Is it even a Cinco de Mayo celebration if there aren’t live mariachi groups, taco platters galore and flavorful drink specials? Luckily for all of our Phoenician friends, the Valley is set to turn into a party-hub this weekend with festive events that are perfect to celebrate this special weekend. We’ve rounded up some of the best things to do around the Valley this weekend, May 3 through May 5.
Friday
Date Night Drive-In Movies
The Promenade will host a series of Date Night Drive-In Movie Nights and block parties each Friday in May. This fun event will is set to kick off this weekend with a special screening of the Oscar-winning film, “Bohemian Rhapsody.” The movies are free, though attendees are encouraged to bring a donation of canned food items to benefit the Harvest Compassion Center. For more information on this event, click here.
Saturday
Cinco de Mayo Bar Crawl
Hosted by Scottsdale Bar Crawls, purchase of a simple wristband will guarantee you access into some of Old Town Scottsdale’s best bars, including El Hefe, Goodwood Tavern, Old Town Gringos, Riot House and Wasted Grain. The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; admission tickets are $20. For more information on this event, click here.
Arizona Rattlers vs. Nebraska Danger
The Indoor Football League's Arizona Rattlers face the Nebraska Danger. The game begins at 6:05 p.m.; ticket prices vary. For more information on this event, click here.
Bourbon Steak’s Kentucky Derby Lawn Party
Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ Bourbon Steak hosts is adored annual Kentucky Derby lawn party with a delicious menu, great cocktails, live music, a photo booth and fun games, sponsored by AZ Foothills! The action takes place from 12:30 to 4 p.m., and guests can dig into festive eats like Southern-style deviled eggs, pickled shrimp, fried oysters, fried chicken biscuit, Derby Pie, red velvet cupcakes, mint juleps and much more deliciousness. There will be multiple TVs inside and outside to watch the 145th running of the “fastest two minutes in sports.” Southern belles and gents: wear your fanciest hats and sharpest suits to compete for prizes in the men’s and women’s Derby hat and fashion contest.
Guys and Dolls
Beginning this weekend and continuing through May 26, the Arizona Broadway Theatre will play host to the beloved musical, “Guys and Dolls.” With impeccable acting performances and catchy scores that are sure to bring the whole audience together singing and dancing, this is a can’t-miss play. Ticket prices and show times vary. For more information on this event, click here.
Derby Day Porch Party
With a delicious food menu, great cocktails, live music, a photo booth and fun games sponsored by AZ Foothills, what more could you want from a party? The Fairmont Scottsdale Princess’ Bourbon Steak is set to host its adored annual Kentucky Derby lawn party this weekend from 1 to 4 p.m., and attendees can even enjoy a special viewing of the 145th Kentucky Derby. Tickets are $95 per person. For more information on this event, click here.
Sunday
Cinco de Mayo Festival
The Cinco de Mayo Festival in Sedona is a colorful fiesta that pays homage to the rich heritage and history of this charming Arizona city. At the Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, guests can enjoy mariachi musicians, folklorico dancers and traditional Mexican food. This year’s festival also coincides with the Sedona Chili Cook-Off, so there will be food and fun galore found at this event. The festival is free, the chili cook-off is $15. For more information on this event, click here.
Enchanted Island Amusement Park Cinco de Mayo
Hosted at the Enchanted Island Amusement Park, this event includes Mexican bands and ballet folklorico dancers showcasing authentic costume creations. And for the kiddos, they can enjoy candy-filled piñatas. Event admission is free; wristbands for rides are $15. For more information on this event, click here.
26th Annual Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival
Live music, ballet, lunch libre and a kids’ zone can all be enjoyed at the 26th annual Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival. Attendees can even enjoy a performance from the Grammy-nominated group War, along with dozens of other incredible national and local bands. The event will take place from noon to 10 p.m., with an entrance on First Avenue. Admission ticket prices vary; for more information on this event, click here.
Cinco de Chandler
This festive bash is being hosted at Ghett’ Yo’ Taco, which is a downtown restaurant that specializes in street tacos. The celebration includes mariachis and live bands, as well as drink and taco platter specials. All ages are welcome until 5 p.m. For more information on this event, click here.
