bartók’s Romanian Folk Dances.
MURDER BRUNCH: A Law & Order: SIU Special Episode, Sunday, May 3, 12 p.m. to 2 p.m., Guilford Hall Brewery. Enjoy an entertaining brunch where an improvised version of Law & Order takes center stage, paired with delicious food and signature brunch drinks. Audience suggestions will steer the unscripted mystery. Read more about MidAtlantic Improv and their unique brunch experiences in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.
Breakfast with the Goats, Sunday, May 3, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Maryland Zoo. Enjoy breakfast alongside the zoo’s friendly goats for a delightful morning experience.
Hops 4 Health, Sunday, May 3, 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., Max’s Taphouse. Sample exclusive specialty beers from local breweries during this fundraising event supporting the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Metropolitan Baltimore.
Ani DiFranco, Tuesday, May 5, 8 p.m., Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. The Grammy-winning singer-songwriter visits Baltimore on her Spirit of Love tour. Additional details can be found in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.
Week of May 4 through May 10
Fells Point Flower Crawl, Thursday, May 7, 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., Fells Point Main Street. Searching for a Mother’s Day gift? Explore local shops in Fells Point and collect flowers at participating businesses, leaving with a colorful bouquet.
Broadway Standing Ovations, Friday, May 8 through Sunday, May 10, Music Center at Strathmore and Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Jack Everly and his outstanding guests will take the audience on an uplifting journey through modern Broadway, featuring stirring songs from productions such as West Side Story, Waitress, Moulin Rouge, The Greatest Showman, and Wicked.
“Tease” Opening Reception, Friday, May 8, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., Baltimore Jewelry Center. This solo exhibition by craft artist and educator J Taran Diamond marks the end of her teaching residency at the Baltimore Jewelry Center and will be on display until June 19, 2026.
VinylCon! Baltimore, Friday, May 8, and Saturday, May 9, UNION Craft Brewing. After its successful debut in October, VinylCon returns, featuring vinyl records from vendors traveling from all over the region. This two-day event will also include other media and music memorabilia.
Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, Friday, May 8, through Sunday, May 17, Dundalk Community Theatre, CCBC Dundalk. This musical documents Carole King’s inspiring journey from teenage songwriter to acclaimed performer beloved worldwide.
Paw Patrol Live!, Saturday, May 9, various showtimes, Hippodrome Theatre. Join your favorite Paw Patrol characters as they embark on a thrilling adventure to rescue Adventure City from the devious scientist Victoria Vance.
Mother’s Day at the Zoo, Saturday, May 9, and Sunday, May 10, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Maryland Zoo. Celebrate your mom with a trip to the zoo, featuring an inflatable obstacle course, bounce house, crafts, activities, food vendors, and educational animal encounters.
Steam Show, Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Fire Museum of Maryland. Experience real steam engines in action, take a ride on a hose wagon, and participate in interactive games at this free annual event.
5th Annual Public Works Celebration & Big Truck Day, Saturday, May 9, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Downtown Baltimore | Eastern Avenue Pump Station | Harbor East. Explore the workings of Public Works, climb aboard large trucks, and enjoy displays with family-friendly activities and fun.
Remfest, Saturday, May 9, 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., Remington Avenue from 27th to 29th streets. If you’re a fan of the Remington area or just enjoy a good community festival, come out for a day filled with local vendors, live music, and delicious food.
The Young Playwrights Festival (YPF), Saturday, May 9, 12 p.m., Baltimore Center Stage. Join Baltimore Center Stage as they celebrate this year’s winning playwrights with a community festival following the performance.
Life Review: The Hospice Musical, Saturday, May 9, 6:30 p.m., Arellano Theater, Johns Hopkins University Homewood Campus. This one-night concert and live album recording reflects experiences between a former chaplain and his hospice patients, accompanied by musicians from Peabody Institute. More information can be found in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.
