May in Rowan County is a celebration of original creativity in every form. From powerful theatrical productions and live music to inspiring visual art and community workshops, the month is filled with opportunities to experience the arts up close. Local stages, galleries, and performance spaces come alive with stories, sound, and expression that reflect both our community and visiting talent. Whether you’re planning a night at the theater, a gallery stroll, or a full weekend of entertainment, May offers something to inspire every arts enthusiast.
Lee St. Theatre Presents: "A Raisin in the Sun"
Now - May 2, 2026
Set on Chicago’s South Side, A Raisin in the Sun follows the Younger family as they navigate conflicting dreams and generational tensions after receiving a life-changing insurance payout. While matriarch Lena hopes to move her family to a better home, her son Walter Lee dreams of investing in a business, and daughter Beneatha pursues a medical career. Lorraine Hansberry’s powerful drama explores dignity, hope, and resilience in the face of hardship.
Waterworks Visual Arts Center Presents: "Art from ALL Perspectives"
Now - June 27, 2026
ART from ALL Perspectives at Waterworks Visual Arts Center features twenty-seven local and regional artists celebrating the work and voices of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) creators. The exhibit showcases a wide range of media that explores themes of identity, culture, and heritage, offering a powerful look at the stories that shape and strengthen the community. The show runs now through June 27, 2026.
Piedmont Players Presents: "Intimate Apparel"
May 1 - 10, 2026
Intimate Apparel is set in 1905 New York and follows Esther, a talented Black seamstress who creates elegant garments for women across all walks of life. As she searches for love and connection, she begins a correspondence with George, a Caribbean man who proposes before they ever meet. When George unexpectedly arrives and Esther finds herself drawn to someone else, she must confront the life and future she truly wants. Performances run May 1-10, 2026 at the Meroney Theater.
Central Carolina Biennial Quilt Fair
May 2 & 3, 2026
The Salisbury-Rowan Quilters’ Guild Biennial Quilt Show returns to the Rowan Community Center in Salisbury, N.C. May 1-2 with a stunning judged exhibition of handmade quilts, plus raffles, vendors, door prizes and a Viewer’s Choice ballot. Browse fabrics, gifts, books and patterns at The Market and Boutique, enjoy lunch on site, and don’t miss the special Buy One Get One Free sale on Saturday. It’s a colorful two-day event celebrating artistry, craftsmanship and creativity.
Gold Rush Art & Craft Festival
May 2, 2026
Spend a spring day at the Gold Rush Art & Craft Festival on May 2 in Historic Gold Hill, where local artists and makers will showcase handmade goods throughout the charming village. Browse unique shops, enjoy food from Fat Mack’s Grill and food trucks, and take in the festive atmosphere while strolling Gold Hill’s scenic boardwalks. It’s a perfect blend of shopping, art and small-town charm.
The Swanee Theatre: "The Discoteks"
May 2, 2025
The Discoteks bring the high-energy sound of 1970s disco to the stage, led by Odell Mickens, former bassist of the legendary group The Trammps. This 8-piece band delivers an electrifying performance filled with funk-driven grooves, powerful horns, and crowd-pleasing vocals designed to keep the dance floor moving all night long. The show takes place at The Swanee Theatre on May 2, 2026 at 8:00 pm, with doors opening at 7:00 pm, and is open to all ages.
Discover Fun in Kannapolis: Thursdays on Main - Band of Oz
May 7, 2026
The Thursdays on Main concert series kicks off its 2026 season at Veterans Park with a free performance by Band of Oz on May 7 at 6 p.m. This long-running community favorite brings classic beach music and high-energy entertainment to Kannapolis, making it a perfect way to enjoy a spring evening outdoors. Admission is free and no ticket is required.
The Swanee Theatre Presents: John Schneider
May 8, 2026
John Schneider brings his 50 State Tour to the stage on May 8, 2026 at 8:10 p.m. Best known for his iconic role as Bo Duke on The Dukes of Hazzard, Schneider has built a successful career as both an actor and musician, sharing stages with country legends like Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and Waylon Jennings. Doors open at 7:10 p.m., with VIP meet-and-greet opportunities available prior to the show.
Artist Critique Night at Waterworks Visual Arts Center
May 14, 2026
Waterworks hosts an Artist Critique Night inviting local and regional artists to share works-in-progress in a supportive, collaborative setting. Participants receive constructive feedback and engage in meaningful dialogue with fellow creatives to gain fresh perspectives on their work. The event is designed to encourage artistic growth for both emerging and established artists.
Salisbury Symphony Presents: "Fate & Destiny"
May 16, 2026
Salisbury Symphony's Fate and Destiny is a powerful musical program exploring themes of inevitability, transformation, and triumph through works by multiple composers. The concert opens with Jessie Montgomery’s Starburst, a vibrant and energetic piece symbolizing sudden change and creative emergence, followed by the world premiere of Farhad Poupel’s Orpheus: Symphonic Variations on Themes by Beethoven, which reimagines the myth of Orpheus through Beethoven-inspired motifs. The program concludes with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7, a dynamic and uplifting work that builds from solemn intensity to exhilarating momentum.
Piedmont Players Presents: "Imaginary: A New Musical"
May 29 - June 14, 2026
Imaginary: A New Musical follows Sam and his only friend, Milo, as they use their imaginations to transform everyday life into a world of adventure and possibility. As Sam prepares for his first day at a new school, concerns arise that Milo may be holding him back from growing up, but school soon reveals unexpected surprises and secrets. Running May 29 through June 14, 2026 at The Norvell Theater, the production explores friendship, change, and the power of imagination with an emotional, otherworldly twist.
The Swanee Theatre Presents: "Skynfolks - Lynyrd Skynyrd Tribute"
May 30, 2026
SkynFolks is a Lynyrd Skynyrd tribute band dedicated to faithfully recreating the sound and spirit of the original recordings with exact precision. The group performs authentic, note-for-note renditions of songs from the band’s first five albums, capturing the classic Southern rock energy that defined an era. The concert takes place May 30, 2026 at 8:00 p.m., with doors opening at 7:00 p.m., and is open to all ages.
Plan Your May Visit in the Arts
Make the most of your arts-filled getaway in Rowan County this May with our Overnight Stay & Play Package, offering visitors 50% back in VISA e-Gift Card Rewards when you book your overnight stay. Whether you're attending a live performance, exploring galleries, or enjoying a full weekend of events, this offer lets you experience more while getting rewarded for your stay. It’s the perfect way to turn a night at the theater or a weekend of concerts and exhibitions into a full arts escape - complete with added value to use during your visit.
To find more events to enjoy this May, visit our event calendar and May in Rowan County blog post.
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