Kentucky Derby, Memorial Day Weekend, Indy 500, Cinco de Mayo & JazzFest
The month of May is one so full of fun and lively events it’s impossible to identify one as the signature happening of the month.
Starting with the Kentucky Derby and wrapping up with not one but two whopping events – Memorial Day Weekend and the Indianapolis 500, May has several days that make it one of the best months for partying and nightlife.
This is a rundown of each event, with 2019 dates and links to party guides.
• 50th Anniversary New Orleans Jazzfest, Week 2
May 3-5
The music plays on at one of the country’s top festivals. Originally, the Rollins Stones were signed to open the final four days, but after they canceled when Mick Jagger had a health issue – and then replacement Fleetwood Mac had to cancel as well – but Jazzfest is a party regardless of what bands are playing at it.
Link: JazzFest Survival Guide
• 145th Kentucky Derby
May 4
A horse race version of the Indy 500, the Run For The Roses is a high society, bourbon-sipping, Mint Julep consuming event for some and an all out “you can’t drink all day if you don’t start in the morning” infield party scene.
Link: The Ultimate Kentucky Derby Guide
• Cinco de Mayo
Sunday, May 5
Put on your sombrero and run to the nearest cantina for a day (and night!?) of tequila slamming and margaritas. Cinco de Mayo is not Mexican Independence Day but rather something for gringos to celebrate, primarily in border states. It’s a big deal in Southern California, Arizona and Texas.
Link: Top Cinco de Mayo History & Photos
• 103rd Indy 500
May 26
The 103rd running is America’s great IndyCar race and. it’s also a wild party in the infield, known as “the Snakepit.” DJs, bands and a crowd who gets the green light to cut loose make this one of America’s great annual party scenes.
Link: Indy 500 Ultimate Guide
Memorial Day Weekend 2019
May 25-27
What better way to cap the month of May than with an three-day American holiday. Memorial Day was set up to honor this country’s veterans and there are certainly a lot of recognitions of American servicemen, but for most people it’s a time to go to local festivals with bands and beer gardens, trips to places like Las Vegas and Lake Travis to party, backyard BBQ parties and the Brickyard.
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