MAY EVENTS: 47 you won’t want to miss in Birmingham

May is packed with events happening all around Birmingham, so consider your calendar officially full. From Furnace Chicken Fest and Rosé in the Roses to Symphony in the Park with the Alabama Symphony Orchestra, plus plenty of game-time energy from the Stallions, Barons and Regions Tradition—your weekends are officially booked.

We even tossed in a bonus event in Decatur (about 1.5 hours away) for those of you feeling a little road-trip curious.

• Small Business Week is May 3–9: How to support local + participate.
• It’s Farmers Market Season: Shop fresh across Birmingham.

Have an event you’d like to promote? Add it to our free calendar now.

Arts events

1. Masterworks: Heart of a New World with Alabama Symphony Orchestra (+ Coffee Concert)

• What: Spend an evening with acclaimed cellist Julian Schwarz and the Alabama Symphony Orchestra—the only full-time symphony in the state. The night celebrates American creativity and spirit through three distinctive works:
  • Samuel Barber’s Overture to The School for Scandal
  • Jennifer Higdon’s Cello Concerto—a Pulitzer Prize-winning work
  • Dvořák’s Symphony No. 9 in E minor, “From the New World”
• When: 
  • Masterworks: Fri, May 1 + Sat, May 2 | 7PM
  • Coffee Concert: Fri, May 1 | 11AM
• Where: UAB’s Alys Stephens Center
• Cost:
  • Masterworks: $12–$90
  • Coffee Concert: $10–$35
• Masterworks Details | Coffee Concert Details

2. Art in the Village: 2026 Spring Art Show

• What: Support local arts at this annual spring event featuring a beautiful juried art show of high-quality fine art painting and drawing in traditional media.
• When: Sat, May 2 | 9AM–4:30PM
• Where: Mountain Brook City Hall
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

3. Art in the Lot

• What: Mark your calendar for this free, biannual art show in Homewood. Check out 80+ local artisans displaying a diverse range of mediums, including painting, woodworking, ceramics, jewelry, fiber works and more.
• When: Sat, May 2 | 9AM–2PM
• Where: Trinity United Methodist Church—Oxmoor Campus, Homewood
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

4. Art After 5: Emily in Paris

• What: Channel your inner Emily Cooper’s zest for Parisian fashion and photo-ready moments at this special event at the Birmingham Museum of Art. Inspired by the series’ fashion-forward style and creative ambition, it features themed cocktails, hands-on art activities, music and more. Museum galleries will be open for self-guided tours.
• When: Thurs, May 7 | 5–9PM
• Where: Birmingham Museum of Art
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

5. Alabama Ballet presents Unbound: Serenade + Carmina Burana with Alabama Symphony Orchestra

• What: Ready to switch things up? Unbound brings a fresh, high-energy twist with a mixed repertory program that pushes ballet beyond the traditional. It’s featured in Alabama Ballet’s 2026–2027 Sapphire Season—marking 45 years of blending timeless technique with bold, modern creativity. The coolest part? The Alabama Symphony Orchestra performs live, bringing the music and movement together in a powerful way.
• When: 
  • Fri, May 8 | 7:30PM
  • Sat, May 9 | 7:30PM
  • Sun, May 10 | 2PM
• Where: BJCC Concert Hall
• Cost: Prices vary per seat | Tickets begin at $60
• Details | Tickets

6. The Cry of Jazz: Film Screening and Panel Discussion with the Sun Ra Arkestra

• What: Dive into the world of Sun Ra with a screening of “The Cry of Jazz,” featuring rare footage of him and his Arkestra. Stick around after the film as members of the Sun Ra Arkestra join Burgin Mathews and Jessica Chriesman for a laid-back convo on his influence—from film to Afrofuturism.
• When: Thurs, May 21 | 6–7:30PM
• Where: Birmingham Museum of Art
• Cost: Free admission | Register to attend
• Details

7. Symphony in the Summer

• What: Your Memorial Day Weekend is set with one of the city’s most beloved events: Symphony in the Summer. The Alabama Symphony Orchestra will perform three nights of free, live music at Railroad Park, from classical favorites to Broadway medleys and patriotic hits. Bring a blanket, lawn chairs and a picnic and enjoy the show with family and friends.
• When: Fri, May 22–Sun, May 24 | Concert begins each night at 7:30PM
• Where: Railroad Park, Birmingham
• Cost: Free
• Details

