Things to Do in Baton Rouge this May
It’s gonna be May… and honestly, we’re not even mad about it.
We’re kicking off the month the only way Baton Rouge knows how, with a big crawfish boil and a whole lot of energy! Arts, culture, and live music take center stage this month, from Live After Five closing its spring season to a major night under the stadium lights with Post Malone and Jelly Roll. Whether you’re an art lover, a music fan, or just here for the good vibes, there’s no shortage of ways to experience Louisiana’s capital this month.
Here’s what’s happening in Baton Rouge this May.
12th Annual Crawfish King Cookoff
Friday, May 1
Things are about to get spicy at the Crawfish King Cookoff, where local boilers compete to serve up the best crawfish in town. Buy a ticket, grab a tray, peel your way through piles of perfectly seasoned crawfish, and vote for your favorites while live music during Live After 5 keeps the energy going. It is messy in the best way, full of bold flavor, and one of those Baton Rouge experiences you just have to taste for yourself.
Spanish Town Pink Pub Crawl
Saturday, May 2
Let's paint the town PINK! This pink themed pub crawl takes you through Spanish Town with festive drinks, lively stops, and a crowd that’s all in on the fun. Grab something pink, gather your crew, and make your way from bar to bar.
Movies & Music on the Lawn
Saturday, May 2 & 23
Movies & Music on the Lawn pairs silent films with original live scores composed and performed by local musicians. Creating a multi-sensory experience for all, this takes family nights to a whole new level. The first Saturday is for kiddos, with Charlie Chaplin's "The Kid" from the 1920s showing on the big screen while the Breadstick Quartet will cover the "The Illusionist” on the 23rd.
Shop Local Markets
Every Saturday of the month: Red Stick Farmers Market
1st Saturday Only: Baton Rouge Arts 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 tandem with the Baton Rouge Arts Market, and find unique art, jewelry, and home goods. Later in the month, check out Local Pop-Up at Electric Depot. This monthly event showcases talented local creators that's perfect for finding one-of-a-kind treasures!
First Free Sunday
Sunday, May 3
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.
Live After 5
Friday, May 8, 15, 27
On Friday nights, it's simple: we are living for Live After 5. This free concert series returns this spring with a stacked lineup featuring the Michael Foster Project, Nathan & The Zydeco Cha Chas, and Rouge Krewe to name a few. Grab your lawn chairs, your after 5 krewe, and your dancing shoes for this one folks!
Hot Art Cool Nights
Friday, May 8
Mid City comes alive for Hot Art Cool Nights, a free evening celebration where galleries, pop up art, live music, and local vendors spill out into the streets. You can wander from one creative stop to the next, catching the glow of artwork, the sound of live performances, and the smell of food trucks lining the route. It is the kind of night made for strolling slowly, discovering something unexpected around every corner.
Night Market BTR
Saturday, May 9
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 is returning for its fourth year with dozens of vendors serving up mouthwatering eats, handmade goods, and vibrant cultural showcases, all set to the rhythm of live performances.
Death Valley Live: Post Malone with Jelly Roll
Saturday, May 23
This month brings another edition of Death Valley Live – this time with Post Malone and Jelly Roll! The nine-time diamond-certified global superstar is bringing his stadium tour to Tiger Stadium, and trust us – it's going to be HUGE. Presale may be over, but there's still time to grab tickets before they're all gone!
Baton Rouge Soul Food Festival
Sunday, May 24
Bring your appetite for something special at the 9th Annual Baton Rouge Soul Food Festival. This celebration puts Southern cooking front and center with a judged soul food cookoff featuring everything from savory meats and hearty sides to sweet desserts. While you sample your way around, enjoy live entertainment and the Vendor Village where you can browse local goods and handmade finds.
LSU & Southern University Baseball
Various dates (check full schedule for LSU here, SU schedule here)
Baton Rouge baseball comes alive in the spring, with both LSU and Southern University bringing excitement to the diamond. From the powerhouse energy of the reigning national champion Tigers at Alex Box Stadium to the proud tradition and community‑driven atmosphere at Southern’s Lee–Hines, the city offers two distinct yet equally spirited game‑day experiences. With plenty of opportunities to catch both the Tigers and the Jaguars this month, it’s the perfect time to soak in everything that makes Baton Rouge a true baseball town.
Can't get enough of Baton Rouge? Check out our complete calendar of events to plan your next adventure.
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