Week of May 11 through May 17
OrchKids Spring Celebration Concert, Wednesday, May 13, 6 p.m., Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Musicians from kindergarten to grade 12, representing over 70 schools in Baltimore, will perform in a variety of large ensemble groups.
Lintu Conducts Sibelius, Thursday, May 14 through Sunday, May 17, Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall and Strathmore Music Center. Finnish conductor Hannu Lintu leads an orchestral concert featuring Sibelius’ Night Ride and Sunrise and Symphony No. 7, alongside acclaimed pianist Francesco Piemontesi performing Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4.
Black-Eyed Susan, Friday, May 15, Laurel Park. Due to renovations at Pimlico Race Course, the Black-Eyed Susan Stakes will also take place at Laurel this year, alongside the Preakness Stakes.
Fifth Annual Doomsday Poe Readathon, Saturday, May 15, 12 p.m. through Sunday, May 16, 12 p.m., In the Dark Circus Arts, Baltimore. Join a 24-hour livestream featuring numerous Baltimore personalities reading classics from Edgar Allan Poe, with free Poe-themed activities and arts available for attendees. Donations help fund all operations for The National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre.
Night Circus on Doomsday, Saturday, May 15, 5 p.m., In the Dark Circus Arts, Baltimore. Enjoy an evening filled with magic, mind reading, and cirque, coinciding with the Fifth Annual Doomsday Poe Readathon, with ticket sales benefitting The National Edgar Allan Poe Theatre.
The Magic School Bus Lost in the Solar System, Friday, May 15 through Sunday, May 17, Baltimore Center Stage. Embark on an exciting journey aboard the Magic School Bus in this new musical based on the cherished Scholastic book series.
Music City Bluegrass & Roots Festival, Saturday, May 16, 12 p.m. to 10 p.m., The Vortex at CAA Park. Enjoy a day filled with bluegrass and roots music, food, and community activities. This festival will feature performances on two stages, showcasing local talent.
Preakness Stakes, Saturday, May 16, Laurel Park. This year marks the 151st running of the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the Triple Crown, offering a schedule filled with races throughout the day.
Zoo Celebrates AAPI Heritage Month, Saturday, May 16, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Maryland Zoo. Celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with the zoo, featuring activities like Chinese lion dancing, Hula performances, and keeper chats with animal ambassadors.
Baltimore Vintage Expo, Sunday, May 17, ticketed entry from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., free entry from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., UNION Craft Brewing. Celebrate the festival’s 10th anniversary by browsing vintage clothing, collectibles, jewelry, and more from vendors across Maryland, D.C., Virginia, and Pennsylvania.
Arbutus Arts Festival, Sunday, May 17, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., 5407 East Drive. Explore handmade crafts, indulge in delicious food and beverages, enjoy live music, and let kids have fun in the Children’s Corner at the 53rd annual Arbutus Arts Festival.
Filipino Festival, Sunday, May 17, 10 a.m. Power Plant Live! Join in a celebration of Filipino heritage featuring traditional food, songs, cultural performances, and various vendors.
Baltimore Birth Festival, Sunday, May 17, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Patterson Park. This event focuses on information about pregnancy, postpartum care, and parenting. Attendees can interact with vendors, care providers, and local businesses, with opportunities to win baby and parenting items through raffles.
An Evening with David Byrne, Sunday, May 17, and Monday, May 18, 8 p.m. both nights, Hippodrome Theatre. Renowned as the lead singer and primary songwriter of the Talking Heads, David Byrne will bring his tour “Who is the Sky” to Baltimore.
Emma, Sunday, May 17, through Sunday, June 14, Everyman Theatre. This adaptation of Jane Austen’s “Emma,” by Kate Hamill, offers a contemporary twist on the classic tale of love and matchmaking, filled with humor and surprise.
Week of May 18 through May 24
The Physics of Baseball, Monday, May 18, 6 p.m., Section 771. Are you a fan of the Orioles or another team? Professor Scott Paulson from James Madison University will break down the physics behind baseball, discussing various aspects of the game from pitching to batting and fielding.
