One of the greatest benefits of living in San Antonio is the variety of “things” to see and do. Each month, we will handpick 25 fun things to do in San Antonio...just to make planning your next Friday celebration, date night, or family outing a little easier. Take time to read and explore the many options for the month of May!
1. Honor the Armed Forces
With Memorial Day fast approaching, this is a great time to honor San Antonio’s status as “Military City, USA”! Reserve time to honor those who have served in the Armed Forces, both current and past. The San Antonio Riverwalk is hosting an Armed Forces Parade along the river with 25 decorated floats and patriotic music to pay tribute to the men and women who serve our country.
When: May 20, 6:00-7:00 PM
Where: River Walk & Arneson Theatre (418 Villita St.)
2. Celebrate Tejano Music
Image Courtesy of the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center
It’s time for the 36th Annual Tejano Conjunto Festival! This cultural festival features performances by multiple Conjunto Hall of Fame winners and international musicians. It’s a festival that draws a crowd of over ten thousand every single year, offering the opportunity to celebrate fantastic music, hear new songs, and experience the culture. Get ready to hear outstanding performances through the weekend. It’s an event that you won’t want to miss!
When: May 24-28 (Times here)
Where: Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center (1301 Guadalupe St.)
3. Get Groovy
This month, The Emperor’s New Threads is being performed at the Magik Theatre. There’s a bit of a twist on this version, though: the classic story is set in the groovy 1960’s! This performance tells the tale of a shallow Emperor obsessed with his appearance and a young girl who decides to teach him a lesson. This is a great play for both little ones and adults!
When: April 21st-June 3rd
Where: Magik Theatre (420 S. Alamo St.)
4. Float Along the River
The Floating Festival is a fun, progressive dinner cruise along the San Antonio River, catered by some of the best restaurants on the River Walk. This fundraising event helps to give back and support art education while providing a memorable evening filled with food, wine, beer, and live entertainment.
When: May 2-3, 6:00 PM
Where: Lila Cockrell Room, River Level, Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center (900 E. Market St.)
5. Find Your Inner Child
You may remember the beloved movie Finding Neverland. Now, it’s been turned into Broadway’s newest musical! Nominated for the Audience Choice Award for “Best Musical,” this magical show will surely tap into your inner child. It tells the story behind Peter Pan, giving new insight into how the world of Neverland came to be. The songs are astounding and the story is memorable. You won’t want to miss the chance to take your kids to this one. It is a musical to delight all audiences!
When: May 2-7 (2:00, 7:30, & 8:00 PM)
Where: Majestic Theatre (224 E Houston St.)
6. Grab a Water Gun
The Animal Defense League of Texas is going for a record on May 4: World’s Largest Water Gun Fight. All you have to do to be a part of this historic moment is grab a water gun! At this point, there are already 3,875 participants and the list is growing. The entry for this exciting event is a simple donation of whatever amount you see fit. All proceeds go to the Animal Defense League. This is open to every age and would be a great activity for kids! No pets or water balloons are allowed, just plastic water guns. Pick one up at the store and have at it!
When: May 4, 6:30-8:00 PM
Where: 11300 Nacogdoches Road
7. Get A Seat at The Bus Stop
All month long, the Classic Theatre of San Antonio is performing Bus Stop, a unique play about a bus trapped in a snowstorm. With all roads blocked, several weary travelers decide to spend the night at a 24/7 local diner. As they wait for sunrise, relationships are built and advances are made. While this play may not be the most well-known, it’s certainly going to keep you entertained and eager for more.
When: May 5-28, 8:00 PM
Where: Classic Theatre of San Antonio (1924 Fredericksburg Road)
8. Admire Budding Artistic Talent
The Say Sí senior class of 2017 is ready to present their thesis exhibition called “No Borders.” The showcase presents introspective pieces that examine their youthful journey into the world of art. The teens have been able to hold a lot of freedom in their different pieces of art and have developed a very diverse showcase that exhibits both portfolio work and new pieces. Additionally, the seniors are planning to presenting an original theatre performance during the evening. This free event offers you the chance to see some of the artistic teens of San Antonio.
When: May 5-27, 6:00 to 9:00 PM
Where: 1518 S. Alamo St.
9. See A Classic Ballet
A classic ballet, Swan Lake is a story that has been told over and over again for years. Whereas the Russian Ballet Company performed the piece in 2016, now The Children’s Ballet of San Antonio is proudly presenting their take on the traditional show. The impressive company boasts impressive talent...you’ll be blown away by the capabilities of these young, spirited dancers! It’s a performance that you won’t want to miss.