Educational events

8. Revolutionary Roots: Celebrating Alabama’s Unique History and Natural Beauty

• What: Vulcan Park & Museum is honoring America’s 250th by spotlighting Alabama changemakers—past and present—who helped shape the state and country. From Calvin McGhee and Carrie Tuggle to Virginia Durr, Clyde Foster, Ashley M. Jones and Dr. Carlos E. Alemán, the display highlights powerful stories that are often overlooked. It all comes together around a striking tree installation that shows just how deep Alabama’s roots run.
• When: Now–Jan. 2027
• Where: Vulcan Park & Museum
• Cost: Included in general admission
• Details

9. I See Me, Inc. Literacy Summit

• What: Join educators, parents and community leaders to share innovative strategies, tools and resources that promote literacy success at the I See Me, Inc. Literacy Summit. Throughout the day, there will be dynamic discussions, expert sessions and practical insights designed to cultivate confident readers and future leaders, driving positive change in varied learning environments.
• When: Thurs, May 7 | 8:30AM–3PM
• Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
• Cost: $33.85
• Details

10. Community Wellness Fair

• What: Whether you play sports or are just seeking some health tips, mark your calendar for this Community Wellness Fair. There will be sports physicals provided by UAB Sports & Exercise Medicine, comprehensive health screenings from Live HealthSmart, giveaways and more.
• When: May 13 | 4–7PM
• Where: Protective Stadium
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

Entertainment and festivals

11. Third Day 30th Anniversary Tour with special guest Zach Williams

• What: Third Day reunites for a 30th anniversary tour, bringing original members of the group back on stage together for the first time in over a decade. Expect a night filled with their biggest hits, plus a special guest set from Zach Williams.
• When: Fri, May 1 | 7PM
• Where: Legacy Arena at the BJCC
• Cost: $25+
• Details | Tickets

12. We Love Homewood Day 2026

• What: Celebrate the City of Homewood with a full lineup of exciting activities, from a 5K and sidewalk chalk art to a vendor expo, food trucks and live entertainment. Stick around for the festive parade that marches through town and a street dance in Edgewood you’ll definitely want to be part of.
• When: Sat, May 2 | Day begins with a race at 7:30AM
• Where: Homewood Central Park + Edgewood
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

13. Firehouse presents Barber Pole Sound

• What: Firehouse Community Arts Center is bringing a special night of music to Lakeview Marina Music Park, spotlighting some of its most talented student performers from over the years. Barberpole will headline the show.
• When: Sat, May 2 | 6PM
• Where: Lakeview Marina Music Park
• Cost: $6
• Details

14. The Barky Derby

• What: The Barky Derby takes over Avondale Brewing Company for an afternoon of adoptable pups, raffles prizes and Derby Day fun. Grab a drink, enjoy the festivities and support a great cause: giving animals a loving home.
• When: Sat, May 2 | 1–3PM
• Where: Avondale Brewing Co
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

15. Summer Whites, BBQ Reds Wine Tasting

• What: Enjoy vino and vibes at this wine tasting event featuring 50+ wines and a grill-fired kickoff to the summer season. One of Birmingham’s fave annual events, this tasting offers warm-weather vibes and big flavors with a must-sip menu.
• When: Sun, May 3 | 12PM
• Where: Red or White Birmingham
• Cost: Early Bird $65 (available until April 20) | $85 (after April 20)
  • Each ticket also includes a $20 credit towards any wines sampled.
• Details

16. T3 BIRTHDAY BASH ft YFN Lucci, YK Niece, OMB Peezy, Belly Gang Kushington, Taffy & Friends

• What: This birthday bash is where you’ll want to be this May for live southern rap, rising stars and a crowd-ready celebration.
• When: Sun, May 3 | 7PM
• Where: Legacy Arena at the BJCC
• Cost: $99.32+
• Details | Tickets