Free Admission for Matisse in Vence, Thursday, May 21, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Baltimore Museum of Art. Take advantage of free entry to the “Matisse in Vence” exhibition at the Baltimore Museum of Art for one day only. Additional details are available in this Baltimore Fishbowl article.
Patterson Park Wine at Sunset, Thursday, May 21, 6 p.m. to 9 p.m., Patterson Park Observatory. Celebrate 20 years of this wine tasting event featuring samplings from local restaurants and live music by Rob Fahey.
In the Stacks: Queer Archives, Thursday, May 21, 7:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m., Johns Hopkins University George Peabody Library. Join us for an evening of exploration into queer and trans identities over time, with performances by flutist Willie Santiago, pianist Ben Shaver, and drag performers.
Maryland Deathfest XXI, Thursday, May 21, through Sunday, May 24, various locations. Metal fans can rejoice as Maryland Deathfest returns for its 21st year with four days of electrifying performances across multiple venues.
GameCon, Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, 401 E. 30th St. This is the third annual tabletop game convention held in Baltimore, showcasing tabletop role-playing games and board games, featuring appearances by game creators including Levi Combs of Planet X Games.
Brew at the Zoo, Saturday, May 23, and Sunday, May 24, from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. each day, Maryland Zoo. Join us over the Memorial Day weekend to sample over 80 varieties of beer, wine, cider, and seltzer. The event will feature live music, food vendors, trivia contests, and engaging animal activities.
SOWEBO Arts Festival, Sunday, May 24, 12 p.m. to 8 p.m., 1100 Hollins St. Artists and music fans are invited to celebrate creativity at the 43rd annual SOWEBO Arts Festival in Southwest Baltimore.
Week of May 25 through May 31
Heyward Conducts Enigma Variations, Thursday, May 25 through Saturday, May 27, Music Center at Strathmore and Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Under the direction of Music Director Jonathon Heyward, the orchestra will explore the British musical landscape, featuring works by Elgar, Smyth, and Coleridge-Taylor.
Suffs, Tuesday, May 26, through Sunday, May 31, Hippodrome Theatre. This Tony Award-winning musical tells the compelling story of the American suffragette movement and its fight for women’s voting rights.
John Mulaney, Thursday, May 28, and Friday, May 29, 7:30 p.m. both nights, Lyric Baltimore. Don’t miss the opportunity to catch the Emmy-award-winning comedian during his Mister Whatever Tour in Baltimore.
Music Under the Dome: Fleetwood Mac, Friday, May 29, with showtimes at 8 p.m. and 9 p.m., Maryland Science Center. Celebrate Fleetwood Mac as songs from their catalog are paired with stunning visuals in the planetarium.
The Divine Sister, Friday, May 29, through Sunday, June 21, Vagabond Players. This satirical comedy revolves around the challenges faced by a Mother Superior wrestling with divine visions, scandal, and secrets, utilizing humor and sharp wit.
Rathyatra & Festival of India, Saturday, May 30, 10 a.m. onwards, Mckeldin Square at the Inner Harbor. The Festival of India welcomes all to partake in a complimentary feast, chariot parade (Rathyatra), and celebrate with live performances, dance, and cultural exhibits.
Zoo Snooze, Saturday, May 30, from 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 a.m. Sunday, May 31, Maryland Zoo. Experience a unique overnight adventure at the zoo, including dinner, breakfast, fun activities, games, and admission to the zoo on Sunday.
Breakfast with the Chimps, Sunday, May 31, 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Maryland Zoo. Enjoy breakfast in the company of the zoo’s playful chimpanzees.
The Baltimore Chamber Orchestra presents The Best of Baltimore, Sunday, May 31, 7:30 p.m., Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall. Experience a concert highlighting Baltimore’s newest and most celebrated orchestral composers, including Frank Zappa, Karina Ingram, Mason Bates, and Ludwig van Beethoven.
