Salt Lake City comes alive in May 2025 with a dazzling array of events that celebrate art, culture, food, music, and community. From family-friendly festivals to thought-provoking exhibitions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this spring. Here’s a curated list of the top events happening in Salt Lake City this May, perfect for locals and visitors alike.
1. Spring Festival 2025 (April 10 – May 10)
Location: Cross E Ranch
Details: Kick off May with the final days of the Spring Festival at Cross E Ranch, where you can soak up the sunshine and celebrate the season. Meet adorable baby animals, explore AgVenture Alley, and indulge in delicious food and treats. This family-friendly event is perfect for creating lasting memories with loved ones. Don’t miss out before it wraps up on May 10!
2. “Freedom of Expression: Artists Incarcerated” (April 3 – May 28)
Location: The George S. & Dolores Doré Eccles Gallery, SLCC South City Campus
Details: The Freedom of Expression exhibition, running through May 28, showcases large-scale paintings created by youth at the Salt Lake Valley Youth Center in collaboration with local muralists and SLCC faculty. Curated by James Walton and Dr. Anthony Nocella, the works explore themes of identity and expression, offering a unique perspective on art and incarceration. Free and open to the public, this is a must-see for art lovers and advocates of social justice.
3. 2025 NCECA Annual: True and Real (March 7 – May 31)
Location: Various venues, part of the NCECA conference
Details: Ceramics enthusiasts won’t want to miss the 2025 NCECA Annual exhibition, “True and Real,” on view through May 31. Curated by Judith S. Schwartz, this showcase features works by 40 artists that explore the human condition through clay. Addressing themes of authenticity in an era of technological upheaval, the exhibition highlights the enduring power of ceramic art. A thought-provoking experience for art aficionados.
4. Craft Lake City Makers Mart w/ Millcreek Common (April 16 – May 26)
Location: Public Market at Millcreek Common
Details: Shop local at the Craft Lake City Makers Mart, running through May 26. This vibrant market showcases Utah’s creative artisans with handcrafted goods, from jewelry to home decor. The Makers Mart Mixer on May 2 (6-8 p.m.) is a highlight, offering a chance to mingle with creators. Perfect for finding unique gifts or supporting the local maker community.
5. KaBLOOM! Bulbs & Blooms 2025 (March 15 – May 15)
Location: Red Butte Garden and Arboretum
Details: Catch the tail end of this stunning floral display through May 15, featuring over 590,000 blooming bulbs, including 250,000 daffodils. Wander paved paths or hike trails to witness nature’s explosion of color. With different bulbs peaking at various times, every visit to KaBLOOM! offers something new. Bring a camera and a picnic for a delightful spring outing.
6. Touching Grass (April 1 – May 2)
Location: Venue TBD (check NowPlayingUtah.com)
Details: This inspiring art exhibition, closing on May 2, celebrates Earth’s beauty through works that capture landscapes, wildlife, and ecosystems. A tribute to nature’s resilience, “Touching Grass” encourages reflection on our connection to the planet. Attend the free gallery reception on April 18 (6-9 p.m.) for a memorable evening of art and inspiration.
7. Wicked (April 16 – May 25)
Location: Eccles Theater
Details: Experience the magic of Wicked, the Broadway sensation, through May 25. This untold story of the Witches of Oz follows the unlikely friendship between Elphaba and Glinda, delivering a spellbinding mix of heart, humor, and unforgettable music. A perfect outing for theater fans looking for a magical escape.
8. ZooLuminate: Where the Wild Things Glow (March 28 – May 26)
Location: Hogle Zoo
Details: Illuminate your evenings at ZooLuminate, running select nights through May 26. This after-hours event features 80 larger-than-life light sculptures across four themed areas: savanna, jungle, alpine forest, and a glowing garden. Enjoy dinner at The Beastro and explore under the stars for a dazzling family adventure.
9. Mother’s Day Tea at Grand America (May 2 – May 11)
Location: Lobby Lounge, Grand America
Details: Treat Mom to an elegant Mother’s Day Afternoon Tea from May 2-11, with seatings from 12:00 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. This special experience in the luxurious Lobby Lounge is perfect for celebrating the incredible women in your life. Reservations are required, so book early!
10. Waitress (May 2 – May 17)
Location: Simmons Pioneer Memorial Theatre
Details: Savor the Utah premiere of Waitress at Pioneer Theatre Company through May 17. This heartfelt musical, with songs by Sara Bareilles, follows Jenna, a pie chef chasing a better life through a baking contest. Nominated for four Tony Awards, it’s a sweet and uplifting story that’s sure to warm your heart.
11. Springfest (May 3)
Location: Utah Cultural Celebration Center
Details: Celebrate community at Springfest on May 3 from 4-7 p.m. This free, family-friendly festival features music, crafts, food, and activities, plus art exhibits and info booths from West Valley City. A vibrant way to connect with neighbors and welcome spring.
