May preview: Festivals, live shows, and can’t-miss moments across the region

May keeps the momentum going with high-energy festivals, outdoor celebrations, live music, and community events across the region. 

From waterfront traditions and street fairs to major performances and cultural showcases, the calendar is packed from start to finish. Wherever you’re headed, Link, Sounder, and ST Express can get you there.

April 27 – May 3 

• Dawgs After Dark Spring Football Game – Husky Stadium, Seattle  
  Husky football under the lights, complete with fan activations, entertainment, and a first look at next season’s squad. 

• 2026 Windermere Party on the Cut – Montlake Cut, Seattle 
  A waterfront pre-party filled with music, food, and prime views ahead of race day. 

• Windermere Cup 2026 – Montlake Cut, Seattle 
  International rowing crews race through the Montlake Cut in one of Seattle’s most iconic spring spectacles. 

• Cinco de Mayo Festival – El Centro de la Raza, Seattle 
  A vibrant celebration of culture featuring traditional dance, live music, and authentic cuisine. 

• Charlie Puth – WAMU Theater, Seattle 
  A hit-packed set showcasing his signature vocals, piano skills, and chart-dominating pop tracks. 

• The Brook & The Bluff – Showbox SoDo, Seattle 
  Smooth harmonies and laid-back indie grooves perfect for a feel-good night out. 

• Seattle Black Film Festival – Langston Huges Performing Arts Institute, Seattle 
  A curated lineup spotlighting bold, diverse voices and stories from Black filmmakers around the world. 

• Puyallup RV Show – Washington State Fair Events Center 
  Step inside the latest RV models and discover everything you need for your next road trip adventure. 

• Tacoma City Marathon – Tacoma 
  A scenic course winding through Tacoma’s waterfront and neighborhoods 

May 4 – 10 

• Edmonds Spring Fest – Frances Anderson Center, Edmonds 
  A community celebration with artisan vendors, local eats, and family-friendly entertainment. 

• Edmonds Jazz Connection – Downtown Edmonds 
  Student jazz bands from across the region take the stage in a showcase of emerging talent. 

• DroneArt Show – Marymoor Park, Redmond 
  Hundreds of synchronized drones light up the night sky in a choreographed fusion of technology and music. 

• Beat the Bridge – Husky Stadium, Seattle 
  Race against the rising University Bridge in this unique Seattle running tradition. 

• Pike Place Market Flower Festival – Pike Place Market, Seattle 
  Farm-fresh bouquets, vibrant stalls, and the unofficial kickoff to flower season in the city. 

• Seattle Art Book Fair – Washington Hall, Seattle 
  Independent publishers, artists, and designers gather to celebrate the art of the printed page. 

• Step Afrika! – Federal Way Performing Arts Center, Federal Way 
  A high-energy performance blending percussive dance, storytelling, and African American traditions. 

• BonsaiFest! – Pacific Bonsai Museum, Federal Way 
  Intricately shaped trees, expert demonstrations, and a peaceful dive into the art of bonsai. 

• Sip Puyallup – Downtown Puyallup 
  Sample regional wines, beers, and spirits while exploring a lively tasting event atmosphere. 

May 11 – 17 

• U District Street Fair – U District, Seattle 
  15 block-long arts and crafts fair that takes over University Way (a.k.a. “The Ave”).  

• Baby Keem – WAMU Theater, Seattle  
  A dynamic live show with bass-heavy beats and high energy. 

• YUNGBLUD – WAMU Theater 
  An explosive mix of punk and pop.  

• Jazz Jam – The RoadHouse, SeaTac 
  A laid-back evening of live jazz and local talent.  

• GeekCraft Expo – Tacoma Armory  
  A marketplace packed with handmade, fandom-inspired goods from independent creators. 

• Rainier Dragon Boat Festival – Tacoma 
  Teams paddle in sync across the water in a colorful display of culture, competition, and teamwork. 

May 18 – 24 

• UW Night Market – Red Square, Seattle 
  Street food, student vendors, and live performances. 

• Alt Bloom – Baba Yaga, Seattle 
  A blend of indie pop, alt-rock, and storytelling. 

• Claypool Gold – Marymoor Park, Redmond 
  A standout live performance blending funk, rock and experimental sounds.  

May 25 – 31 

• Hot Wheels Monster Trucks Live – Angel of the Winds Arena, Everett 
  Massive trucks, gravity-defying stunts, and high-speed action built for all ages. 

• Flying Wheels Summer Century 2026 – Marymoor Park, Redmond 
  Choose your distance and ride scenic routes through the Eastside in this annual cycling event. 

• Bite of Greece – Capitol Hill, Seattle 
  Savor classic Greek dishes while enjoying traditional music, dancing, and cultural performances. 

• Blue Man Group – The Paramount Theatre, Seattle 
  A one-of-a-kind show combining percussion, comedy, and immersive visual effects. 

• Seattle Asian American Film Festival – Multiple Seattle Locations  
  A platform for Asian American and Pacific Islander storytellers across genres and generations. 

• Mike Sherm – Showbox SoDo, Seattle 
  A fast-rising act bringing an energetic, crowd-driven performance style. 

• Kent International Film Festival – ShoWare Center, Kent 
  A global mix of films, from indie shorts to international features. 

• Arts Explosion 2026 – Federal Way Performing Arts & Event Center, Federal Way 
  A multi-day showcase of local artists and performers.  

• Stamp & Scrapbook Expo – Washington State Fairgrounds, Puyallup 
  Workshops, supplies, and inspiration for paper craft enthusiasts of all levels.