17. Handyman Hal Comes to Town

• What: Keep the kids entertained with this high-energy show packed with songs, silly moments and hands-on fun. Children can sing, dance, help build a mystery project and take part in a wild dino-sized science experiment.
• When: Sun, May 3 | 3PM
• Where: BJCC Theatre
• Cost: $32.60
• Details

18. Rosé in the Roses

• What: Sip curated rosé from Finch Fine Wines while taking in the beauty of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens at this festive fundraiser. Reservations are required for this feel-good event supporting student internships and hands-on learning opportunities in public horticulture.
• When: Thurs, May 7 | 5:30–7PM
• Where: Birmingham Botanical Gardens
• Cost: BBG Members $45 | Nonmembers $50
• Details

19. Yacht Rock Revue – PRIMETIME Presented by CANN

• What: Yacht Rock Revue is bringing their feel-good, soft rock tribute sound to Birmingham for a night of pure nostalgia and easy vibes. Settle in for a laid-back show packed with late ’70s and early ’80s hits that are perfect for singing along.
• When: Thurs, May 7 | 8PM
• Where: Avondale Brewing Co
• Cost: $40+
• Details

20. Classics in Hueytown Park Car Show

• What: Roll up to this full day featuring classic rides and custom builds, including everything from Jeeps and Mustangs to Corvettes, trucks and motorcycles. You’ll also get to connect with local car clubs and see which ride takes home Best in Show in a variety of categories.
• When: Sat, May 9 | 10AM–2PM
• Where: Hueytown City Park
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

21. Alabama

• What: Country icons Alabama hit the stage at the Coca-Cola Amphitheater on May 9, bringing a setlist packed with decades of fan-favorite hits to one of Birmingham’s newest music venues.
• When: Sat, May 9 | 7PM
• Where: Coca-Cola Amphitheater
• Details

22. Pelham Palooza

• What: Gather the fam for this must-attend event featuring a full day of live music, food trucks, local vendors and family-friendly fun.
• When: Sat, May 16 | 10AM–3PM
• Where: Pelham City Park
• Cost: Free admission
• Details

23. Birmingham Folk Festival

• What: Enjoy a full day of independent music, arts and fun celebrating Birmingham’s diverse cultures and musical styles. Many of Birmingham’s cultural organizations collaborate to curate the lineup, so you’ll hear music spanning jazz, blues, zydeco, hip hop, bluegrass, gospel and even a Celtic-jazz hybrid.
• When: Sat, May 16 | 10AM-8PM
• Where: Avondale Park
• Cost: Free admission | Donations to local nonprofits requested
• Details

24. “& Juliet” presented by Broadway in Birmingham

• What: Created by an Emmy®-winning writer from “Schitt’s Creek,” this hilarious new musical flips the script on Shakespeare’s most famous romance, asking what happens if Juliet chooses her own ending—and her own second chance at love. Packed with a nonstop playlist of pop anthems you know and love, this feel-good comedy turns heartbreak into a high-energy celebration of independence, reinvention and starting over.
• When: Tues, May 19–Sun, May 24
• Where: BJCC Concert Hall
• Details

25. Rock the Bar 2026

• What: The Birmingham Bar Foundation is turning up the volume on May 21 with its annual fundraiser at Saturn. Expect live music from bands like The Elderly Brothers and The Painful Reminders, plus food, drinks and a lively crowd from across the legal community.
• Bonus: every ticket helps support the foundation’s philanthropic work—so you can party for a good cause.
• When: Thurs, May 21 | 5:30–9PM
• Where: Saturn
• Cost: Individual $60 | Student $40
• Details

26. Nate Bargatze: Big Dumb Eyes World Tour

• What: Get ready to laugh! Nate Bargatze brings his Big Dumb Eyes World Tour to Legacy Arena at the BJCC this May. Expect an easygoing night of laughs, relatable stories and clean, hilarious comedy. If you like stand-up that feels like hanging out with a really funny friend, this one’s an easy yes.
• When: Fri, May 29 | 7PM
• Where: Legacy Arena at the BJCC
• Cost: $48.50+
• Details | Tickets