When: May 6 (7:00 pm) & 7th (2:00 pm)
Where: Scottish Rite Theatre (308 Ave E)
10. Have a Picnic
Image Courtesy of the SA Current
Grab your picnic supplies, friends, and family for the Baskets & Blankets event that benefits Eva’s Heroes. Held in Brackenridge Park, the community picnic will offer meals from delicious restaurants like Green, Pam’s Patio, The Bread Box, and many other fabulous lunch spots. With spring weather in the air, it’s the perfect season to get outside and enjoy San Antonio. Bring your little ones for an afternoon in the park where you can soak up some sunshine, eat a great meal, and help out a local charity.
When: May 7, 5:00 PM
Where: Brackenridge Park (3910 N. St. Mary’s St.)
11. Hear Some Classical Music
This month, Musical Bridges Around The World will showcase a violin and piano performance to the music from the hit movie Black Swan...while the film itself plays in the background! This multimedia experience will include music, dance, and cinema, all rolled into one event. The musicians performing have had performances at Carnegie Hall, The Louvre, and The Kennedy Center. Needless to say, they are wonderful musicians and cannot wait to share their talents with a live audience at San Fernando Cathedral for this free event.
When: May 7, 7:00 PM
Where: San Fernando Cathedral (115 W. Main Plaza)
12. Attend a Concert
Known for hit songs like “Don’t Let Me Down,” “Closer,” and their original breakthrough, “Selfie,” The Chainsmokers have definitely hit gold when it comes to music. The EDM-pop duo has taken off over the last few years and is finally coming to San Antonio for a concert. The concert should be epic, allowing fans to see the band in action and sing along to all of the hit songs. Get ready to jam out with this one, and get your ticket quickly…they’re bound to sell out soon!
When: May 11, 6:00 PM
Where: Freeman Coliseum (3201 E Houston St.)
13. Taste San Antonio
The San Antonio Zoo is hosting Zoo La La—A Taste of Sa n Antonio. The fundraiser allows you to experience amazing food from 50 San Antonio restaurants while you stroll through the pathways at the zoo, watching animals in their natural habitat. Live music, samplings of wine and beer, and light bites will be available throughout the evening. You can expect food from restaurants like La Gloria, The Boiler House SA, Whiskey Cake, and more. It’s truly a unique experience and is the ultimate “adult” zoo event!
When: May 11, 7:00 PM
Where: San Antonio Zoo
14. Support Handmade Creations
Image Courtesy of San Antonio Potter’s Guild
Head over to the Pearl on May 13 for the annual Clay Arts Festival! The event will feature over thirty vendors showcasing all of their beautiful creations, from pottery to sculptures to beautiful dishes. Best of all, each piece is a one-of-a-kind creation from a local clay or glass artist. The farmers market will be open as an added bonus so that you can pick up some fresh fruits and veggies while you’re out shopping around.
When: May 13, 9:00 AM-4:00 PM
Where: 303 Pearl Parkway
15. Celebrate with the Gipsy Kings
Famous salsa, flamenco, and guitar group The Gipsy Kings is coming to San Antonio. This time, they are celebrating the 25th Anniversary of their Grammy award! The group can take you to another country with their exotic music and amazing skills. The band has been described as having a “Rumba Flamenca” style with a slight pop influence. Don’t miss out because this group usually only comes to the city once a year! Get a ticket quickly before they sell out the Majestic.
When: May 18, 8:00 PM
Where: The Majestic Theatre (224 E Houston St.)
16. Slide Into Springfest
Springfest at Retama Park is actually the largest carnival in North America, inviting you to jump into Spring at full force! With a huge carnival, live music, food, drinks, and special events, you’ll have more than enough to do. You can see the rattlesnake exhibit and watch performers do crazy tricks. Additionally, you can cool off with the snow slide experience. Play in real snow and ride down the slide to beat the heat of a Texas spring. The carnival also has an educational show with black bears that is perfectly suited for young ones. No worries if you can’t make the carnival the first weekend; it stretches into two! With just a $6 admission fee, it’s safe to say this is one of the cheapest forms of entertainment happening in the city this month.
When: May 19-29th (Times here)
Where: 1 Retama Pkwy
17. Experience Punk Rock
The classic Texas band ZZ Top is giving a performance at the Majestic Theatre! While they originally began as a blues-inspired rock group, this band quickly turned to more of a punk rock sound. In 2004, ZZ Top was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. You can get your ticket to see this outstanding rock band do what they do best and jam along to all of their classic songs.
