May Curated: Austin’s Top 11 Events This Month
Plan a memorable month of May with art openings, ballet, fashion shows, spring markets and more
May is buzzing with excitement in Austin! With our issue release party, spring markets, art events, ballet, fashion shows, theatre, and ways to celebrate Mom, here’s our list of top events to add to your calendar.
Chrome & Culture: Car Show and TRIBEZA Issue Release Party
Central Machine Works
May 6
TRIBEZA invites you to celebrate the release of the May/June Community magazine issue at Central Machine Workson May 6 from 6 to 8 p.m. This free event pairs a curated showcase of vintage European cars presented by Manual Focus, along with a live performance from local singer-songwriter JD Clark. Head over to pick up a copy of the magazine, explore the cars and meet new faces. Admission is free with RSVP and open to all.
Hunt Slonem Art Exhibition
West Chelsea Contemporary
now through May 24
The WCC gallery presents an immersive exploration of Hunt Slonem’s art. Back by popular demand, this exhibition features 118 new works across diverse media, including mosaic, expressive oil paintings and sculptural glass. Learn more and book a private appointment here.
“Dear Evan Hansen”
Zach Theater
Through May 31
The Tony winner for Best Musical in 2017 tells the story of Evan Hansen, a teen whose lie by omission spirals out of control. This is a different kind of coming-of-age story that involves mental health, loss and how tech molds our interior lives. Come for the incredible songs, stay for the thought-provoking life lessons.
Blue Genie May Market
6100 Airport Blvd.
May 1 – 31 (Fridays – Sundays)
The May Market is a free, family-friendly experience showcasing the work of nearly 200 artists and artisans under one roof, offering an ideal place to shop for one-of-a-kind gifts for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, graduations, anniversaries, weddings and more.
Austin Fashion Week
The Domain
May 6 – 9
The annual Austin Fashion Week returns for this spring with special showcases featuring emerging designers, black designers, local student designers and more. Ticket info.
Friends Fair
The Loren Hotel
May 7-9
Friends Fair will return to Austin for its second edition May 7-9 at The Loren at Lady Bird Lake, expanding from 10 exhibitors last year to 17 galleries and project spaces taking over the hotel’s second floor. More info and RSVP.
Pecan Street Festival
Hill Country Galleria
May 9 & 10
One of the largest and longest-running arts, crafts and music festivals in the nation, the Pecan Street Spring Arts Festival has a new home this May at the Hill Country Galleria. Enjoy more than 300 craft artisans amidst a weekend-long celebration. View the full schedule and lineup.
Ballet Austin presents “The Magic Flute”
Long Center
May 8 – 10
A perfect opportunity to treat all moms during Mother’s Day weekend, “The Magic Flute” takes you on a whimsical adventure with Ballet Austin’s adaptation of Mozart’s opera. Enjoy Stephen Mills’ playful choreography combined with imaginative Cambodian shadow puppetry and fantastical creatures.
Broadway in Austin: “The Wiz”
Bass Concert Hall
May 12-17
This reinterpretation of “The Wizard of Oz” celebrates Black culture and music, with music and lyrics by Charlie Smalls. Dorothy Gale is transported in a tornado from her Kansas farm to the Land of Oz, where she sets off on a magical journey in silver shoes down the Yellow Brick Road to meet the Wizard of Oz, defeat the Wicked Witch of the West and ultimately find her way home — all set to a funky bassline.
“The Seasons of Little Tree” Book Launch Party
UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum
May 14
Celebrate the launch of “The Seasons of Little Tree” with author Dr. Nahal Delpassand and illustrator Aram Amini. The family-friendly event will take place from 6-9 p.m. and will feature wine, sweet treats and interactive activities for children, including face painting and balloon art from Giggle Crew, as guests explore the garden and enjoy offerings from Antojitos Snack Bar, Honey Brie ATX, Kellie’s Baking Co. and beverages from Social Butterfly ATX.
Affordable Art Fair
Palmer Events Center
May 14 – 17
With local, national and international galleries all under one roof at the Affordable Art Fair, prepare to experience original artworks by a whole host of established and emerging artists. Artworks are priced between $100 and $10,000. There are plenty of special activities during the Art Fair, include a VIP night on Thursday. Learn more about the schedule and ticket options.
Much More to Explore this Month
Of course, there are far more amazing events to enjoy this month, and you can browse our online events calendar for even more ideas on things to see and do this May in Austin, including these galas and fundraisers: