May is the perfect time to explore and try new things. Colorado flourishes with color as the days grow longer and summer nears.
Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in cultural festivities, engage in outdoor adventures or simply enjoy nice weather, Colorado offers a plethora of events in May that cater to all interests. From Star Wars celebrations to fly fishing clinics, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, embrace the season and discover exciting activities this May in Colorado.
May 3-4: Cinco de Mayo festival – Denver
Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican army’s victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. It is widely observed in the United States as a day to celebrate Mexican culture and heritage.
With more than 400,000 attendees expected, it’s one of Denver’s most fun and family-friendly events. The event includes live music, traditional dance performances and a variety of food and drink vendors.
May 4: ‘May the Fourth be with you’ celebration – throughout Colorado
Since the release of the first Star Wars film in 1977, millions of people of all ages have fallen in love with this iconic “good vs. evil” story set in a galaxy far, far away.
“May the Fourth be with you” has become an iconic phrase around the globe, inspiring fans to celebrate on May 4, also known as Star Wars Day. Events include dancing, painting and costume contests, so “let the force guide you.” There is something for everyone, so remember, “Do or do not. There is no try.”
Here are a few May 4 events:
Fort Collins: Totally 80s Pizza and Museum will host a free event featuring face painting, Star Wars décor and memorabilia and a meet-and-greet with your favorite Star Wars characters.
Colorado Springs: Kids ages 4 and older are invited to compete in a Battle Saber Tournament at the Empower Training Center starting at 9:30 a.m. FearNoBully.org is hosting the event.
Denver: Dress as your favorite character for a Star Wars-themed Baby Goat Yoga session through Denver Yoga Social.
Boulder: Bring your young Jedi to the Boulder Public Library from 2:30 to 4 p.m. for a Star Wars Day LEGO workshop. Recreate your favorite epic battle from Star Wars with almost unlimited LEGOS.
May 4: Intro to Fly Fishing casting clinic – Pueblo
Learn casting skills and techniques from members of the Pueblo Tailwater Renegades, a local organization whose members are passionate about fly fishing and focused on conservation and education. The event costs $10 and is for those 12 and older at City Park, Lake Joy, 800 Goodnight Ave. Preregister by May 1. The City of Pueblo’s Office of Outdoor Recreation sponsors the clinic.
May 9-10: Colorado Chocolate Festival – Denver
Did you say “chocolate festival?” Yes, we did. A $10 ticket gets you in the door (kids 10 and under are free), and another $10 gives you a dozen taste tickets. More than 30,000 square feet of chocolate heaven is inside the National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt St., in Denver. The event is expected to draw 80 vendors. Because it is so popular, tickets sold online offer timed entry. Check out the event schedule (and photos of mouthwatering chocolate.)
May 10: Mom & Son Nerf War – Pueblo
Grab your Nerf guns and children this Mother’s Day for an epic Nerf battle at Lovell Park in Pueblo. Children ages 5 to 13 will be divided into age groups for play sessions. A $5 entry fee per person includes snacks and drinks, safety goggles, Nerf darts and a special gift for mom. No high-powered or Rival blasters are allowed.
The event takes place from 12:30 to 3:15 p.m. at Lovell Park Ballfield #1, 362 E. Hahn’s Peak Ave. Dads can volunteer to referee the games. Sign up online through May 7 (and more details will be emailed to you by May 8).
May 17: Spring Gala Cinderella – near Longmont
Be prepared to be swept away by a performance full of comedy, jealousy, love at first sight and the timeless magic of happily ever after.
The Centennial State Ballet presents Kathryn Rogers’ world premiere of Cinderella at Niwot High School Auditorium in Niwot, Colorado, on May 17. This enchanting production features live musical accompaniment, stunning custom sets and costumes and a classic story perfect for all ages.
As the performance to conclude this year’s Centennial State Ballet season, there will be a 1 p.m. matinee and 6 p.m. evening show only. There is a shorter, narrated, sensory-friendly version of Cinderella, Brunch of Ballet at 11:30 a.m. on April 27 at The St. Vrain in Longmont.
Celebrate the arts while supporting local youth and watching performances by up-and-coming ballet dancers.
May 22-26: Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall – Fort Collins
During Memorial Day weekend pay your respects at the Traveling Vietnam Memorial Wall, 2626 W. Horsetooth Road, Spring Canyon Community Park, southwest Fort Collins.
Honor the 58,267 service members who gave their lives between 1957 and 1975. Each of their names is chronologically listed on the wall. An official Memorial Day ceremony is from noon to 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 25. It will include military displays and flyovers, a 21-gun salute and keynote speaker, retired Army Brig. Gen. Art Dillon.
May 24-26: Territory Days in Old Colorado City – Colorado Springs
This large three-day street fair on the west side of Colorado Springs has it all: hundreds of vendors, Native American cultural performances, educational activities, Wild West characters, live bands on four stages and much, much more.
Territory Days celebrates the rich history of Colorado City. Once known as the settlement of El Dorado, it was named Colorado City by its founders in 1859 and was the first permanent town in the Pikes Peak region. When gold was discovered in the region and because then-neighboring Colorado Springs prohibited alcohol sales, Colorado City became a mecca of saloons, gaming parlors and brothels. Colorado City eventually became part of Colorado Springs and the family-friendly Territory Days has been celebrated for 50 years.