The Hayes Weekend Report: May 1-3, 2026
Well, May is here and Colorado Springs is wasting no time making it count. This first weekend of the month is loaded with things to do for families, music lovers, theater fans, and anyone who just wants to get out of the house and enjoy some fresh spring air. Whether you are looking for something free and low key or a proper night out, there is a little bit of everything happening around the Pikes Peak region this Friday through Sunday. Let’s get into it.
Family Events and Festivals
Spring Fling and Fast Things at the El Paso County Fairgrounds
If you want a full weekend of community fun without breaking the bank, head out to the El Paso County Fair and Events Center in Calhan for Spring Fling and Fast Things. This two day market and activity experience brings together local vendors, hands on demonstrations, family friendly attractions, interactive displays, and food trucks. It is the kind of event where you can stroll around, let the kids explore, grab a bite from a food truck, and just enjoy the energy of a community gathering.
Saturday night takes things up a notch when the track lights up for Fast Things, featuring Ramped Up Freestyle Motocross headlined by X Games rider Anthony Murray, alongside NOW600 racing and a full six class racing lineup. It is a fantastic combination of springtime fun and adrenaline fueled action all in one place.
•Day/Time: Saturday, May 2 from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM; Sunday, May 3 from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM
•Location: El Paso County Fair and Events Center, 366 10th Street, Calhan, CO
•Price: Free admission all day Sunday. Free on Saturday until 3:00 PM. Saturday night race admission is separate (get $10 off if you arrive before 3:00 PM).
Colorado Springs Home Show
If you have been thinking about a home renovation, a new deck, or just want to see what is new in home design and improvement, the Colorado Springs Home Show is the perfect place to spend a few hours. Local and national vendors will be on hand all weekend at the Colorado Springs Event Center, offering exclusive deals, live demonstrations, and the chance to meet contractors and designers face to face. Best of all, admission is completely free.
•Day/Time: Friday, May 1 from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM; Saturday, May 2 from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM; Sunday, May 3 from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
•Location: Colorado Springs Event Center, 3960 Palmer Park Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO
•Price: Free Admission
Arts and Crafts
Black Forest Arts and Crafts Guild Spring Show and Sale
The Black Forest Arts and Crafts Guild puts on one of the most beloved local craft shows of the year, and this weekend is your chance to check it out. Running through Sunday at the Black Forest Community Center, the show features handcrafted items from talented local artisans. It is a wonderful way to support your neighbors, find something unique, and enjoy the welcoming atmosphere of the Black Forest community. The guild also welcomes non perishable food donations at the show to support local families in need.
•Day/Time: Friday, May 1 through Sunday, May 3 (Friday 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday hours vary; check website )
•Location: Black Forest Community Center, 12530 Black Forest Rd, Colorado Springs, CO
•Price: Free Admission
•Link: https://www.bfacg.org/
VAPA Student Arts Festival at the Ent Center for the Arts
Running through May 10, the VAPA Student Arts Festival at UCCS is a month long celebration of student achievement in music, theater, forensics, and the visual arts. This weekend offers a great opportunity to catch student performances and exhibitions at the Ent Center for the Arts. Most events are free and open to the public, making it an accessible and inspiring outing for families who want to encourage a love of the arts in their kids.
•Day/Time: Ongoing through May 10; check the UCCS website for specific weekend performance times
•Location: Ent Center for the Arts, 5225 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO
•Price: Most events are free. Some ticketed performances available.
•Link: https://vapa.uccs.edu/events
Theater
Romeo and Juliet by Theatreworks
If you have not caught Theatreworks’ production of Romeo and Juliet yet, this is your last chance. The show closes Sunday, May 3, and it has been getting rave reviews for its fresh take on Shakespeare’s most iconic love story. With multiple performances this weekend, including a Saturday matinee, it is a great option for a date night or a family outing with older kids.
•Day/Time: Friday, May 1 at 7:00 PM; Saturday, May 2 at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM; Sunday, May 3 at 4:00 PM
•Location: Dusty Loo Bon Vivant Theatre, Ent Center for the Arts, 5225 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs, CO
•Price: Tickets range from approximately $20.75 to $53 depending on seating
Yo Ho Ho and a Barrel of Fun at Iron Springs Chateau
For a truly one of a kind evening, head to the Iron Springs Chateau in Manitou Springs for their spring melodrama, Yo Ho Ho and a Barrel of Fun. Set in a world of rowdy pirates and high seas chaos, this dinner theater show is packed with laughs, audience participation, and a hearty meal. It is the kind of evening that becomes a family memory. The show runs through August, so if you cannot make it this weekend, keep it on your radar.
•Day/Time: Friday, May 1 and Saturday, May 2 at 7:30 PM
•Location: Iron Springs Chateau, 444 Ruxton Ave, Manitou Springs, CO
•Price: Dinner and show packages available; check website for pricing
A Garden Party at Commonwheel Artists Co-op
Over in Manitou Springs, Commonwheel Artists Co-op is hosting A Garden Party, a special exhibit celebrating the hope and joy that May brings. The gallery is open daily and features a collection of artwork from local artists. It is a relaxed, free way to spend an hour or two in one of the most charming spots in the Pikes Peak region.
•Day/Time: Friday, May 1 through Sunday, May 3 (10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily )
•Location: Commonwheel Artists Co-op, 102 Canon Ave, Manitou Springs, CO
•Price: Free Admission
Live Music
Saxsquatch at The Black Sheep
For the music fans looking for something a little different on Sunday night, Saxsquatch is taking the stage at The Black Sheep. This is an 18 and older show, so plan accordingly, but if you are looking for a fun night out after a full weekend, it is worth checking out. Saxsquatch brings a uniquely entertaining live performance that blends saxophone driven music with an unforgettable stage presence.
•Day/Time: Sunday, May 3, Doors at 8:00 PM, Show at 9:00 PM
•Location: The Black Sheep, 3905 E Platte Ave, Colorado Springs, CO
•Price: Check website for ticket prices
That is your lineup for the first weekend of May in Colorado Springs. There is truly something for everyone, from free family festivals to closing night theater performances. Get out there, enjoy the spring weather, and make some memories. And as always, check the event websites for the most up to date information on times, tickets, and any last minute changes.
Have a great weekend, Colorado Springs. We will see you out there.
