Escape the heat with Whiskey, a Cosplay Festival and Restaurant Week
May brings the first real taste of summer in the Phoenix-Scottsdale area. The weather is still cool enough to explore nature trails and other desert attractions in the morning and early evening, but temperatures regularly settle into the mid-90s around mid-day. That means the pool is calling your name, along with festivals and other cooler events to beat the heat.
May Event Calendar
Carnival of Illusion
Head down to the Tempe Center for the Arts for “Magic, Mystery, and Ooooh La La.” Experience comedy and thrill at the Carnival of Illusion! The unique show is described as vaudeville-inspired with an international travel theme. The fun will be reoccurring on Saturdays throughout the month of May. Ticket prices vary by seat location, and they can be purchased here.
Cinco de Mayo Festival
This annual festival has been bringing culture and excitement to downtown Phoenix for more than 25 years. Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with live music, lucha libre, baile folklorico, authentic food, drinks, and more! Advanced tickets are $10, VIP tickets are $35, and “exclusivo lounge” tickets are $75; they will soon be available for purchase here.
Scottsdale Whiskey Festival
More than 20 different varieties of whiskey, bourbon and Scotch will be available to sample during this outdoor tasting event. Pours take place at Wasted Grain between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. with early entry for VIP ticketholders.
Arizona Restaurant Week
Save money and explore new dining spots during the spring edition of Arizona Restaurant Week. Prix fixe menus, ranging from $33 to $44, will be offered at more than 120 participating restaurants with the idea of “eating your way” through the entire state.
Phoenix Fan Fusion
Originally known as the Phoenix Cactus Comicon, Phoenix Fan Fusion is an expansive movie and comic book convention. Panels and autograph sessions feature some of your favorite actors from Star Wars, Star Trek, Harry Potter and more. Part of the fun is dressing up in costume yourself.
Things to Do in Phoenix in May
Havana Nights Classic Movies
Every Friday, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., The Scott Resort & Spa hosts vintage black-and-white movies at the Canal Club. Snack down on free Mexican street popcorn and order a drink while enjoying the film with a set of headphones. Shows begin at dusk.
Play a Round of Golf
Scottsdale is home to some of the most lavish and scenic golf courses in the United States. The sunny, could-free weather is ideal for playing a morning game at Troon North, Grayhawk or We-Ko-Pa.