When: May 16, 8:00 PM
Where: Majestic Theatre (224 E Houston St.)
18. Get Creative with Basil
Basil is known as “the herb of summer,” and every year, San Antonio recognizes that with Basil Fest Champ. This event educates participants on the fabulous herb through cooking demonstrations and educational gardening tutorials. This year’s proceeds will go toward Clarity Child Guidance Center, a mental health facility for children. Taste delicious recipes, learn how to make pesto sauce, and enjoy the day and the recipes that are offered during this fun festival!
When: May 20, 9:00 AM-1:00 PM
Where: Pearl’s Farmers Market
19. Have a Laugh
The hilarious stand-up comedian John Mulaney is coming to town! Known for his baby face (but adult comedy), this kid will have you laughing out loud all night. He currently has a few of his specials on Netflix, so if you’d like to see a little bit of his work, you can pop it on and check him out. He’s got two shows on May 21, one at 7:00 and one at 9:30. We promise you’ll love his hilarious jokes and stories!
When: May 21, 7:00 & 9:30 PM
Where: The Aztec Theatre (104 N. St. Mary’s St.)
20. Pick Up Some Good Vibrations
The Good Vibrations Music Festival has got it going on! A cultural experience for all ages, this festival invites participants to enjoy great food and drinks, craft booths, and fabulous music. The concert is also deaf accessible and has ASL interpretation available. Singer/songwriter Ben Rector will be the headline performance, singing many of his well-known pop hits. The concert benefits the deaf and offers a great experience for any music-lover. Pick up a ticket, and you’ll have a memorable day.
When: May 20, 4:00 PM-12:00 AM
Where: 1850 Settlement
21. Celebrate Memorial Day
Head to the River Walk for an amazing Memorial Day Artisan Show. All of the items shown will be handmade, and the shops will boast everything from jewelry to fine art. Browse the booths with family and friends, and you’re sure to find something to bring home with you! This is a great activity to bring you outdoors and allow you to enjoy the long weekend in celebration of our soldiers.
Image Courtesy of the San Antonio River Walk
When: May 26-29, 11:00 AM-11:00 PM
Where: River Walk near Rivercenter Mall
22. Rock Out at Rockfest
River City Rockfest is a one-day event that brings tons of rockin bands to play for your enjoyment. Def Leppard, Godsmack, The Offspring, and Taking Back Sunday are only a few bands that will perform at this incredible show. Rock out to your favorite bands and their hit songs as they perform all throughout the day. Get a ticket soon to guarantee your spot!
When: May 27 (Box Office opens at 10:00 AM)
Where: AT&T Center (One AT&T Parkway)
23. Bug Out!
Get ready for Bug Mania at the San Antonio Zoo! Replicas of larger-than-life insects will be scattered around the entire zoo in hopes that guests will learn more about bugs and the role that they play in our world. This is a great chance to teach young kids why they shouldn’t be afraid of these helpful creatures. The good news is that this particular event lasts from May 26 all the way to September 3, giving you and your family all summer long to enjoy the unique bug exhibit.
When: May 26-September 3 (Zoo Hours)
Where: The San Antonio Zoo (3903 N. St. Mary’s St.)
24. Explore An Old Fire Station
The hottest new restaurant in town gives you a taste of San Antonio history. What used to be an old fire station has now been remodeled into the perfect evening spot for drinks and dinner: Battallion. Keeping with the original structure of the building, you’ll find fire poles extending from the second story to the first and an overall atmosphere that’s both modern and chic. The menu features small plates meant to share and amazing homemade pastas. Hip and trendy with a delicious menu, this place should definitely be on your radar this season.
When: 5:00 PM-11:00 PM
Where: 604 S. Alamo St.
25. Go Mad for Margaritas
Local San Antonio real estate brokerage Keller Williams Heritage will be hosting their 5th annual Margarita Madness event on Friday, May 5, 2015! The event, sponsored by Keller Williams, will benefit KW’s in-house charity, Agents Helping Agents (AHA). The brokerage has raised nearly $200 thousand in the past four years, all of which was given back to agents in need, all in the form of grants. Additionally, a portion of this year’s funds will be donated to Children’s Cancer Research. Tickets for the event are $25 in advance and $30 at the door, children under 12 are free. All attendees will enjoy access to unlimited margarita tasting, BBQ, entertainment by a live band, and refreshments!
When: May 5, 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Where: Keller Williams Heritage, 2338 North Loop 1604 W #120
