Events to Look Forward to in Gaston County in May 2025
- Melissa McCauley
- Apr 30
- 3 min read
Spring in Gaston County is a time of renewal, celebration, and exciting events that bring the community together. Whether you're looking for a festival full of music and food, a unique outdoor experience, or a chance to find hidden treasures, there's something for everyone. Here's a look at the must-attend events happening this spring.
Goat Island Games
Date: May 3, 2025
Location: Goat Island, Cramerton, NC
Join the community for a variety of sporting events and recreational activities suitable for all ages: 5K run, fishing tournament, corn-hole tournament, disc-golf tournament, mountain bike adventure race by the Tarheel Trailblazers, workouts by Immortal Athletics, yoga by Sweet Peace Yoga, ping pong tournament, pickleball tournament, music, food, and drinks. This event promotes health and wellness while providing a fun and active way to spend a spring day.
Springfest
Date: May 3, 2025
Location: Mount Holly, NC
Springfest brings together local artisans, a kid zone, food vendors, live performances, Little Miss SpringFest, a car show hosted by the Oasis Drum and Bugle Corps, and plenty of activities to celebrate the season. A great way to experience the best of Mount Holly in the springtime!
Riverfest 2025
Date: May 3, 2025
Location: McAdenville, NC LEARN MORE
This free, family-friendly event celebrates the Catawba River. This jam-packed day will include live music, a plein air art competition, local artisans, craft beer, a kids' zone, and food trucks! —But the real highlight will be the Floating Concert! Grab your tickets today and experience live music on the water as you float down the river from McAdenville to Cramerton!
Cinco de Mayo
Date: May 4, 2025
Location: Rotary Pavilion, Gastonia, NC LEARN MORE
Join us for our 4th Festival del Cinco de Mayo! We have had so much love from our sponsors, community, and even people from outside Gastonia who are eager to support this great community event.
Come see the beautiful dance and cultural performances by Ballet Folklórico Corazón de México from Greensboro live!
Down Home Festival
Date: May 8-9, 2025
Location: Bessemer City
The 37th Annual Down Home Festival in Downtown Bessemer City. Kick the fun off with "Family Night". Enjoy rides, food, live music, and more.
Celebrate the Outdoors
Date: May 9, 2025
Location: CaroMont Health Park
“Celebrate The Outdoors Night” is sponsored by Gaston County Parks Recreation Tourism. This special evening will showcase outdoor adventures, outdoor lifestyle and things to do in Gaston County to celebrate the outdoors, making it easy for the entire community to enjoy. Grab your friends and family and come out for an evening of fun. In addition to great baseball there will be a recreation showcase, giveaways and prizes!
Hippie Daze Festival
Dates: May 17–18, 2025
Location: Dallas Lavender Lane, Dallas, NC
Step back into the 1960s at the Hippie Daze Festival! Enjoy live '60s/'70s music and vintage vendors, and wear your hippie best for the costume contest and a celebration of peace and love. It's a groovy way to wrap up the spring season.
Memorial Day Celebration
Dates: May 24–25, 2025
Location: Whitewater Center
Start the holiday with a Saturday morning race through the Whitewater Center’s trail system to go with pass activities and yoga. Enjoy live music throughout the weekend and illuminated activities on Sunday evening.
Plan Your May Adventures in Gaston County
Gaston County is full of vibrant events that celebrate community, nature, and culture. Mark your calendar and make the most of this May with these exciting festivals and gatherings. For more details on these events and other happenings.