27. Southern Soul Rising Stars

• What: Three of the genre’s hottest voices are coming together for one big night in Birmingham. Marcellus the Singer brings smooth, feel-good vocals, Fat Daddy turns up the energy and Mike Clark Jr. brings heartfelt, real-life storytelling through soul music. From slow jams to crowd favorites, expect a full night of nothing but Southern soul vibes.
• When: Sun, May 31 | 8PM
• Where: BJCC Theatre
• Cost: $56.75+
• Details | Tickets

Foodie events

28. Furnace Chicken Festival 2026

• What: Furnace Chicken Festival returns for its second year in the Magic City, and it’s going to be delicious! Dozens of food vendors are lining up to serve you, like Roll Cajun Boudin, Pollogoyo and Sauce & Suds Five Points. Along with great food, there will be art and retail vendors to discover, line dancing, a cornhole tournament, kids’ zone and so much more. A portion of the proceeds from ticket sales will go to Disability Rights & Resources, a local nonprofit that supports people with disabilities through advocacy + services.
• When: Sat, May 2 | 1–9PM
• Where: Sloss Furnaces
• Cost:
  • General admission: $15 + fees
  • VIP: $40 + fees | Include early access to the V94.9 Signature VIP Lounge + exclusive event swag
• Details

29. Birmingham Crawfest 2026 benefiting Coast Conservation Association

• What: Protect our coastal waters for future generations at this annual fundraiser. Back for its 44th year, the event includes an open bar, silent auction, raffles, live music by T.U.B. and a menu of boiled crawfish, shrimp and jambalaya.
• When: Thurs, May 7 | 5:30–9PM
• Where: Birmingham Zoo
• Cost: 
  • Individual: $80
  • Couple: $150
  • Youth ages 13–18: $50
  • Kids 12 and under: Free admission
• Details

30. Birmingham Taco Fest benefiting Bare Hands Inc

• What: Birmingham Taco Fest is back for its 9th year and it’s bringing together the city’s best taco and dessert vendors, live music, dancing and an art-filled market. This family-friendly, cultural celebration benefits Bare Hands Inc’s local arts programs and immersive cultural experiences.
• When: Sun, May 17 | 1–7PM
• Where: Sloss Furnaces
• Cost:
  • Early Entry: $40
  • Advance General Admission: $10
  • Day of General Admission: $15
  • Kids 12 and under: Free admission
• Details

Good cause events

31. The Bell Center Jr. Board’s Inaugural Derby Party

• What: Get in on the most exciting two minutes in sports with an afternoon of cocktails, bourbon tastings, derby-inspired bites and a standout hat contest—all for a great cause. Hosted by The Bell Center’s Junior Board, this upbeat event features a silent auction, games and lots of chances to sip and socialize. Proceeds support early intervention programs at The Bell Center for Early Intervention Programs.
• When: May 2 | 4–7PM
• Where: B&A Warehouse
• Cost: Individual $50 | VIP Individual $125
  • Bonus: Mention The Bell Center Derby Party at checkout at Gus Mayer at The Summit—10% of proceeds will go to The Bell Center.
• Details

32. Puppy Palooza benefiting Greater Birmingham Humane Society

• What: Puppy Palooza benefiting the Greater Birmingham Humane Society brings tail-wagging fun to Lane Park in Mountain Brook on May 2. The day will be filled with live music, a Fido marketplace, kids’ activities, a K9 splash zone, giveaways and more for the whole family. Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome!
• When: Sat, May 2 | 10AM–2PM
• Where: Lane Park
• Cost: Free admission | Donations requested
• Details

33. Birmingham AIDS Outreach (BAO) Arty Party 2026

• What: Enjoy a lively afternoon of art, community and giving back with 100% of proceeds supporting Birmingham AIDS Outreach. Arty Party features artist Alice Searcy, food, drinks and a a live and silent auction.
• When: Sun, May 3 | 3–6PM
• Where: B&A Warehouse
• Cost: $55
• Details

34. 2026 Birmingham Kidney Walk & Run

• What: Join the Alabama Kidney Foundation for a day of giving back and supporting local kidney patients in need. On May 9, head to the track at Spain Park High School to help raise funds for this important cause.
• When: Sat, May 9
  • Registration: 8:30AM
  • Ceremony begins: 9:15AM
• Where: Spain Park High School track
• Cost: Free to walk | Considering joining a team or donating to show your support
• Details

35. Give Back Night for Woodlawn Community Table

• What: Head to Rojo on Highland Ave in Birmingham for a Giveback Night where great food and drinks support an even greater cause. A portion of the evening’s sales will benefit Woodlawn Community Table, helping provide access to healthy food and strengthen community connections.
• When: Tues, May 12 | 5–10PM
• Where: Rojo
• Cost: Free admission | 10% of all sales will be donated directly to Woodlawn Community Table
• Details

36. A.G. Gaston Boys & Girls Clubs 60th Anniversary Dinner with Jalen Hurts

• What: Celebrate 60 years of the A.G. Gaston Boys & Girls Club shaping young lives in Birmingham at this special anniversary dinner featuring powerful stories of resilience, growth and impact. The evening also includes a fireside chat with NFL quarterback Jalen Hurts, connecting legacy leadership with today’s role models and the ongoing “Gaston Blueprint” for future generations.
• When: May 14 | Reception 6PM I Program 7PM
• Where: Renaissance Ross Bridge Golf Resort & Spa
• Details

37. Birmingham VA 16th Annual Walk & Roll VA2K

• What: Give back and get moving at the 16th Annual VA2K Walk & Roll. It will be a morning of movement, live music, food trucks and group line dancing, while supporting local veterans in need. Bring a donation for the Homeless Veterans Program (toiletries, household essentials, clothing or other requested items) and help support those who served.
• When: Wed, May 20 | 9AM–1PM
• Where: Birmingham VA Clinic
• Cost: Free to walk
• Details

38. Redemptive Cycles Community Dinner

• What: Hang out with Birmingham’s cycling community at this laid-back potluck-style meal filled with good conversation and connection with fellow riders. It’s all in support of Redemptive Cycles, so bring a dish, meet new people and enjoy a night built around bikes and community.
• When: Sun, May 31 | 7PM
• Where: Redemptive Cycles
• Cost: Bring a dish to share: $5 | No dish: $15
• Details

Nature events

39. ‘Tails in the Trails: Dinos After Dark

• What: The Birmingham Zoo’s Junior Board is turning ‘Tails in the Trails into a full-on dino takeover with cocktails, local bites, music, animal encounters and a silent auction, all surrounded by life-size dinosaurs from the exciting exhibit Dino Safari. Sip tasty drinks under a 35-foot Brachiosaurus, hang with the T. rex family and hop on the Red Diamond Express for even more prehistoric action. This unique fundraiser benefits Carlito’s Casa, the zoo’s Giant Anteater’s habitat. *Must be 21+ to attend.
• When: Fri, May 8 | 6–9PM
• Where: Birmingham Zoo
• Cost:
  • Event entry: $50 per person | $95 per couple
• Unlimited drinks wristband with entry: $70 per person | $135 per couple
• Details

40. East Lake Park Tree Maintenance 

• What: Help maintain East Lake Park’s trees by pruning, mulching and weeding at this community give-back event. Wear long pants, clothes you don’t mind getting dirty + closed-toed shoes, and bring essentials like water, sunscreen and bug spray.
• When: Sat, May 16 | 9–11AM
• Where: East Lake Park
• Cost: Free 
• Details

41. 13th Annual Darter Fest

• What: Join the Alabama Environmental Council (AEC) for the 13th annual Darter Fest. This special day of family-friendly festivities includes live music, food + drinks, kids’ activities and more. Your support helps the AEC’s watershed education program for Birmingham City Schools, with particular emphasis on the Watercress Darter—a tiny fish unique to Birmingham that needs our help! Check out our YouTube video to learn all about this special creature.
• When: Sun, May 31 | 12–5PM
• Where: Cahaba Brewing Co
• Cost:
  • General Admission: $20
  • VIP: $60 (Includes access to a private lounge with complimentary food, drinks and preferred access to the music stage.
  • Kids (ages 12 and under): Free
• Details