12. Cinco de Mayo Fiesta 2025 (May 3)
Location: Millcreek Common
Details: Join the fun at the Cinco de Mayo Fiesta on May 3 from 4-10 p.m. Enjoy free skating, live music, dancing, loteria games, giant piñatas, and authentic Mexican cuisine like tacos and aguas frescas. A lively celebration of culture and community for all ages.
13. Utah Food Festival 2025 (May 3-4)
Location: Natural History Museum of Utah at the Rio Tinto Center
Details: Foodies, rejoice! The Utah Food Festival on May 3-4 celebrates the region’s culinary heritage with tastings, workshops, and presentations. Sample local artisan foods and learn about food history. Included with museum admission (free for members), but reserve tickets early as this popular event sells out.
14. Cinco De Mayo Festival (May 5)
Location: Draper City
Details: Keep the Cinco de Mayo celebrations going with Draper City’s free festival on May 5 from 6-8 p.m. Packed with family-friendly activities, this event offers a fun way to honor Mexican culture and enjoy a spring evening.
15. Queer Food Festival 2025 (May 9)
Location: Mountain West Cider
Details: Savor community and flavor at the Queer Food Festival on May 9. Hosted by the Utah LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce, this event features culinary creations, craft cocktails, and fabulous entertainment from local LGBTQ+ and ally-owned businesses. Tickets sell out fast, so grab yours early for a night of queer foodie fun.
16. Mother’s Day Brunch at Grand America (May 10-11)
Location: Laurel Brasserie & Bar, Grand America
Details: Make Mother’s Day unforgettable with a decadent brunch at the Grand America on May 10-11, with seatings from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. This luxurious experience is the perfect way to pamper Mom. Reservations are required.
17. Spring Plant Sale & Fundraiser (May 10)
Location: Red Butte Garden
Details: Get your garden ready at the Spring Plant Sale on May 10 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Shop a vast selection of herbs, heirloom vegetables, native plants, succulents, and more, many grown locally or by Red Butte staff. Support the garden while finding the perfect plants for your space. Bring a cart or wagon for easy shopping!
18. Kilby Block Party 2025 (May 15-18)
Location: Utah State Fairpark
Details: Music lovers, mark your calendars for the Kilby Block Party from May 15-18, celebrating 26 years of Kilby Court. Headliners include New Order, Justice, Weezer, and Beach House, with acts like TV on the Radio, Devo, and St. Vincent. This all-ages festival features an expanded footprint, upgraded amenities, and four days of unforgettable performances.
19. Queer Spectra Arts Festival 2025: Flux & Fracture (May 15-17)
Location: TBD (check NowPlayingUtah.com)
Details: Celebrate queer creativity at the Queer Spectra Arts Festival from May 15-17. This free event invites artists and community members to explore themes of expansiveness and possibility through performances, workshops, and art. A vibrant space for connection and inspiration.
20. Living Traditions Festival (May 16-18)
Location: TBD (check NowPlayingUtah.com)
Details: Immerse yourself in Salt Lake City’s diversity at the Living Traditions Festival from May 16-18. This free event showcases over 90 cultures through music, dance, crafts, and food, fostering community bonds and celebrating shared humanity. A highlight of the spring season.
21. Sistema Utah “Classic Rock” Spring Concert (May 16)
Location: West Valley 2 campus, Sistema Utah
Details: Rock out with 200 students from Sistema Utah on May 16 at 6 p.m. as they perform a “Classic Rock” concert featuring 17 instruments. The grand finale includes a children’s orchestra with guest artists String FX. Attend in person (limited seating) or watch the livestream for a musical treat.
22. Harry Potter: The Exhibition (May 24 – September 1)
Location: The Shops at South Town, Sandy
Details: Starting May 24, step into the wizarding world with Harry Potter: The Exhibition. This interactive experience features original props, costumes, and activities like Quidditch and potion-making. Perfect for fans of all ages to explore the magic of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts.
23. Memorial Day Breakfast & Ceremony (May 26)
Location: Main Street Park & Herriman City Cemetery
Details: Honor fallen heroes on May 26 with a community breakfast ($10, 7-11 a.m.) at Main Street Park, followed by a ceremony at Herriman City Cemetery at 9 a.m. Expect patriotic music, a speaker, a 21-gun salute, and “Taps” to commemorate those who made the ultimate sacrifice.
24. Ready to Hatch 2025 (May 29)
Location: Tracy Aviary
Details: Enjoy a kid-free evening at Ready to Hatch, a garden party supporting Tracy Aviary Conservation. Sip cocktails, savor local food, bid in a silent auction, and meet birds up close in lush botanical gardens. Your ticket supports bird conservation and includes aviary admission. A perfect way to close out May!
Plan Your May in Salt Lake City
May 2025 in Salt Lake City offers an incredible mix of cultural, culinary, and artistic experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the vibrant blooms at Red Butte Garden, the theatrical brilliance of Wicked, or the community spirit of the Living Traditions Festival, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate spring.
