Experience Portland in May: A Month Full of Exciting Events and Unforgettable Moments
As spring blossoms into summer, Portland comes alive with an electrifying lineup of events that promise to delight, entertain, and inspire. Whether you're a music lover, sports fan, theater enthusiast, or someone seeking unique cultural experiences, May in Portland has something for everyone. Here's your ultimate guide to the must-see events happening throughout the city this month, all available at ticketsportland.org/may/.
Kick Off the Month with Spectacular Sports Action
Basketball fans won't want to miss the intense NBA Western Conference Semifinals at the Moda Center at the Rose Quarter. Portland Trail Blazers fans can look forward to home games starting on May 2nd. If the series extends, catch the excitement of Games 2 and 3 on May 4th and May 10th. The stakes rise as the team advances through the playoffs, with potential finals games scheduled for May 17th, 19th, 24th, 28th, and 29th. Be sure to check tickets for updates on dates and opponents, and experience the thrill of live basketball in Portland.
Music: From Indie to Iconic Performances
Music aficionados are spoiled with a diverse array of concerts across Portland venues. On May 6th, experience the dynamic sounds of Ford. at Holocene. For those who love indie and alternative, Dry Cleaning performs at Wonder Ballroom on May 17th. Fans of soulful melodies can enjoy Lucy Darling with the Oregon Symphony on May 9th. For a night of dance and energy, dance to DJ Mark Farina at The Melody Event Center on May 8th.
Electro-pop and experimental sounds come alive at Holocene with Mietze Conte on May 24th. And don't miss the vibrant performances of Yungblud at Moda Center on May 16th. For fans of tribute acts, check out Birth of the Cool celebrating Miles Davis, happening on May 24th.
Live Theater and Cultural Experiences
Portland's theater scene is thriving this May. The iconic Keller Auditorium hosts The Phantom of the Opera multiple dates from May 1st through May 10th. For a family-friendly adventure, experience Ballet of Lights: Sleeping Beauty at Alberta Rose Theatre on May 21st and 24th.
Comedy fans can enjoy stand-up shows at Helium Comedy Club with acts like Josh Wolf and Steph Tolev throughout the month. And for a night of immersive theater, don't miss The Jury Experience at Alberta Abbey on May 9th.
Music Festivals, Dance Parties, and Nightlife
Portland’s nightlife pulses with energy during May. Join the Goth community at Goth Prom at Holocene on May 28th. For electronic dance music fans, Flux Pavilion performs at The Den PDX on May 2nd, and a multitude of dance parties fill venues like Hawthorne Theatre and The Melody Event Center. Don’t miss the Decibel Magazine Tour featuring death metal bands at Hawthorne Theatre on May 16th.
For a more eclectic night, enjoy the Church of Hive: Goth-Industrial Darkwave Dance Party at Star Theater on May 17th. And if you’re into K-pop, the K-Pop Rave at The Den PDX on May 23rd offers a night of high-energy dance and community.
Arts, Crafts, and Unique Cultural Events
Art lovers can indulge in the Pancakes & Booze Art Show at Hawthorne Theatre on May 15th. Or experience the surreal at Can Can’s Carnival of Curiosities, a must-see event at Paris Theatre on multiple dates including May 1-3 and May 8-10, 16, 22-30.
For a night of immersive art and sensory experiences, visit Alberta Abbey for Ballet of Lights or see the stunning Ablaye Cissoko & Cyrille Brotto on May 5-6. The city’s vibrant art scene continues with performances from local bands, dance nights, and film screenings throughout the month.
More Events and Details
This is just a glimpse of what Portland offers in May. For a comprehensive list and to purchase tickets, visit www.ticketsportland.org/may/. Don’t miss out on experiencing the best of Portland this spring—mark your calendar, gather your friends, and enjoy an unforgettable month in this vibrant city!