What To Do in Dallas in May
Venture to new venues, the latest eateries and the enjoyable outdoors in May.
The month of May is the perfect time to come to Dallas and play. From a multitude of concerts to exciting celebrations like Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Cinco De Mayo, there are many ways to enjoy the month in Dallas.
Get Your Live Music Fix
- You can always count on American Airlines Center to host the biggest concerts. Beliebers can see Justin Bieber on May 1, fans of classic rock can rock out to The Who on May 5 and "Blockheads" can jam out to their favorites from NKOTB on May 22. Looking for a drink or quick bite before or after the show? Check out where to pre-game the concert near the venue.
- Catch a show at The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory and enjoy the great spring weather at this open-air venue. See HAIM on May 5, Phoebe Bridges on May 19 or Jack White on May 23.
- Adventure out to Fair Park to see Coldplay and H.E.R. at Cotton Bowl Stadium at Fair Park on May 6, Miranda Lambert & Little Big Town on May 7, Dave Matthews Band on May 14 and Cody Jinks Memorial Day weekend at Dos Equis Pavilion. Make plans to start or finish your concert night at Craft & Growler – located just across the street from Fair Park with more than 30 craft beers on draft.
Honor Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Dallas
- Discover the art of the Samurai at the Ann & Gabriel Barbier-Mueller Museum: The Samurai Collection in the Harwood District. After your visit, stop by Imoto for sushi and cocktails.
- In the Dallas Arts District, visit a vibrant, new exhibit from JooYoung Choi at the Crow Museum of Asian Art. Check out the Dallas Museum of Art, where you can explore the Arts of Asia and Arts of the Pacific Islands collection. If it's your first visit, use our first timer's guide to the DMA for additional info and tips!
- After museum hopping, dine at a local Japanese favorite, Tei-An. On your way out, stop by to admire the Morton Meyerson Symphony's Center, designed by Chinese American, renowned architect, I.M. Pei.
Spend Memorial Day Weekend in Dallas
- Head to the Carne Asada Fest on May 29 to enjoy the showcase of food, family, music and 25 + of North Texas' finest Latin food vendors.
- If you are looking to spend time outside and save some money, check out this guide to free outdoor adventures.
- If you're visiting with kids, or just love animals, let these 11 photos of the Dallas Zoo inspire you to visit. If you're a parent to older kids, check out this guide to keep them entertained or this guide on where to cool off around town.
- For happy hour or evening entertainment, channel your competitive side at Electric Shuffle then head over to Adair's Saloon, a local watering hole famous for live country music, dancing and an authentic Texas experience.
May the 4th be With You
- On May 6-8, listen and watch as Constantine Kitsopoulos conducts the spectacular, climactic sixth episode of the Star Wars saga. Watch the complete film unfold as the DSO performs John Williams's legendary score live at the Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.
Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo
- Head to historic Jefferson Boulevard to party at Cinco de Mayo Dallas, an annual event celebrating Hispanic American heritage, with a parade and citywide fiestas. While you're in Oak Cliff, pop into Xamán Cafe for coffee and baked goods or Ayahuasca Cantina to enjoy some authentic Mexican dishes or drinks.
- Dance it out at Beto and Son's salsa nights every Thursday, and make sure to try the famous nitrogen margarita. If you're hunting for authentic tacos, look no further than this list of Dallas' best street tacos.
- Before you leave Dallas you must try the Mambo Taxi, a Dallas staple made of swirled margarita and sangria, at the new Mi Cocina on the Park.
Other Can't-Miss Events in May
- On May 15, head to Fair Park for the Flora Fest family festival at Texas Discovery Gardens Butterfly house and Native Gardens.
- From May 3-7, head to the Music Hall for the musical Mean Girls.
- Dive into the Dallas Arts District for Black Violin, Abba the Concert and more!
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