May in Baton Rouge means longer days, warmer nights, and a calendar packed with vibrant festivals, outdoor concerts, and community celebrations. From the savory crawfish boils at the annual Crawfish King CookOff to the soulful bites and beats of the Baton Rouge Soul Food Festival, this month is all about flavor and fun. Art lovers can stroll down Government Street during Hot Art Cool Nights, while families can groove together at events like Scotland Saturdays or Music in the Gardens.

As the school year winds down and summer peeks around the corner, it's the perfect time to soak up live music at Live After 5, try new foods at Night Market BTR, or unwind in nature during one of BREC's planned hikes. Whether you're a local looking for weekend plans or a visitor exploring the city for the first time, May is bursting with ways to experience Baton Rouge at its best.

Here’s your guide to what’s happening this month in the Capital City!

Crawfish King Cookoff

Friday, May 2

Pinch, peel, eat — get ready to party at the 11th Annual Crawfish King Cookoff in downtown Baton Rouge! Held alongside Live After Five, this event brings together teams battling it out for crawfish glory — and your vote helps decide who takes home the coveted paddle. Enjoy endless samples of spicy, savory crawfish, live music, and unbeatable vibes in the heart of the city. Plus, it’s all for a good cause, with proceeds benefiting Junior Achievement and the Big Buddy Program.

Live After 5

Friday, May 2, 9, 16

Clock out at 5 and rock out at Live After 5 during its spring season to Rhorer Plaza! This season's lineup is stacked, featuring Phat Hat, The Mixed Nutes, and The Michael Foster Project closing out the season. Grab your lawn chairs and friends and get ready to dance the evening away! See the full lineup of performances here.

Revive Your Mind Nature Hike

Saturday, May 3

Need a reset? Slow down and reconnect with nature during a guided hiking experience at Frenchtown Conservation Area. This off-the-beaten-path hike will allow the outdoors to quiet your mind and be at ease. It’s a peaceful escape for adults and teens alike, so be sure to register in advance to save your spot!

Shop Local Markets

Every Saturday of the month: Red Stick Farmer's Market

1st Saturday Only: Baton Rouge Arts Market

Friday, May 9 & Saturday, May 31: Local Pop Up Market

Stock up on fresh, seasonal produce and handcrafted goods while supporting local farmers and artisans. Stroll through the Red Stick Farmers Market, held in conjunction with the Baton Rouge Arts Market, and find unique art, jewelry, and home goods. Later in the month, Local Pop-Up at Electric Depot showcases talented local creators—perfect for finding one-of-a-kind treasures!

Scotland Saturdays

Saturday, May 3, 10, 17, 31

On the last Saturday of each month, Scotlandville Plaza transforms into a vibrant celebration of the North Baton Rouge community. From 2–7 p.m., enjoy the Open Market featuring local vendors, artisans, and food trucks, all set to the rhythm of live music from the Levitt AMP Baton Rouge Music Series. You don't want to miss this cultural affair!

First Free Sunday

Sunday, May 4

On the first Sunday of every month, you can enjoy free admission to local museums, offering the perfect opportunity to learn more about the state's art, history and culture. Make a plan to check all of these museums off your bucket list and see the unique exhibitions and installations each has to offer. Participating museums include Capitol Park Museum, Cary Saurage Community Arts Center, Louisiana Art & Science Museum, Louisiana's Old Governor's Mansion, Louisiana's Old State Capitol, LSU Museum of Art, LSU Center for River Studies and Magnolia Mound.

Tiger 10K

Sunday, May 4

Lace up and geaux! Hit the pavement for the annual Tiger 10K, a race-day tradition in Baton Rouge. Whether you’re tackling the 10K, 5K, or bringing the kids for the fun run, this event lets runners take in scenic views of LSU’s iconic campus. Cross the finish line inside Tiger Stadium and hit the win bar to celebrate a great run. Runners of all levels are welcome.

First Wednesday at Baton Rouge Gallery

Wednesday, May 7

Get a first look at Baton Rouge Gallery's latest exhibitions and art pieces at First Wednesday! With more than 70 of Baton Rouge's best emerging and established visual artists, this free sneak peek gives visitors a chance to get up close and personal with local art of all kinds. Enjoy live music, refreshments, and kick off the first Wednesday of the month at Baton Rouge Gallery!

Music in the Gardens

Thursday, May 8

Celebrate the return of Music in the Gardens  on Thursday, May 8, from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. at the LSU AgCenter Botanic Gardens’ Orangerie Garden. Now in its third year, this evening event features live performances by Louisiana artists LeTrainiump, Molly Taylor, and Rhett Glindmeyer. Bring your picnic setup, dancing shoes, and enjoy the scenic garden views. Local food trucks will be on-site, and BYOB is welcome. Tickets are $20 for adults, with a 20% discount for Friends of the Gardens members.

Disney On Ice presents Let's Dance!

Friday, May 9 — Sunday, May 11

Get ready to groove as Disney On Ice returns to Baton Rouge with Let's Dance! This high-energy show features Mickey, Minnie, and a host of Disney favorites—including Elsa, Moana, Simba, and Stitch—remixing beloved songs into a dazzling ice-skating party. Families can also opt for a special pre-show Character Experience with Anna and Elsa, complete with games, crafts, and photo ops. Tickets are available now, and costumes are encouraged for guests.

Hot Art Cool Nights

Friday, May 9 

Government Street transforms into a lively art walk for Hot Art Cool Nights, one of Mid City’s most anticipated annual events. Local businesses open their doors after hours and creators will have their work on display featuring live music, pop-up performances, and delicious bites from food vendors and trucks. Whether you're an art lover, a music fan, or just looking for a fun night out, this free, family-friendly event invites everyone to explore the creative energy of this eclectic neighborhood.

Night Market BTR

Saturday, May 10

Ever wondered what a real night market is like? Now’s your chance to experience one right here in Baton Rouge to kick off the start of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month! Night Market BTR returns for its third year—this time in a new location in front of the Louisiana State Capitol near Spanish Town Road. Explore dozens of vendors serving up mouthwatering eats, handmade goods, and vibrant cultural showcases, all set to the rhythm of live performances. Tickets are $5 in advance and $7 at the door.

Baton Rouge Soul Food Festival

Saturday, May 17 — Sunday, May 18

Come hungry and leave happy at the 8th Annual Baton Rouge Soul Food Festival, happening at The Main Library at Goodwood. This two-day celebration is all about honoring traditional Southern cuisine, with a judged Soul Food Cooking Contest featuring mouthwatering entries in meats, sides, desserts, and drinks. While you eat, enjoy a lineup of live blues, soul, gospel, R&B, and even a little comedy to keep the good vibes going. Be sure to check out the Vendor Village for local goods and handmade crafts.

Can't get enough of Baton Rouge? Click here to check out our complete calendar of events!