Get ready to experience the island in full bloom with our Ultimate Guide to May Festivals in Puerto Rico. As spring turns to summer, Puerto Rico lights up with vibrant celebrations across every corner of the island—from mountain towns to coastal cities. Whether you’re into traditional patron saint fiestas, agricultural fairs, or culinary feasts, May is packed with can’t-miss events that showcase the island’s rich culture, flavors, and community spirit. This guide will take you to the heart of the action, with dates, locations, and insider tips to help you make the most of every unforgettable moment.
Quick Look: May Festivals in Puerto Rico
| Date | Festival / Event | Location |
|---|---|---|
| May 1-4 | Fiestas Patronales de Arecibo | Plaza Luis Muñoz Rivera, Arecibo |
| May 1-4 | Festival Tierra Adentro en Utuado | UPR, Recinto de Utuado |
| May 2-4 | Festival del Huerto Casero en Gurabo | Coliseo Fernando “Rube” Hernández, Gurabo |
| May 4 | Festival del Fricasé en Naranjito | Plaza Pública de Naranjito |
| May 15-18 | Fiestas Patronales de Sabana Grande | Área Recreativa Orlando López Martínez, Sabana Grande |
| May 18 | Festival de la Caña | Finca Carlos Ruiz, Hatillo |
May 1-4: Fiestas Patronales de Arecibo: A Coastal Celebration of Culture & Community
Plaza Luis Muñoz Rivera, Arecibo
Celebrate Puerto Rican heritage in full color at the Fiestas Patronales de Arecibo, one of the island’s most spirited coastal festivals. Set in the heart of Arecibo’s historic plaza, this four-day event honors San Felipe Apóstol, the town’s patron saint, through a vibrant mix of music, food, and tradition. Families, foodies, and culture lovers alike flock to enjoy live performances, a festive carnival, artisan vendors, and mouthwatering local dishes like alcapurrias and pastelillos.
Must See: Nightly live music performances featuring salsa, plena, and reggaetón stars.
Perfect For: Families, culture seekers, and anyone who loves a good fiesta.
Insider Tip: Arrive early on Sunday for the traditional mass and religious procession—it’s deeply moving and uniquely Puerto Rican.
More Info: FaceBook
May 1-4: Festival Tierra Adentro en Utuado: Nature, Culture, and the Spirit of the Mountains
Universidad de Puerto Rico – Recinto de Utuado
Head inland to the mountainous town of Utuado for the Festival Tierra Adentro, a celebration of sustainability, agriculture, and rural Puerto Rican traditions. This annual event draws nature enthusiasts, students, and locals to the university campus for workshops, artisan markets, and cultural exhibitions. From learning about native plants to enjoying locally sourced cuisine and live music, this festival offers an immersive escape into the heart of Puerto Rico’s interior.
Must See: The Mariposario Jardín Tanamá—an educational butterfly garden that enchants all ages.
Perfect For: Eco-tourists, families, and anyone curious about sustainable farming and culture.
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the 5K “Corre Tierra Adentro” race on Saturday morning—it’s a fun way to explore the scenic Utuado countryside.
More Info: FaceBook
May 2-4: Festival del Huerto Casero en Gurabo: A Garden Lover’s Paradise
Coliseo Fernando “Rube” Hernández, PR-181, Gurabo
Whether you’re a green thumb or just plant-curious, the Festival del Huerto Casero in Gurabo offers a lush weekend of workshops, demos, and all things gardening. Now in its 25th edition, this beloved event brings together agricultural experts and home gardeners for hands-on learning about composting, hydroponics, and backyard sustainability. With over 100 exhibitors and food kiosks, it’s a family-friendly event that’s as educational as it is fun.
Must See: Live gardening demos and the orchid and bonsai exhibits.
Perfect For: Urban gardeners, DIY enthusiasts, and families looking for a wholesome day out.
Insider Tip: Bring reusable bags and small cash bills—there are incredible plant sales and homemade garden products throughout the venue.
More Info: FaceBook
May 4: Festival del Fricasé en Naranjito: Puerto Rican Comfort Food at Its Finest
Plaza Pública de Naranjito
Savor one of Puerto Rico’s most iconic comfort foods at the Festival del Fricasé in Naranjito. This one-day celebration centers around the beloved fricasé—whether it’s chicken, beef, or pork, slow-simmered to tender perfection. Alongside a mouthwatering culinary showcase, visitors can enjoy live music, artisan markets, agricultural displays, and games for the whole family in Naranjito’s lively town plaza.
Must See: Fricasé cook-off featuring traditional and creative versions of the dish.
Perfect For: Foodies, families, and fans of Puerto Rican cuisine.
Insider Tip: Make time to explore the scenic mountain views along PR-152—one of the island’s most picturesque drives.
More Info: FaceBook
May 15-18: Fiestas Patronales de Sabana Grande: Music, Faith, and Small-Town Charm
Área Recreativa Orlando López Martínez, Sabana Grande
The southern town of Sabana Grande comes alive each May with its Fiestas Patronales, honoring San Isidro Labrador, the patron saint of farmers. Over four days, the Área Recreativa fills with live music, colorful rides, local delicacies, and artisan stalls. It’s the kind of festival where the community gathers every evening to celebrate faith, family, and fun—offering an authentic slice of Puerto Rican life.
Must See: Traditional processions and nighttime concerts under the stars.
Perfect For: Travelers looking for an off-the-beaten-path cultural experience.
Insider Tip: Try the local “pan sobao” from neighborhood bakeries—it’s a regional favorite with a sweet, fluffy texture.
More Info: FaceBook
May 18: Festival de la Caña: A Sweet Celebration of Puerto Rico’s Agricultural Heritage
Finca Carlos Ruiz, Hatillo
Step into Puerto Rico’s rich agricultural traditions at the Festival de la Caña, a lively event honoring the island’s historic sugarcane industry. Held at the scenic Finca Carlos Ruiz in Hatillo, this one-day festival showcases everything from sugarcane exhibits and artisan markets to live music and authentic Puerto Rican cuisine. Families, history buffs, and foodies come together to celebrate a crop that helped shape Puerto Rico’s cultural and economic landscape.
Must See: Traditional sugarcane juicing demonstrations and tastings of local sweets made from fresh cane.
Perfect For: Families, culture lovers, and anyone curious about Puerto Rico’s farming traditions.
Insider Tip: Don’t leave without trying the “guarapo”—freshly pressed sugarcane juice that’s both refreshing and delicious.
More Info: FaceBook
