May in Raleigh is all about sunshine, blooming vibes, and getting out into the community! Whether you’re into art, food, live music, or cosplay (yes, for real), there’s a little something for everyone this month. We rounded up the best festivals and events happening around the Triangle to help you plan your weekends with ease.

🎶 May 1

Beach Music Series – The ToneZ
📍 North Hills | ⏰ 6–9 PM
Kick off the month with beachy tunes, dancing, and laid-back fun at North Hills. The perfect way to ease into warmer weather.

Carter Cruise
📍 Venue TBD | ⏰ 9 PM
Looking for nightlife vibes? Carter Cruise will be performing in Raleigh- check local venues for full details.

🎨 May 2

Artspace First Friday
📍 Artspace, Downtown Raleigh | ⏰ 5–10 PM
Explore local galleries, meet artists, and enjoy live performances as you stroll through this downtown arts tradition.

Jon Stewart Live
📍 Memorial Auditorium
Get ready to laugh until your cheeks hurt- comedy icon Jon Stewart is hitting the stage in Raleigh.

🛼 May 3

Adult Recess Triangle Festival
📍 Fred Fletcher Park | ⏰ 2–8 PM
This 21+ throwback event features dodgeball, kickball, a pop-up roller rink, and all the nostalgic fun you could want.

🌼 May 10

Spring in the City Festival
📍 Moore Square, Downtown Raleigh
Celebrate the season with a free, family-friendly festival full of food vendors, live music, local makers, and more.

🎸 May 11 & 13

Pearl Jam Concert
📍 Venue TBD
The legendary band is coming to Raleigh for not one, but TWO nights. Snag your tickets early—these shows will sell out.

🎨 May 17–18

Artsplosure – The Raleigh Arts Festival
📍 Fayetteville Street
This iconic two-day festival brings over 180 visual artists, local performers, and creative experiences right to the heart of downtown.

Bimbé Cultural Arts Festival
📍 Durham
Celebrate African and African American culture through food, music, art, and heritage. A must-attend if you’re up for a short drive!

🐉 May 23–25

Animazement
📍 Raleigh Convention Center
Calling all anime fans! This Japanese culture convention is full of cosplay, panels, gaming, and high-energy fandom fun.

🍗 May 24

Taste of Soul Food Festival
📍 Durham
Soul food meets soul music in this delicious cultural celebration just down the road.

⛳ May 29–June 1

UNC Health Golf Championship
📍 Raleigh Country Club
Whether you’re into pro golf or just love a scenic outdoor event, this championship weekend is packed with competition and community.

✨ Let’s Recap

May is bursting with energy—and Raleigh’s local scene is bringing it. From beach music to anime conventions, spring art festivals to soul food celebrations, there’s something happening every single weekend.

So grab your calendar, rally your friends, and go make some memories this month. And don’t forget to tag @theraleighlocal in your posts so we can share the local love!