Family-Friendly Fun: May in the OC 2026
By Team NestMade | May 2026 | 5 min read
Orange County in May is about as close to perfect as Southern California gets. The marine layer has not yet settled in for its summer stretch, the beaches are warm enough to enjoy without being overwhelmed, and the county’s event calendar hits a genuine high point. Here is your guide to making the most of May in the OC.
Newport Beach Jazz Festival
The Newport Beach Jazz Festival is one of the premier music events on the West Coast, returning to the harbor for a long Memorial Day weekend with world-class jazz artists in one of the most beautiful settings imaginable. Performances span multiple stages and venues across the Newport Beach waterfront, ranging from classic jazz standards to contemporary fusion. This is a sophisticated, relaxed weekend event that works equally well for a date night or a group outing. Book accommodations early if you plan to make it a full weekend, as Newport fills up fast around Memorial Day.
626 Night Market: Orange County Edition
The 626 Night Market brings its OC edition to Costa Mesa for Memorial Day weekend. One of the largest Asian American night markets in the country, expect hundreds of food vendors serving everything from Taiwanese shaved ice to Korean BBQ tacos, along with live entertainment, cultural performances, and a festive atmosphere that draws families and food lovers alike. This is a perfect Saturday or Sunday outing for the whole family.
Surf City Nights
Huntington Beach’s Surf City Nights is a weekly street fair along Main Street in downtown HB, but May 12 brings a special edition to kick off the summer season. Local vendors, live music, fresh food, and the iconic HB beach town vibe make this a relaxed and easy evening out. Free to attend and genuinely fun for all ages.
Downtown Fullerton Night Market
The Downtown Fullerton Night Market is a growing favorite that draws visitors from across north OC. Local artisans, food trucks, live performances, and a walkable downtown setting make this a low-key but highly enjoyable evening. Fullerton has been steadily building its reputation as one of the most livable and vibrant inland OC cities, and events like this are a big part of why.
The Great Outdoors: Beyond the Events
May is simply a great month to enjoy the OC outdoors. Crystal Cove State Park offers miles of coastal hiking with ocean views that rival anything in California. The Back Bay in Newport Beach is a peaceful kayaking and cycling destination that most visitors overlook. And for families with kids, the Discovery Cube OC in Santa Ana offers hands-on science exhibits that make for a genuinely engaging day out.
The OC Real Estate Picture
Well-priced homes in desirable OC cities are still moving quickly, and demand from buyers continues to outpace the inventory of available homes. If you are considering buying or selling in Orange County this spring, the current window of favorable rates and growing inventory is one worth acting on.
Team NestMade has relationships with top lenders and off-market specialists throughout the OC. Let us help you navigate the market with confidence.
