Events

May is a busy time of year for events in Charlottesville and Albemarle County. With a vibrant performing arts scene, you'll be able to catch some big names (like Zach Bryan or Kevin Hart performing at John Paul Jones Arena), or enjoy live music while you wine and dine outdoors. Check out our calendar of events page to learn more, and keep an eye on local venues like the Jefferson Theater, The Southern Café & Music Hall, the Ting Pavilion, and the Paramount Theater for more upcoming shows. Be mindful that the University of Virginia will hold Final Exercises on the weekend of May 19th, so expect busier restaurants and larger crowds at attractions that weekend.

Downtown in Bloom

May 1 - 31, 2023

Join us Downtown during this rejuvenating time of year for a month-long celebration of art, flowers, and the beauty of spring! Pick up a Spring Stroll passport at our Mobile Visitor Center to try cocktails and mocktails from several participating restaurants, pick up plants and participate in workshops at the Flower Market on May 4th, or watch artists at work at the Chalk Fest on May 20th. All events are free! Learn about all the events here.

2nd Annual VeryAsian Celebration

May 13, 2023

In celebration of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, Chimm - Thai & SouthEast Asian Street Food will be hosting the 2nd Annual VeryAsian Celebration! The celebration will feature performances and art by:

Laughing Dragon Kung Fu
Hiromi Tai Chi
Sylvia Chong
JPun’s “Afro Asia”
Victor Lee

There will also be a VA Wine Tasting (presented by Oenoverse), food from Chimm, Mochiko, and Kanak, and more!

Free registration helps with a headcount estimate, but you can also pre-purchase wine tasting tickets, food, T-shirts and posters to help support the event!

For more info, check the website here.

Crozet Arts & Crafts Festival

May 13 - 14, 2023

This twice annual juried arts and crafts event draws talented artisans from states away! The festivals were started in 1980 to benefit Claudius Crozet Park, a non-profit community owned and operated park located in Crozet, just 15 minutes west of Charlottesville. Today, the festival draws thousands of visitors from near and far, and features live music, food trucks, and craft beverage tastings, in addition to the arts and crafts available for purchase from 125+ vendors and artisans. Click here for more information.

Rivanna Roots Concert Series and Rivanna River Fest

May 13 - September 30, 2023 and May 20, 2023

The Rivanna Roots Concert Series kicks off on May 13th! This family friendly concert series is held at Rivanna River Company, and visitors are encouraged to tube or kayak beforehand and make a day of it. Check out the list of concerts here. And on May 20th, be sure to attend the Rivanna River Fest and celebrate the nature and the river!

Charlottesville Arts Festival

May 27-28, 2023

Join us at Ix Art Park for an incredible weekend of art! The festival will welcome over 50 fine artists and celebrate creativity, diversity, and community. Immersive art experiences, incredible live music, workshops, and artisan demos will be happening throughout the weekend. Check the website as the festival approaches to learn more

Mobile Visitor Centers Our Visitor Centers are mobile and operate Wednesday-Sunday at set locations throughout Charlottesville and Albemarle County. Stop by a MVC to speak with a travel specialist and browse a selection of free maps and guides of the area. Learn More
Crozet Arts and Crafts Festival Annual (May & Oct) juried fine arts and crafts show featuring 125+ of the nation's finest artists and craftsmen. Live music, food trucks, raffle prizes, kids area, and more. The festival provides a fine outing for the entire family. Exhibits… Learn More
Ix Art Park Enjoy a colorful wonderland of murals and sculptures in the midst of downtown Charlottesville! The outdoor art park is free and open to the public 7 days a week. Play with your kids (or by yourself!), pack a lunch for… Learn More
Events Charlottesville and Albemarle County host a variety of visitor-friendly events throughout the year, bringing people together to celebrate food, drinks, music, art, culture, history, the outdoors and more. Learn More

Get on the Water

With the arrival of warmer weather, May is the perfect time to get out on the water. Rent a kayak, go rafting, or try paddle boarding on the James or Rivanna Rivers. Enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding nature while cooling off and getting some fresh air.

James River Reeling and Rafting Come float the historic James River with the Premier Outfitter and make memories with family and friends. Relax on the banks of the James while our professional staff readies your equipment; and don't forget to bring your fishing tackle along… Learn More
James River Runners, LLC James River Runners offers canoeing, rafting, inner tubing, kayaking, camping, and fishing on the historic James River in central Virginia. Self-guided canoe, raft, tube, and kayak trips daily in season. Professional outfitters since 1979. March 1- October 1 is float… Learn More
Rivanna River Company Rivanna River Co. is Charlottesville's paddling outfitter and guide service. We have everything you need to enjoy the water: Kayaks, Canoes, Stand-Up Paddleboards, Tubes, Shuttles, Guides, and more. One call connects you with all the equipment, logistics, and information to… Learn More
James River Batteau Company James River Batteau Company offers one-of-a kind river experiences that get you out on the water in style! Take a step back in time, as you are invited aboard their 18th century replica James River Batteau for a River Tour… Learn More

Find Your New Favorite Cycling Route

The Charlottesville area is a haven for cycling enthusiasts, with its picturesque countryside and scenic routes. Rent a bike or bring your own and explore the numerous trails along the Rivanna Trail System or in one of many Albemarle County parks. May offers pleasant weather for outdoor activities, making it an ideal time for a leisurely bike ride.

Family Biking at Preddy Creek Park
Mountain Biking at Preddy Creek Park

Farmers Markets and Picking Your Own Fruit

In April, the Charlottesville City Market and Scottsville Farmers Market returned for the season, and now that May is here, many more are returning! Check out the farmers market page below for a full list. Remember that the Mobile Visitor Centers are on site at the Farmers Market at Ix Art Park and at the Scottsville Farmers Market to provide more information about the area.

After spending some time at the markets, go pick your own strawberries at Chiles Peach Orchard in Crozet! It's a fun and wholesome activity for families or anyone who enjoys the taste of fresh strawberries. Pick juicy berries straight from the fields and savor the taste of the season's bounty.

Celebrate an Abundance of Food & Drink

May is both BBQ and hamburger month, and with so many amazing restaurants in the area, indulging in Charlottesville and Albemarle County is the perfect way to spend the month. Grab a classic diner burger at Riverside Lunch or Mel's Café. Stop in at Ace Biscuit & Barbecue, tucked away in a small corner in the Rose Hill neighborhood near Downtown, or check out Smoked Kitchen and Tap's newly opened location along 29 North. Check the Food & Drink page below to discover more delicious burgers and BBQ.

If you're looking to enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the lovely May weather and the sights and sounds of Charlottesville and Albemarle County, check out the outdoor dining page below for a list of restaurants with charming outdoor patios. These are just a few to get you started. From cozy cafes to upscale restaurants, there are plenty of options for outdoor dining in the area!

Don't forget about Mother's Day brunch this May! There are many wonderful places to dine, including MarieBette Café & Bakery, a beloved spot known for its artisanal pastries, bread, and delectable brunch dishes, Farm Bell Kitchen, which features a special Mother's Day brunch menu, and The Fitzroy, with classic brunch dishes, craft cocktails, and unique beverage offerings. These are just a few - find more brunch options on the Food & Drink page!

Plan Your Stay

Take in all that May has to offer in Charlottesville and Albemarle County by staying a while! Mid-week stays will reward you with lower rates and more availability during this popular spring travel season. Check out the places to stay page below for a variety of options.