Your May Event Guide to Catalina Island
May is one of the most exciting months to visit Catalina Island. The weather is warming up, the crowds haven't hit their summer peak yet, and the events calendar is absolutely packed. Here's everything you'll want to mark on your calendar before you hop on the ferry.
Cinco de Mayo — A Fiesta Worth the Boat Ride
If you've ever wanted to celebrate Cinco de Mayo somewhere truly special, Catalina delivers. The Catalina Museum for Art & History hosts a full celebration featuring live performances of Ballet Folklorico alongside local food vendors bringing authentic Mexican flavors. Maggie's Blue Rose gets in on the fun too, with festive specials and a live dance performance. Cap it all off at the Wrigley Stage on the waterfront as the afternoon turns to evening — and while you're at it, the island's beloved Margarita Trail is always a worthy detour.
14th Annual Catalina Arts & Crafts Festival — Mother's Day Weekend
Need the perfect Mother's Day gift? This free festival along scenic Crescent Avenue has you covered. Now in its 14th year and presented by the Catalina Art Association, the weekend-long event (Friday through Sunday) brings together local and regional artisans showcasing handcrafted work you won't find anywhere else. It's a leisurely stroll with something beautiful around every corner.
Silent Film Showcase — May 15 & 16
The Catalina Museum for Art & History's annual Silent Film Showcase is a genuinely unique experience. For two days, the island leans into its rich Hollywood history with a celebration of classic cinema that feels perfectly at home here. Catalina has deep ties to the golden age of film, and this event is a lovely reminder of that legacy.
Art Deco Society Avalon Ball — May 16
Now in its 23rd year, the Art Deco Society of Los Angeles transforms the iconic Catalina Casino Ballroom into a 1920s and '30s time warp. Pull out your vintage finest, step onto the dance floor, and let a live Big Band take you somewhere far from the everyday. It's the kind of evening that reminds you why this ballroom has been enchanting visitors for nearly a century.
'Round the Island Shipwrecks & Film History Tour — May 20
Here's something genuinely rare: a full circumnavigation of Catalina Island. This boat tour doubles as a fundraiser for the Catalina Museum of Art & History, weaving together the island's dramatic shipwreck history and its storied Hollywood past. If you've visited Catalina dozens of times, this is the perspective you've probably never had.
Taste Around Avalon — May 28
One of the most anticipated evenings of the year, Taste Around Avalon turns the whole town into an open-air food and drink festival. Stroll from spot to spot sampling bites and sips from participating restaurants across four categories — appetizers and mains, sweets and treats, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks — then vote for your favorites. The friendly competition between restaurants makes for a lively, delicious night out.
Catalina Wine Mixer — May 29–30
The legend continues. 2026 marks the 11th anniversary of the Catalina Wine Mixer, and this two-day event remains as fun as ever. Inspired by the cult film Step Brothers, expect a special movie screening, a beach party, live music, dancing, and — most importantly — a serious lineup of wine tastings. It's festive, a little irreverent, and a whole lot of fun.
May on Catalina is about as good as it gets. Check the full events calendar at lovecatalina.com and start planning your trip before the best weekends fill up.