Sporting events

42. Regions Tradition

• What: Don’t miss the final three days of Regions Tradition—one of Alabama’s biggest sporting events held annually at the Greystone Golf & Country Club. This premier senior major golf championship on the PGA Tour Champions features golf legends and raises millions for local charities, like Children’s of Alabama. See 4 ways Regions Tradition has real-life impacts in Birmingham.
• When: Wed, April 29–Sun, May 3 | Time varies by day/competition
• Where: Greystone Golf & Country Club
• Cost: $33.91+
• Details

43. Birmingham Legion FC vs Miami FC 

• What: Get ready to scream GOAL! The Birmingham Legion competes against Miami on May 7 and it’s sure to be a must-see game.
• When: Thurs, May 7 | 7PM
• Where: Protective Stadium
• Cost: Varies by seat
• Details

44. FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola

• What: Birmingham, we’re in our soccer era! The city just unveiled the nation’s first FIFA Arena at Railroad Park, and it’s all part of the build-up to the FIFA World Cup 2026™. On Thursday, May 7, the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy Tour by Coca-Cola is doing something cool to celebrate—a chance to see the iconic gold trophy up close!
• When: Thurs, May 7 I 2–6PM
• Where: Protective Stadium
• Cost: Register to get your tickets now
• Details

45. Birmingham Barons at Regions Field

• What: Head to Regions Field to cheer on the Birmingham Barons as they take on the Rocket City Trash Pandas and Pensacola. Be sure to wear your Barons gear to show your home team support and grab a hotdog or two during the game.
• When:
  • Birmingham Barons vs Rocket City Trash Pandas:
    • Tues, May 12 | 6PM
    • Wed, May 13 | 11AM
    • Thurs, May 14 + Fri, May 15 | 7PM
    • Sat, May 16 | 6:30PM
    • Sun, May 17 | 2:05PM
  • Birmingham Barons vs Pensacola:
    • Tues, May 26 | 7PM
    • Wed, May 27 | 12:30PM
    • Thurs, May 28 + Fri, May 29 | 7PM
    • Sat, May 30 | 6:30PM
    • Sun, May 31 | 2:05PM
• Where: Regions Field
• Cost: Varies by seat
• Details

46. Easterseals of the Birmingham Area Golf Tournament

• What: Get your golf on while supporting a great cause at the Easterseals of the Birmingham Area Golf Tournament. Participants will receive a Tito’s screwdriver at check-in, lunch provided by Taco Mama, a swag bag and on-course contests with the chance to win exciting prizes. Don’t want to golf, but still want to cheer on those who do? Grab a spectators pass and score the same perks as the golfers (except lunch!). Food options will also be available on site for purchase.
• When: Sat, May 16
  • Check in: 7:30-8:45AM | Shotgun Start: 9AM
• Where: Highland Park Golf Course
• Cost: 
  • Golf Team of 4: $650
  • Spectator Pass (new!): $25
• Details

47. Birmingham Stallions at Protective Stadium

• What: Can’t get enough of the Birmingham Stallions? See them swish, dunk and score when they challenge the Dallas Renegades, Columbus Aviators and Houston Gamblers. Wear your favorite Stallions jersey and a big foam finger and show your love for the Magic City’s home team.
• When: 
  • Birmingham Stallions vs Dallas Renegades: May 9 at 7PM
  • Birmingham Stallions vs Columbus Aviators: May 17 at 12PM
  • Birmingham Stallions vs Houston Gamblers: May 30 at 2PM
• Where: Protective Stadium
• Cost: Varies by seat
• Details

BONUS EVENT: Daikin Festival 2026

• What: Feeling like a quick road trip? Check out the Daikin Festival—a free Japanese community event just 1.5 hours from Birmingham in Decatur. Here are a few things to expect:
  • Performances from the Daikin’s Taiko Force drummers
  • Live music from classic rock band Natchez Trace + the Calhoun Community College Show Band
  • Jugglers, acrobats, plate spinners + a magician
  • Japanese + American food
  • Art demos, hands-on learning + kids’ activities
  • Fireworks
• When: Fri, May 1 | 6:30–9PM
• Where: Point Mallard Park, Decatur
• Cost: Free, compliments of Daikin America, Inc. (This includes admission, food + all other festival activities!)
• Details

Did we miss an event? Add it to our free calendar now.