The Best SoCal Events Happening This May

Published on May 3, 2024
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May is in full bloom, and so are the fun events! The best part about living in Southern California is that no matter where you live, there is always a fun event happening just around the corner. Here are all the great activities happening this May that you will not want to miss. 

Star Wars Day

When: May 4 | 2 PM to 4 PM

Where: Potoki Center in Mission Viejo

May the Fourth be with you! Celebrate all things Star Wars with this free city event. Meet your favorite characters for a photo op with the 501st Legion, learn how to play the popular tabletop game Star Wars Legion and join in on a fun space-themed painting activity.

 

Cinco De Mayo 

When: May 4 | 2 PM – 6 PM

Where: Max Berg Plaza Park in San Clemente

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo this Saturday in San Clemente! Dance along to live musical performances by Mariachi Nuevo Jalisciense, Ballet Folklorico De Las Palmas, Groupo Dilema and more. Taste some amazing food with a variety of food trucks and a beer garden. Don’t forget to explore the plaza filled with vendors, crafts and games. Wristbands are required before the event, which can either be purchased online or at the event.

 

AVP Huntington Beach Open 

When: May 17 – May 19 | 8 AM – 5 PM

Where: Huntington Beach

Calling all volleyball enthusiasts! The Association of Volleyball Professionals Open is back in Huntington Beach. Played right on the beach next to the Huntington Beach Pier, watch some of the best players in the association fight for a spot on the AVP League. Admission is free and the event will take place from May 17 to May 19 from 8 AM to 5 PM all days.

 

Anaheim Children’s Festival 

When: May 18 | 11 AM to 3 PM

Where: Pearson Park

Presented by the city of Anaheim and the Muzeo Museum and Cultural Center, this event will include hands-on art projects, booths and live music for families of all ages. This has been a staple of Anaheim for over 30 years and a must-do for any family ready to let their creativity shine. And the best part? All art activities are free!

 

29th Annual Balboa Island Artwalk 

When: May 19 | 9 AM – 5 PM

Where: 1000 South Bayfront in Balboa Island, CA 92662

Walk along the South Bayfront Promenade at Balboa Island for this year’s annual Artwalk. Over 90 fine art artists will exhibit their art, ranging from fine jewelry, blown glass, paintings and photography. Along with perusing art at this free event, enjoy the live music playing from three different stages along the promenade. This is a great event to celebrate local Balboa artists while soaking up the sun. 

 

Friday Night Munchies

Garden Grove Strawberry Festival 

When: May 27 – 29 | Friday, 1 PM – 10 PM, Saturday-Sunday 10 AM – 10 PM, Monday 10 AM – 9 PM

Where: Village Green in downtown Garden Grove

If you love strawberries, then you cannot miss this festival! The 64th annual festival will occur from May 24th to the 27th in downtown Garden Grove. Walk around the grounds and enjoy live musical performances, carnival rides, shop at the vendor booths and eat delicious strawberry-inspired goodies. Make sure to stick around on Saturday to watch the Strawberry Festival Parade. Each day of the festival has a full schedule, so make sure to check here in advance.