As the vibrant jacarandas begin to blanket the streets of Orange County in purple and the early summer sun starts to warm our coastal shores, May in the OC marks a season of outdoor festivals and sophisticated community celebration.
From the timeless charm of the Strawberry Festival in Garden Grove to the prestigious sounds of the Newport Beach Jazz Festival, this month offers an unparalleled look into the coastal lifestyle that makes Orange County one of the most desirable places to call home.
Whether you are a long-time resident or looking to plant roots in one of our beachside enclaves, these curated events highlight the best of our community this May.
Cinco de Mayo Celebrations
Cinco De Mayo Fiesta in San Clemente
Max Berg Plaza Park, San Clemente Tuesday, May 5, 2026
Every year, the “Spanish Village by the Sea” celebrates with a city festival that truly brings the community together. The program features live entertainment like Mariachi Los Patrillos and Ballet Folklorico, alongside a beer garden and gourmet food trucks serving authentic beverages and desserts. It’s a classic way to enjoy the heritage and spirit of South County.
Cinco de Mayo Festival at Bowers Museum
Bowers Museum, Santa Ana Sunday, May 3, 2026, 11:00 AM – 3:30 PM
Part of the museum’s free family festival series, this event offers a sophisticated cultural experience in the beautiful Key Courtyard. Expect live performances, art-making stations for the kids, and complimentary treats. It’s a perfect blend of education and celebration in the heart of Santa Ana.
Newport Beach Cinco De Mayo Bar Crawl
Baja Sharkeez & Various Locations, Balboa Peninsula Saturday, May 2, 2026, 5:00 PM
For those looking for a high-energy social scene, the Balboa Peninsula hosts a massive celebratory crawl. Starting at local favorites like Baja Sharkeez, it’s a fun way to explore the beachside nightlife while enjoying holiday drink specials and a festive crowd.
Mother’s Day Traditions
Anaheim Mother’s Day Celebration Market
Anaheim (Various Locations) Friday, May 8 – Sunday, May 10, 2026
This festive spring shopping experience is designed to make Mother’s Day weekend extra special. Browse curated selections of handcrafted jewelry, boutique apparel, and home decor from local artisans. With themed photo backdrops and specialty food offerings, it’s a great spot to find a unique gift or spend a relaxed afternoon with Mom.
Mother’s Day Whale Watching Cruises
Newport Landing, Newport Beach Sunday, May 10, 2026
Treat Mom to a relaxing 2.5-hour coastal cruise with incredible views of the OC shoreline. These special holiday tours often include “MOMosas” or champagne and offer the chance to see giant blue whales or dolphins. It’s a quintessential Newport Beach experience that combines luxury with the natural beauty of the Pacific.
Mother’s Day Brunch at Tanaka Farms
Tanaka Farms, Irvine Sunday, May 10, 2026
For a more rustic, family-friendly celebration, Tanaka Farms offers a “Breakfast at the Farm” experience. Enjoy a made-to-order meal followed by tractor rides around the 30-acre property. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the fresh air and the farm-to-table lifestyle Irvine is known for.
Family Festivals & Local Traditions
Garden Grove Strawberry Festival
Village Green Park, Garden Grove Friday, May 22 – Monday, May 25, 2026
A Memorial Day weekend staple since 1958, the Strawberry Festival is one of the largest community events in the nation. This year’s celebration features a massive parade, celebrity guests, carnival rides, and—of course—plenty of strawberry shortcake. It’s a wonderful way to experience the small-town heart that still beats strong in the middle of Orange County.
Anaheim Children’s Festival
Pearson Park, Anaheim Saturday, May 16, 2026, 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
The Anaheim Children’s Festival offers families and people of all ages the opportunity to enjoy exploring and making art together. This event includes over 50 booths with art projects, musical and performing groups, and plenty of fun for kids and families. Presented by the Muzeo Museum, it is a local favorite for fostering creativity in the next generation.
Scottish Fest
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa Saturday, May 23 – Sunday, May 24, 2026
Experience the heritage of the Highlands right here in Costa Mesa. This two-day festival features traditional bagpiping competitions, Highland dancing, and the heavy athletics of the Highland Games. With authentic Scottish food and a massive “Clan Row” where you can trace your ancestry, it’s a unique cultural immersion for the whole family.
Discovery Day at the Farm
Centennial Farm, Costa Mesa Tuesday, May 5, 2026, 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Perfect for families with young children, Discovery Day at Centennial Farm allows guests to get up close and personal with the agricultural roots of the OC. You can see livestock, explore the vegetable gardens, and learn about the importance of farming in a hands-on environment. It’s a peaceful, educational morning on a working three-acre farm.
Premier Culinary & Lifestyle Events
626 Night Market – OC
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa Friday, May 29 – Sunday, May 31, 2026, 3:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Inspired by the famous open-air nighttime markets of Asia, the 626 Night Market brings hundreds of food and craft vendors together for a massive three-day party. From giant squid and ramen burgers to aesthetic boba and unique lifestyle goods, this is the ultimate destination for foodies and those looking for a high-energy social scene.
