The Scouted Calendar / May 2017

May seems to have the best of both worlds, serving as a rosy transition between spring and summer. The month also brings an exciting slate of social and spirited events offering something for everyone, from exquisite garden showcases to derby festivities to art exhibitions and more. In anticipation of May’s arrival, here’s a roundup of what we’re looking forward to in some of our Scouted cities next month:

Asheville, North Carolina

The iconic Biltmore Estate has its fair share of attractions, including Biltmore Blooms, which features the expansive and exquisitely curated gardens of the property. Running until May 25, this springtime event showcases vibrant color, with the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains serving as a backdrop. Guests who come to see the blooms can also enjoy complimentary wine tastings at the Biltmore’s Antler Hill Village and Winery and peruse the lively scene of downtown Asheville. {For local recommendations for what to do and see in Asheville, follow TSG Asheville on Instagram.}

Baltimore, Maryland

Don your hats and run up your stirrups, the 142nd Running of the Preakness Stakes takes place in Baltimore on May 20. From walking tours to kick-off parties to Black Eyed Susan Day, festivities for the second race of the elusive Triple Crown trifecta will begin May 16 and continue throughout the week. On race day, country music sensation Sam Hunt will headline the infield concert and spectators can enjoy watching this historic running. {Find local recommendations for what to do and see in Baltimore & Annapolis here.}

Bluffton, South Carolina

May 13, celebrate the coming summer season with the 39th Annual Mayfest Bluffton Village Festival. This Festival provides fun for the whole family, with events including the Ugly Dog Contest and a pie eating competition, and more than 200 local artists and craftspeople showing off their work and wares. {Find local recommendations for what to do and see in Hilton Head Island & Bluffton here.}

Charleston, South Carolina

May 26 through June 11, Charleston will host the 41st annual Spoleto Festival, showcasing up-and-coming artists and performers. The Festival inhabits Charleston’s historic theaters, churches, and outdoor spaces to integrate the arts seamlessly with the city’s vibrant culture and heritage, and attendees can take in a variety of performing arts genres, from jazz to theater to dance. {Find local recommendations for what to do and see in Charleston here.}

Columbus, Ohio

Break out your best chapeau for the Franklin Park Conservatory’s annual Hat Day Luncheon on May 5th. Benefiting the Conservatory’s Pre-K and K-12 education and outreach programs, the luncheon is one of Columbus’s premier social traditions of the year, during which guests can enjoy the lush and scenic gardens. Be sure to look out for copies of The Scout Guide Columbus at the event, and enter to win the Scouted auction package. {Find local recommendations for what to do and see in Columbus here.}

Lexington, Kentucky

If you’re looking for a reason to visit and experience all the Bluegrass state has to offer, consider Derby Week the perfect excuse. On May 4, the Lexington Cancer Foundation will host the Kentucky Bluegrass Wine Auction and Derby Gala, integrating fine wines and equestrian culture and raising money for cancer research and patient care. Two days later, the 143rd Kentucky Derby will come to Churchill Downs, kicking off the first race of the prestigious Triple Crown.  {Find local recommendations for what to do and see in Lexington here.}

Northern New Jersey

Beginning on May 1 and continuing throughout the month, the Women’s Association and Morristown Medical Center will partner to present Mansion in May Designer Showhouse and Gardens at Alnwick Hall. Called “The Abbey” by locals, this designer showhouse will feature the work and expertise of interior and landscape designers alike. Another can’t-miss event for the design-inclined kicks off in the area on May 4, when the 45th Calvary House Tour will showcase five stunning Summit homes with distinctive interiors and lush gardens, making this a springtime staple on many social calendars. {Find local recommendations for what to do and see in Northern New Jersey here.}

 

Northwest Arkansas

May 3 – July 31, the Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art will host Roy Lichtenstein in Focus, an exhibit that showcases the early works of the renowned pop artist and celebrates his groundbreaking innovations in art and media. While there, don’t miss the museum’s impressive collections in their permanent gallery, and enjoy the breathtaking architecture that blends with the natural elements of the surrounding Ozarks. {For local recommendations for what to do and see in Northwest Arkansas, follow TSG Northwest Arkansas on Instagram.}