From spring garden fairs and flower festivals to parades and Mother’s Day fun – the events coming up in May are sure to cure any rainy day blues leftover from April. Check out our list of favorite happenings around the Greater Portland area, Vancouver, and Spokane. And, be sure to check our calendar for updated event dates and times.
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May Events in Oregon & Washington
Bridgetown Comedy Festival – May 4-7
The Bridgetown Comedy Festival is celebrating it’s 10th year of laughs in the Rose City. This year’s festival features over 200 top comedians, including Janeane Garofalo, Eugene Mirman, and Andy Kindler. Don’t miss Portland’s favorite comedy festival – tickets are going fast!
Cinco de Mayo Festival – May 5-7
The Cinco de Mayo weekend kicks off at the Waterfront with the Portland Guadalajara Sister City Association’s 33rd Annual Cinco de Mayo Fiesta! The fiesta includes live entertainment, authentic Mexican cuisine, free arts and crafts activities for kids, an Artisan Village, and much more.
Kid’s Fishing Festival – May 6
Take your kids to spend the day with the Columbia Springs crew at the Kid’s Fishing Festival on the Columbia River. Columbia Springs is a local Vancouver organization that provides educational experiences to help foster a greater awareness of the natural world. The Fishing Festival provides every registered child with a pole and tackle to take home, a BBQ lunch, and a fishing mentor to help teach the fundamentals of fishing. Tickets are only $7 for a day of fishy fun!
Spring Garden Fair – May 6-7
The Spring Garden Fair in Canby is one of the Northwest’s most anticipated springtime events. Vendors include OSU Master Gardeners as well as other favorite local growers, artists, and industry experts. The fair includes the popular “Ask a Master Gardener” booth where you can bring your toughest garden and pest questions to the pros. Check out the Spring Garden Fair site for a full list of event features and services.
Camas Mother’s Day Plant & Garden Fair – May 13
Held the day before Mother’s Day is the Camas Plant & Garden Fair draws thousands of visitors each year. The fair offers a huge selection of plants, trees, garden art, and expert local growers and vendors. A portion of the proceeds of each sale go toward providing educational scholarships to local women who are continuing their education.
Run Mama Run! – May 14
If you’re looking to get a little exercise in on your Mother’s Day, head to Mt. Tabor Park for Run Mama Run! This fun Mother’s Day run/walk is a benefit for Family Forward, an organization that works to advocate an economy for mothers. Kid’s can get involved with their own fun run and craft activities to keep them occupied while mama runs!
Spokane Lilac Festival – May 18-21
The Spokane Lilac Festival has been an integral part of Spokane’s history since 1938. The festival works to promote outstanding youth through it’s Royalty program and showcase and honor Spokane’s military population. The Spokane Lilac Festival has many events throughout the month of May, including the annual golf tournament, Queen’s Luncheon, and most famously, the parade which draws over 150,000 people each year.
Lake Oswego Historic Home Tour – May 20
A yearly fundraiser for the Oswego Heritage Council, the Lake Oswego Historic Home Tour invites the public into the beautiful historic homes in the community. These homes are chosen for their minimal modifications and architectural beauty that has withstood the test of time.
Dozer Day – May 20-21
At Dozer Day, kids are put in the driver’s seat of real heavy construction equipment, fire engines, ambulances, and more. Why? The Nutter Foundation hopes to help educate kids about building sustainable communities, industry opportunities, and public safety. This annual fundraiser for children’s charities is a dream-come-true for that little one who’s always been fascinated with construction or wants to be a fireman when they grow up.
Mt. Tabor Art Walk – May 20-21
The Mt. Tabor Art Walk is a great way to get to know your neighbors and see some beautiful art. The art walk showcases many of the artists who live in the Mt. Tabor area and is designed to promote high-quality visual art. Check out the website for a map of artists.
Meteorite & Family Fun Day – May 27
The Meteorite & Family Fun Day at the Rice Northwest Museum of Rocks and Minerals is a great opportunity for people of all ages. With admission at only $5, you’ll get entrance to the museum, as well as access to talks on meteorites, games, activities, and much more.
Wine Country Weekend – May 27-29
Memorial Day weekend in Wine Country? What could be better? The Memorial Weekend in the Wine Country is one of the regions longest running events. With nearly 150 wineries participating, it’s the perfect way to kick off the summer wine season and celebrate Oregon Wine Month.