May is a the beginning of “summer” (defined as months without an “R” in their name) here on the island, and the beginning of “beach weather”. Schools let out for the summer in May, locals head to the beaches, and the action really picks up! Expect fun family activities, lots of plant sales (especially for Mother’s Day), food & drink fests, and dancing & music events.

While there is almost always something interesting happening somewhere in Puerto Rico, there are a few special events each month that deserve a mention. Here are some highlights for May 2017.

May 4 to 7 and 12 to 13: Orchid Festivals

Just in time for Mother’s Day …. there are two orchid events this month! The first in May 4 to 7 in Fajardo at the Fito Ramos Gym, and the other is May 12 to 13 in Dorado in the Dorado Town Plaza.

May 5 to 7: Pineapple Festival in Lajas

Annual pineapple festival, featuring food, music, artisans, and more. At La Parguera in Lajas.

May 18 to 21: Saborea Puerto Rico

This annual Saborea Puerto Rico Food & Drink Festival is an island favorite, for locals and tourists alike. Saturday and Sunday are the big days, with the main event held at Playa Escambron in Old San Juan.

May 20 to 21: Puerto Rico Chocolate Festival in Mayagüez

Annual chocolate festival, featuring food, music, workshops, demo kitchen, and more. At the Sports & Recreation Complex in Mayagüez. Visit the Chocolate Festival web site for more info and to buy tickets.

May 25 to 28: SOFO Food Festival

Semi-annual “Gastronomic and Culinary Festival” in Old San Juan, primarily on Calle Fortaleza and Calle San Francisco. The streets are closed, and restaurants move into the streets with special menus, special prices, and live music. They have a Facebook page for the event with more info.

May 26 to 28: Puerto Rico Comic Con 2017 in San Juan

The Biggest Entertainment event in the Caribbean … Comics, Movies, Video Games and more. Local and international exhibitors and artists. Video games, Tournaments, Cosplay, Conferences, Movie previews, special guests and more surprises. At the Puerto Rico Convention Center in San Juan. Check the PR Comic Con web site for details.

May 26 to 29: Urban Fiesta Weekend 2017

The Urban Fiesta Weekend is hosted every Memorial Day Weekend in San Juan. The S.E.T. Networks goal was to create a stellar event that would satisfy a frustrated traveler who was tired of the same old Memorial Day weekend party options. Urban Fiesta Weekend in Puerto Rico will feature 8 events (4) day & (4) night, HOT Dj’s from all over the US (so your favorite music will be played). People from all over the US and the UK will attend. They also feature Daytime Excursions (outside of the planned day events) so you can embrace the island.

May 26 to 29: XSCAPE Puerto Rico 2017

XSCAPE Puerto Rico is targeted towards African-American & Latino LGBT members 35 to 55 years of age. The weekend boast of workshops, music festivals, arts & cultural affairs, and pool parties. The weekend climaxes with a Sunday empowerment brunch, health & wellness workshop and an evening all white vanguard awards that celebrates the attributes & contributions of various members of the LGBT community.

May 28: Luquillo Beach Jazzfest

Annual jazz festival, with live music, food, and more. At the town plaza in Luquillo.

Other Events

This is just a small subset of activities occurring this month. As always, be sure to check our events calendar, Facebook page, or Twitter feed for other events happening this month and throughout the year all across the island.

PuertoRicoDayTrips.com assumes no responsibility regarding your safety when participating in the activities described in this article. Please use common sense! If your mother or that little voice in your head tells you that you are about to do something stupid … then don't do it! Read more about Safety →