May in Long Beach is one of the most vibrant months of the year. With sunshine nearly every day, cool coastal breezes, and a packed calendar of events, it’s the perfect time to get outside and explore the city.
Whether you’re a local looking for new weekend plans or a visitor seeking unforgettable experiences, Long Beach delivers with a lineup of diverse, inclusive, and exciting events.
At Long Beach Stuff, we live for community connection—and we’ve rounded up the top 5 events happening this May 2025 that you won’t want to miss.
1. Long Beach Pride Festival & Parade
- May 17–18, 2025
- 386 E Shoreline Dr, Long Beach, CA 90802
One of the most iconic events in the city, the Long Beach Pride Festival & Parade is a massive, colorful celebration of love, equality, and inclusion. Now in its 42nd year, this two-day festival draws thousands of attendees from across the region and beyond.
Expect live performances from local and national artists across multiple stages, a vibrant parade down Ocean Boulevard, drag shows, food vendors, and over 150 booths offering crafts, LGBTQ+ resources, and community engagement. Whether you’re marching, dancing, or cheering from the sidelines, Pride is pure joy and solidarity on display.
Pro tip: Bring sunscreen, wear comfortable shoes, and arrive early to snag a good spot along the parade route!
2. Teen Pride
- May 16, 2025
- 400 E Shoreline Dr, Long Beach, CA 90802
Held the evening before the main Pride Festival, Teen Pride is a safe, supportive space for LGBTQ+ youth and allies ages 13 to 18. This youth-focused event includes live music, a dance floor, games, and peer-led workshops—all organized with the goal of celebrating identity, friendship, and belonging.
It’s a meaningful event that offers teens a chance to connect with one another in an affirming environment. Long Beach continues to lead the way in creating spaces where young people can truly be themselves.
3. Dance Downtown Revolution
- May 13–27, 2025 (every Tuesday through May)
- Different Long Beach locations
Get ready to move! Dance Downtown Revolution is an open-air dance experience set right in the heart of downtown Long Beach. Featuring DJs, dance instructors, and a high-energy crowd, this free event invites everyone—from seasoned dancers to total beginners—to let loose and join the fun.
The event will feature rotating dance styles throughout the evening, including salsa, hip-hop, and line dancing. Local food trucks and artisan vendors round out the experience, making it an unforgettable evening out.
This is more than a dance party—it’s a full-on celebration of community, movement, and music.
4. Lilo & Stitch’s Luau Night Market
- May 16, 2025
- 456 Elm Ave, Long Beach, CA 90802
Aloha vibes take over Long Beach at this family-friendly night market inspired by the beloved Disney duo. The Lilo & Stitch Luau Night Market is a tropical-themed market that features Polynesian food, hula dancing, island crafts, and a variety of local vendors offering handmade goods, jewelry, and tasty treats.
There will also be a costume contest for kids, photo ops with characters, and live ukulele performances. It’s the perfect Friday night activity to kick off your weekend—and it’s free to attend.
Don’t forget to wear your best floral prints and bring a reusable bag for shopping!
5. Steel Magnolias – Live Theater
- May 17 – June 14, 2025
- 5021 E Anaheim St, Long Beach, CA 90804
Catch the iconic southern drama “Steel Magnolias” live on stage at Long Beach Playhouse. This moving, funny, and heartfelt play tells the story of six women navigating life, love, and loss in a small Louisiana town. It’s a touching tribute to resilience, friendship, and the power of laughter through tough times.
This local production offers a chance to support Long Beach’s thriving performing arts scene while enjoying a night out that’s both thought-provoking and entertaining.
Perfect for a date night, girls’ night, or solo outing—just bring tissues.
Why We Love May in Long Beach
There’s something about May that brings Long Beach to life. The days are longer, the weather is near-perfect, and the city’s energy shifts into full celebration mode. From cultural festivals to creative markets and live theater, there’s no shortage of ways to experience everything our community has to offer.
Whether you’re soaking up the sun at Pride, shopping under the stars at the Luau Night Market, or dancing in the streets downtown, these events remind us why Long Beach is such a special place to call home.
Stay in the Know with Long Beach Stuff
At Long Beach Stuff, our mission is to keep you connected to what matters most in our city. We spotlight local events, small businesses, artists, and experiences that make Long Beach one of the most vibrant places in Southern California.
For more local events, insider tips, and community stories, visit www.longbeachstuff.com and follow us on Instagram and Facebook. Whether you’re planning your weekend or just looking for something new to explore, we’ve got you covered.
Don’t miss a moment—let Long Beach Stuff be your go-to guide this summer and beyond.