SOS Wild & Crazy Taco Night
Plaza Pacifica at OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa Thursday, May 7, 2026, 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM
This isn’t your average taco Tuesday. Top local chefs compete to create the most innovative and “wild” tacos you’ve ever tasted, all to support Share Our Selves (SOS), a nonprofit providing social services to the local community. It’s a night of great food for an even greater cause.
Gem Faire
Costa Mesa Building, OC Fair & Event Center Friday, May 8 – Sunday, May 10, 2026
For those with a taste for the finer things, the Gem Faire is one of the largest jewelry and bead shows in the country. Whether you’re a professional jeweler or just looking for a unique Mother’s Day gift, you’ll find everything from precious gemstones and fine jewelry to fossils and crystals from around the world.
Arts, Culture & Entertainment
Newport Beach Jazz Festival
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach Friday, May 29 – Sunday, May 31, 2026
This is arguably the most sophisticated music event of the season. Set against the beautiful backdrop of the Back Bay, the festival features world-class jazz, R&B, and soul artists. The 2026 lineup includes legends like The Isley Brothers and Rick Braun, offering an elegant weekend of music, wine, and ocean breezes.
Shelley Conducts America at 250
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, Costa Mesa Thursday, May 28 – Saturday, May 30, 2026, 8:00 PM
In celebration of the nation’s upcoming 250th anniversary, the Pacific Symphony presents a masterful program of American classics. Under the baton of Alexander Shelley, this concert captures the spirit of the American landscape through powerful symphonic works. It’s a must-attend for patrons looking for world-class acoustics and emotional performances.
JazzFest: Fullerton Jazz Orchestra with Clay Jenkins
The Muckenthaler Cultural Center, Fullerton Thursday, May 14, 2026, 7:30 PM
The Muck’s outdoor amphitheater is the perfect place to spend a warm May evening. The Fullerton Jazz Orchestra kicks off the spring season with a performance featuring renowned trumpeter Clay Jenkins. Bring a picnic and enjoy high-level big band jazz in a historic garden setting.
Leopold & The Magic Flute: Opera for Kids!
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, Costa Mesa Saturday, May 30, 2026, 10:00 AM & 11:30 AM
Introduce the younger generation to the wonder of Mozart. This condensed, family-friendly production of The Magic Flute is designed to be engaging and accessible for children. It’s a brilliant way to spend a morning at the Segerstrom Center, sparking an early appreciation for the performing arts.
OC Eid Festival OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa Saturday, May 16, 2026
A celebration of culture and community, the OC Eid Festival marks the end of Ramadan with a day of joy. Featuring a diverse array of international food vendors, a massive bazaar, and children’s activities, this event showcases the vibrant multicultural fabric of modern Orange County.
Active Living & Community Spirit
Hoag OC Marathon Running Festival
Start: Newport Beach / Finish: Costa Mesa Saturday, May 2 – Sunday, May 3, 2026
The Hoag OC Marathon is more than just a race; it’s a weekend-long festival. The route takes runners through the scenic streets of Newport Beach and Santa Ana before finishing with a massive celebration at the OC Fairgrounds. Whether you’re running the full 26.2 miles or enjoying the 5K “party run,” it’s an incredible display of community health and spirit.
Night Nation Run OC
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa Saturday, May 9, 2026
Billed as the world’s first “Running Music Festival,” this event is for those who like to stay active while having a blast. It’s a 5K fun run through a course filled with light shows and electronic dance music, culminating in a main stage after-party featuring top DJs. It’s a high-energy way to kick off the warmer May nights.
Costa Mesa Speedway: Harley Night Blowout
Action Sports Arena, Costa Mesa Saturday, May 9, 2026
For a complete change of pace, head to the Speedway for Harley Night. This adrenaline-pumping event features street-legal Harleys racing on a dirt track, along with professional speedway racing. It’s a classic OC tradition that brings together motorcycle enthusiasts for a night of speed and spectacle.
Memorial Day
35th Annual Memorial Day Program
El Toro Memorial Park, Lake Forest Monday, May 25, 2026, 11:00 AM
For those looking to honor the true meaning of the holiday, this free program features a keynote speaker, a wreath presentation by local city representatives, and an Honor Guard firing salute. The Master Chorale of Saddleback Valley provides the music, creating a moving tribute to those who served.
La Palma Memorial Day Ceremony
La Palma Civic Center, La Palma Monday, May 25, 2026, 9:00 AM
The City of La Palma hosts a dedicated ceremony in front of the Civic Center to honor military service and sacrifice. It’s a quiet, respectful gathering that highlights the tight-knit community spirit found in the northern enclaves of Orange County.
Scottish Fest
OC Fair & Event Center, Costa Mesa Saturday, May 23 – Sunday, May 24, 2026
Coinciding with Memorial Day weekend, this festival brings the heritage of the Highlands to Costa Mesa. From heavy athletics like the caber toss to bagpiping competitions, it’s a high-energy cultural event that has become a favorite local tradition.
As we move through the beautiful month of May, we hope you find time to enjoy these wonderful community events. The energy in Orange County this time of year is truly special, reflecting the warmth and sophistication of our neighborhoods.
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