There are so many things to celebrate throughout the month of May — including Cinco de Mayo, Mother’s Day, and of course, Memorial Day weekend. Take a look at the many events and activities happening in Fort Lauderdale throughout the month of May, whether you want to dance your heart out to ’80s music or your idea of a party is tasting a new varietal of wine. Mark your calendars for these exciting events happening in the lively city of Fort Lauderdale this May!
NSU Art Museum’s Art of Wine and Food Series
Thursday, May 3 | 6–8 p.m. | NSU Art Museum
Explore the art of wine and food at the art museum during this month’s installation of the Art of Wine and Food Series. Tracy Shahtaheri from Delicato Family Vineyards will lead guests on a journey sampling four great varietals of wine paired with small bites. Arrive at 5:30 p.m. to enjoy a docent-led highlights tour of museum exhibitions. This event costs $40 per person or $25 for members at Patron level and above. RSVP here in advance or by calling 954.262.0258.
The Fifth Annual Kentucky Derby Party
Saturday, May 5 | 4–7 p.m. | Good Spirits
Run for the Rosé with the Junior League of Greater Fort Lauderdale at their 5th Annual Kentucky Derby Party at Good Spirits. This event is open to the public and tickets cost $35, which includes your choice of two drinks, Derby-inspired appetizers, a raffle, and a Derby hat contest. Register in advance for “The Most Exciting Two Minutes In Sports!”
American Cancer Society Celebration Gala
Saturday, May 5 | 6:30 p.m. | Fort Lauderdale Marriott Harbor Beach Resort & Spa
The American Cancer Society Celebration Gala is a one-of-a-kind evening featuring great food, dancing, a spectacular auction, and much more. And more importantly, the event benefits the American Cancer Society, dedicated to saving lives, celebrating lives, and leading the fight for a world without cancer. Join in the celebration and fundraising for this wonderful organization. Tickets costs $300 per person or $5,000 for a VIP table of 12.
Fort Lauderdale Air Show
Saturday, May 5–Sunday, May 6 | 12 p.m. | Hugh Taylor Birch State Park
This year, the annual Fort Lauderdale Air Show will be headlined by the infamous U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. This spectacular air demonstration is a combination of formation flying and solo routines. The highly specialized pilots perform approximately 40 maneuvers in a single demonstration, which lasts 60 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes for the ground show before takeoff. Tickets for the Fort Lauderdale Air Show are $29.75 for adults and $14.75 for children, or $179 for special Flight Line Club VIP seating.
10th Annual 100 Outstanding Women of Broward County
Thursday, May 10 | 5:30–11 p.m. | Signature Grand, Davie
Head to the Signature Grand in nearby Davie for an evening of celebration and inspiration. The Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County are pleased to present the 10th Annual 100 Outstanding Women of Broward County event. This dinner will bring the community together to recognize and celebrate how far women have come in leadership roles in the business, community, and philanthropic fields. Individual tickets cost $125 or $185 for a VIP ticket. You may also purchase a table for 8 for $1,000 or a VIP table for 8 for $1,500. Each ticket includes access to the reception, cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a silent auction, a recognition program, a fashion show, and a live auction.
Riverwalk ’80s Dance Party
Friday, May 11 | 7–10 p.m. | Esplanade Park
Over the past three decades, Riverwalk Fort Lauderdale has overseen multiple projects that have created, improved, extended and activated the Riverwalk linear park, a vibrant community connected by the New River. In celebration of Riverwalk’s 30th anniversary, they are hosting an ’80s Dance Party sponsored by FSYM Architects & Planners. The evening will include lots of dancing to your favorite ’80s tunes, ’80s cocktails and beer, light bites and sweet treats. Purchase your tickets for $50 in advance!
The Pirate Festival
Saturday, May 12 | 11 a.m.–7 p.m. | Esplanade Park
The Rotary Club of Fort Lauderdale is hosting a free pirate-themed event with something for everyone. The Pirate Festival will feature parades, a concert, a street festival, multiple entertainment stages, a costume contest, a children’s area, raft and paddleboard races, and much more! The Rotary Club has over 150 members coming together to grow and serve the community in Fort Lauderdale.
Shakespeare: Music and the Bard
Saturday, May 12 | 7:30 p.m. | All Saints Episcopal Church
Seraphic Fire is making a stop in Fort Lauderdale for their regional tour presenting Shakespeare: Music and the Bard. Actress Siobhan Doherty and Seraphic Fire explore the magnificent canon of settings based on William Shakespeare’s timeless words. Seraphic Fire brings top ensemble singers and instrumentalists from around the country to perform repertoire ranging from Gregorian chant and Baroque masterpieces to Mahler and newly commissioned works by this country’s leading composers. Purchase tickets in advance for $50 each.
Mother’s Day Brunch at Flamingo Gardens
Sunday, May 13 | 10 a.m.–1:45 p.m. | Flamingo Gardens, Davie
Treat mom to a special Mother’s Day brunch amidst flora and fauna benefiting Flamingo Gardens. Dine al fresco amidst the gardens while enjoying a live music serenade. After the unlimited brunch buffet, visit the Wray botanical collection and Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary. Tickets, which include admission to the gardens, must be purchased in advance.
Great American Beach Party
Saturday, May 26 | 10 a.m.–8:30 p.m. | Fort Lauderdale Beach
Kick off the unofficial start to summer and Memorial Day weekend at the 8th Annual Great American Beach Party on Fort Lauderdale Beach! This free all-day event will feature music, live performances, and activities for the whole family, including a kids’ zone, a sand castle contest, an art show, and a free movie showing on the beach. Head to Fort Lauderdale Beach near the intersection of Las Olas Boulevard and A1A for a day filled with endless summertime fun.
Happy May!
What other events are you attending this May? We’d love to know how you’re celebrating this month in Fort Lauderdale.