7 Events to Look Forward to in May
Goodbye April showers, hello May flowers! Newport Beach is buzzing with things to do this spring, and we couldn’t be more excited to welcome the month of May. There’ll be plenty of sunny beach days in store, but you’ll also want to mark your calendars for these seven happenings in Newport Beach. From the annual Newport Beach Wine Festival to live concerts and the Annual Balboa Island Artwalk, these events are sure to add some fun to your May calendar!
Newport Beach Surf & Turf Polo Classic 2024
Back for its second year, the Newport Beach Surf & Turf Polo Classic promises an elevated blend of sport, elegance and community, set against the stunning backdrop of Newport Beach’s coastline. This event in Newport Beach will take place on Saturday, May 4, from noon to 4 p.m. at Peninsula Park. Dress to impress in your finest polo or Kentucky Derby-inspired attire, with fancy hats encouraged. Stick around after the polo matches for a watch party featuring the Kentucky Derby on a large video screen. Tickets are $150 per person and are selling fast, so secure yours now by RSVPing through this link!
Mother’s Day Brunch at Balboa Bay Resort
Nobody does brunch quite like Balboa Bay Resort. The waterfront hotel in Newport Beach is best known for its Sunday Seafood Brunch, but this Mother’s Day, you and your mom can enjoy a special seaside meal! There will be a decadent seafood display, a fresh sushi bar, a bourbon banana foster station and more. Tickets include bellinis, sparkling wine and mimosas, and there will also be a pop-up shop featuring brands from South Coast Plaza. Brunchers will also get to enjoy live music and a family photo station.
Spring Garden Art Faire at Sherman Library & Gardens
Spring has sprung in Newport Beach! Take a leisurely stroll through Sherman Library & Gardens in Corona del Mar to the sounds of harp melodies and explore the creations of over a dozen talented local artists and artisans. This year’s Spring Garden Art Faire will showcase botanical-themed artwork spanning various mediums such as watercolor, mosaics, oils, acrylics, ceramics, glass, leather and more. Additionally, Sherman Library & Gardens‘ dedicated volunteers, The Sowers, have been crafting a range of spring-themed items for both humans and furry friends alike. Before you leave, don’t forget to visit the Bouquet Bar, where you can fashion your own floral arrangement to take home, just in time for Mother’s Day.
Newport Dunes, a family-friendly waterfront RV resort, sits on the edge of the Back Bay, offering a variety of watersport activities for families. From boating, kayaking and paddleboarding to lounging on the sand and climbing, jumping and plunging on Newport Dunes’ inflatable water park (opening May 24!), the opportunities for fun in the sun are limitless. This month, you and your fam can also enjoy Tunes at the Dunes—a concert series with food trucks, live entertainment and a full bar for the parents. Admission is free; for more info, click here.
Raise your glasses to a Memorial Day weekend celebration like no other, with ocean views as your backdrop! The highly-anticipated Newport Beach Wine Festival is back for its 19th year from May 24-26, featuring exciting new additions that are sure to delight. With over 500 wine enthusiasts expected to attend, Balboa Bay Resort will host dozens of wine and spirits vendors, offering a wide array of libations to suit every palate. Indulge in signature wines from reputable brands like JUSTIN and Veuve Clicquot, or liven up the party with spirits like Casamigos, Belvedere, Ketel One and Empress Gin. With premium wine and spirits, gorgeous bay views and a decadent champagne brunch to round out the weekend, the Newport Beach Wine Festival promises to be an unforgettable experience that will fill your cup!
29th Annual Balboa Island Artwalk
Mary Hardesty Realty presents the 29th Annual Balboa Island Artwalk! This prestigious event is a captivating showcase of local talent, boasting a diverse array of art, music, sun and fun for people of all ages. Mark your calendars for Sunday, May 19, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; the art walk will take place along the South Bayfront Promenade on Balboa Island. Admission is free, so come check out the work of 90 gifted artists and their masterpieces, ranging from breathtaking paintings and exquisite fine jewelry to mesmerizing blown glass, captivating sculptures and stunning photography. As you stroll, you’ll be serenaded by live music across three stages too!
The Female Maker Market returns to Lido Marina Village on May 11 in honor of Mother’s Day! Swing by the Lido Deck from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. to shop for the mama in your life. This curated pop-up market will feature over 25 women in business, allowing you to shop small and support local female entrepreneurs. There will be all sorts of goodies for sale, ranging from handcrafted jewelry to nifty home goods and fashionable clothing. Don’t miss out on this seaside shopping experience!
