Things to do in the Valley: May 2-5 | Things to Do

The first weekend in May is packed with possibilities. Whether you’re in the mood for Cinco de Mayo celebrations, ballet, art, or a night under the stars, there’s something for everyone. Read on to plan your perfect weekend lineup.

Celebrate Cinco de Mayo. From May 2-5, the Phoenix metro area will come alive with an epic array of Cinco de Mayo celebrations — think cultural festivals, live music, irresistible eats, and family-friendly fun across town. Find out about all the fun here.

A colorful evening. Phoenix will come alive with color, creativity and community as the Exhibit 1.0 Creative Showcase takes over Arizona Center on Saturday, May 3. Organized by the Art Collective Council, the juried event will feature a broad spectrum of artistic talent through visual art, sculpture, interactive installations, digital media and live performance. Learn more here.

Ballet performances. Ballet Arizona is offering audiences a dynamic celebration of classical and contemporary ballet this May with two standout productions: its annual “All Balanchine” program at Symphony Hall and the return of “An Evening at Desert Botanical Garden,” featuring Ib Andersen’s acclaimed Eroica. Read this article for all of the details.

Jazz it up. Jazz singer Tommy Gearhart will bring the timeless sounds of Tony Bennett to Desert Hills Presbyterian Church on Sunday, May 4, as part of the church’s Arts at the Rocks series. The free concert begins at 4 p.m. at the church campus, 34605 N. Tom Darlington Road, nestled at the foot of the boulders in North Scottsdale. Check out the notes here.

A night under the stars. Carefree residents and visitors can enjoy stargazing at “Carefree Under the Stars” on Monday, May 5, from 8-10 p.m. at the Our Lady of Joy Church parking lot. This free, family-friendly event includes telescopes, a meteorite exhibit, guided constellation tours, and expert-led sky photography. Discover more about the event here.

A night of excellence. The Kiwanis Club of Carefree will hold its annual “A Night of Excellence” scholarship ceremony on Monday, May 5 at 6 p.m. at the Cactus Shadows Fine Arts Center. The event honors local students receiving scholarships. Keynote speaker Ricky Watters will share his inspiring story of perseverance. The event is open to the public. Read all about it in this recent article. 

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