What to do in Portland in May: tacos, tunes and UFOs
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.
Oregon's largest multicultural festival kicks off this weekend. Photo: Courtesy of Portland Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
We've made it to May — the gateway to all the warm weather activities, festivals and community celebrations.
Driving the news: A long-awaited reunion show, an outer space-themed costume contest and Portland's premiere summertime party are among nine events to get you out on the town.
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
May 2-5
Opening the city's summer festival season, the annual celebration of Mexican food, culture and art will be on full display across three days down at Tom McCall Waterfront Park.
- Browse the Guadalajara Artisan Village — featuring woven textiles, pottery, jewelry and more — then grab a bite from over 30 food vendors, slinging carne asada tacos, tamales and churros, before catching the headline acts.
One Moto
May 2-4
This three-day event at Zidell Yards is a big draw for the region's gear heads with custom-built, one-of-a-kind bikes.
Salt & Straw's Tyler Malek at Powell's
May 9
The head ice cream maker at Portland's artisan brand will share his "ultimate recipes for America's favorite flavors" in a new cookbook, in conversation with food critic Karen Brooks.
"Grey Gardens" at Tomorrow Theater
May 11
An intimate portrait of a mother-daughter duo, who are distant cousins of Jackie Onassis, living in New York's East Hampton could be the perfect Mother's Day watch — if you're OK with a side of dysfunction.
McMenamins UFO Fest
May 16-17
McMinville celebrates its infamous UFO sighting with an annual costume contest (humanoids and pets), street fair and dance party.
J Balvin
May 17
The Colombian singer is bringing his mainstream reggaeton beats to the Moda Center, where he'll surely play hits like "Mi Gente," "6 AM" and "Ginza."
Mount Tabor Art Walk
May 17-18
Here's a unique opportunity to visit more than 50 local artists in their home studios to get a behind-the-scenes look at their processes and inspiration.
Rilo Kiley at McMenamins Grand Lodge
May 23
The iconic indie rock band broke the hearts of nearly every Gen Xer when they announced their split nearly 15 years ago. Luckily, the quartet has reunited and is touring their greatest hits for the first time since 2008.
- The show is sold out, but resale tickets start at $100 each.
Portland Rose Festival
May 23-June 22
Downtown's classic, monthlong fair and carnival returns. Don't miss the opening night fireworks show on the Willamette, which draws crowds from across the state.