What's On in Lisbon in May 2026: The Best Events, Festivals and Experiences
Here’s how to spend May 2026 in Lisbon
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May in Lisbon is a full month: festivals spill into the streets, design takes over entire palaces, and the city's cultural calendar hits its stride. From electronic music on the beach to independent cinema, guided journaling and gelato worth queuing for, here is everything on our radar this May.
Stop by Agência Bar
In São Bento, Agência Bar draws you in with
its intimate, laid-back atmosphere and a
flavour-led cocktail menu.
Tiny House Escape
Spend a weekend away from the city, in nature for a true reset. Discover T
he Lognest cosy cabins, just 40 minutes outside of Lisbon.
MOGA Festival, Caparica
From May 27th to 31st, experience an electronic music festival, with free events, before its main beachfront weekend.
Guided Journaling Workshop
Slow down at the Good Company Bookstore, with a guided writing session, reflection prompts and coffee on May 3rd.
Um Domingo na Avenida
A relaxed open-air experience on May 3rd, blending gastronomy and music with dishes from top Lisbon restaurants.
Independent Film Festival
Taking place across key cinemas including Cinema São Jorge, Culturgest, Cinema Ideal, and Cinemateca Portuguesa, until May 10th.
Experience Open Houses All Over Lisboa
Step inside Lisbon’s most fascinating buildings for a rare, free behind-the-scenes experience, on May 9th and 10th. Over 70 places are on the list this year.
Bad Bunny In Lisbon
Bad Bunny arrives to Estádio da Luz on May 26th and 27th, bringing his high-energy world tour to Lisbon.
Casa Bonita at 8 Marvila
Lisbon-based band bringing danceable sounds and immersive live sets to 8 Marvila.
Umami Veggie Food Festival
On May 16th and 17th, experience a vibrant open-air celebration of plant-based food, street eats and music.
KĀYO in the Woods
A forest open-air festival blending electronic music, wellness and nature, happening from May 1st to 3rd.
Lisbon by Design is Back
For its 6th edition, