Bass Hall
May in Fort Worth is brimming with exciting events highlighting the city’s rich cultural and entertainment scene. From the lively Mayfest in Trinity Park, featuring local bands, carnival rides, and tasty festival foods, to the star-studded PBR World Finals and the highly anticipated Broadway production of “MJ,” there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of classic ballet, rock concerts, or world-class sports, Fort Worth’s May calendar promises non-stop action and unforgettable experiences.
May 1–4
Mayfest
Chris Newton
With live music from 50 local and regional bands, visual art performances, fried festival foods, and thrilling carnival rides, the annual Trinity Park festival has become Cowtown’s quintessential family event.
Trinity Park
May 2
Bob Schneider
The Austin-based, prolific singer-songwriter who’s been a Texas staple for nearly 30 years makes his annual trek across his home state. In 2017, Schneider began slowly releasing hundreds of unreleased songs through his Song Club podcast.
Tulips
May 2–4
‘Giselle’
Described as one of the most iconic classic ballets of all time, the romantic tale combines Adolphe Adam-penned music with choreography from Jean Carolli and Jules Perrot, whose impressive oeuvre includes “La Esmeralda” and “Ondine.”
Bass Performance Hall
May 7
Billy Idol
Dickies Arena will host Billy Idol and Joan Jett early in the pair’s upcoming world tour. Though he released a single, “Still Dancing,” this year, the “Eyes Without a Face” crooner has plenty in his back catalog to fill a two-hour set with hits.
Dickies Arena
May 8 – 18
PBR World Finals
Hosting eliminations and the championship rounds, Fort Worth and Arlington serve as the final stops for Professional Bull Riders’ Unleash the Beast series. And with three Americans in the top four of the rankings (as of press), Brazil’s current streak of champions could be in jeopardy.
AT&T Stadium
May 13–18
‘MJ’
Matthew Murphy
In 2021, the King of Pop’s life story got the Broadway treatment, which quickly became one of the highest grossing musicals all time. Marking its first visit to Cowtown, the musical includes some of Michael Jackson’s most popular numbers, including “Beat It” and “Billie Jean.”
Bass Performance Hall
May 17
Tacos and Tequila Festival
Farrar Food Photography
Tacos and Tequila
If there are two things Fort Worth clearly cannot get enough of, it’s tortilla-wrapped proteins and agave-based alcohol — a match made in acid reflux heaven. And a day-long festival celebrating the pair will no doubt increase the local sale of TUMS.
Panther Island Pavilion
May 17
Lee Brice
Hailing from South Carolina, Lee Brice has amassed over 1 million record sales and eight chart-topping singles on the Billboard Country Charts. Though he hasn’t released an album proper since 2020, Brice has stayed busy cutting multiple singles the last four years.
Billy Bob’s Texas
May 19–25
Charles Schwab Challenge
Colonial Country Club
In its 79th year, the PGA Tour’s Charles Schwab Challenge, known colloquially as Colonial, brings a solid field of professional golfers to Fort Worth. Those who have already committed include past tournament winners Zach Johnson, Chris Kirk, and Kevin Kisner.
Colonial Country Club
May 21–June 7
The Van Cliburn International Piano Competition
Photo Ralph Lauer
One of the most prestigious piano competitions in the world, the victor of this quadrennial battle of dexterity and musicality will receive $100,000 and career management for three years. The 2022 winner, Yunchan Lim, signed with a major record label in 2023.
Bass Performance Hall
