Things to do in May

Get ready for a month full of fun events and those perfect sunny vibes!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Plan ahead. Buy tickets, sign up online, or do a little research before attending these events and activities.

S'mores on the Shore
When: May 2, 9, 16
Where: Aurora Reservoir | Directions

S'mores on the Shore is back for the 2025 season! Gather your friends or bring the family for fun on the Aurora Reservoir shore to roast s'mores complete with your own s’mores’ materials, chairs, and firepits! This fun outing is perfect to enjoy the beach-Colorado style!

Prehistoric Aurora
When: Through April 5th, 2026
Where: Aurora History Museum | Directions

Step back in time at the Aurora History Museum’s new exhibit, Prehistoric Aurora, now open through April 5, 2026. This immersive experience explores the city’s deep-time story, featuring fossils like Littleton’s T-Rex and Thornton’s Torosaurus, and showcasing how Aurora’s landscape and life forms evolved over millions of years. Developed in collaboration with the Denver Museum of Nature & Science, the University of Colorado Museum of Natural History, Dinosaur Ridge, scientists, and local residents, the exhibit offers a captivating journey through geologic time. ​

Colorado Remembers - Honoring the WWII Generation
When: May 24
Where: Colorado Freedom Memorial | Directions

Join the City of Aurora and the Colorado Freedom Memorial Foundation in commemorating the 12th anniversary of the Colorado Freedom Memorial, honoring the brave Coloradans who have served our country. Explore an array of military artifacts, participate in the Remembrance Ceremony, and enjoy entertainment for a memorable experience! 

Kentucky Derby Celebration 
When: May 3
Where: Southlands | Directions

Don your fancy hats and get dressed in your Derby best! Celebrate the Kentucky Derby at Aurora’s largest viewing party, complete with fun activities, Mint Juleps, the Run for the Roses, and more.

Southlands Farmer's Market
When: May 10 - 31
Where: Southlands | Directions

Mark the arrival of Spring with a trip to Southland’s Annual Farmer’s Market. Shop local with fresh produce, handmade artisan goods, and more!

Chalk Lines and Vines
When: May 3 - 4
Where: Arapahoe County Fairgrounds | Directions

Check out Arapahoe County’s Annual Chalk Lines and Vines event to begin your spring celebrations. Gather your friends to enjoy refreshing wine samples sourced from Colorado wineries and watch captivating chalk art displays and an array of food trucks.

Havana Night Market 
When: May 10 - 31
Where: Leezakaya | Directions

Get ready to delight in the tastes of spring and summer as a cherished market makes its return! Head to Aurora's top street to experience the city's rich food culture! Embark on a culinary journey through Aurora’s finest foodie block, tasting delicious global dishes from local vendors at Havana’s Night Market. Discover a variety of unique artisanal creations and more, bringing an extra spark to your summer evenings. 

May dates begin May 10 - 31. Happening every Saturday through September.

Gaylord Hotels Present: DC Summer
When: May 24th- September 1st
Where: Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center | Directions

Get ready for an action-packed summer as DC Summer lands at Gaylord Rockie from May 24 to September 1, 2025! In partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, this first-of-its-kind event lets guests enter the world of DC Super Heroes and Super-Villains with themed scavenger hunts, character dining, poolside movie nights, and more. With free and ticketed experiences, DC Summer offers a heroic adventure for fans of all ages.

Funny Girl
When: May 16 - 18
Where: The People's Building | Directions

A dazzling musical that tells the inspiring story of Fanny Brice, a talented and unconventional woman who rises from humble beginnings to become one of Broadway’s brightest stars. Tickets here.

Torch Song
When: May 30 - June 29th 
Where: Vintage Theatre | Directions

A two-act revival of Harvey Fierstein’s award-winning Torch Song Trilogy – the life of Arnold Beckoff, a torch song-singing Jewish drag queen living in New York City, is dramatized over the span of the late 1970s and 1980s. Tickets here.

Spring Art Show, "Steeped in Creativity"
When: May 10th
Where: Aloft Denver Airport at Gateway Park | Directions

Experience the Spring Art Show, "Steeped in Creativity!" This vibrant spring art show is perfect for a night out celebrating art and our local talent. Explore stunning works and enjoy meeting the creatives behind them.

Tropica Magica: Para Bailar y Tripiar Tour
When: May 14th
Where: Manos Sagrados | Directions

Known for their unique blend of psychedelic cumbia and punk rock, the Pacheco brothers bring the vibrant energy of East L.A.'s backyard parties to the stage. Tickets here.

Things to Do All Month

The following will be open throughout May, making it easy to plan your laid-back adventures in Aurora.

Cheers Aurora!
When: Through June 15
Where: Breweries vary

Explore the finest breweries in Aurora from March 17 - June 15, collecting unique stamps and enjoying exclusive craft beverages along the way. Cheers Aurora is designed for both locals and visitors who have a passion for discovering new flavors and supporting local brewers. With a collectible pint glass and a custom map, you'll embark on a city-wide journey, savoring the best brews and ciders Aurora has to offer. LEARN MORE!

First Fridays at Stanley
When: May 2 - July 4
Where: Stanley Marketplace | Directions

Check out First Fridays at Stanley Marketplace, where you can celebrate all things local! Bring your friends and discover exciting art pieces and works, plus indulge in all the late-night shopping fun at Stanley retailers! Find more First Friday dates here!

Wright's Carnival 
When: April 25 - May 11
Where: Town Center at Aurora | Directions

As the weather heats, it’s time for the ultimate seasonal fun: carnivals and fairs! Head to the Town Center at Aurora for an unforgettable experience at Wright's Carnival. Indulge in classic treats like cotton candy and corn dogs, and enjoy thrilling rides and exciting carnival games for a fantastic evening of family fun.

Enjoy Sunday Brunch

Brunch is pure bliss. It's a lazy, lingering time to get your fill of sweet or savory treats, have an extra cup of joe, or maybe even indulge in a mimosa or Bloody Mary without rushing anywhere. As the temperatures get warmer, consider dining outside at one of our many must-visit brunch spots. Read more.

Play a Round of Golf 

With more than 300 days of sunshine annually, Aurora is a golfer's paradise. While most courses are playable year-round, April brings the warmer temperatures that make golfing outdoors more enjoyable. Discover Aurora's courses and choose your adventure. Here's a full description of the courses to try in the city.

LOOKING FOR MORE THINGS TO DO? CLICK HERE TO CHECK OUT THE VISIT AURORA EVENTS PAGE!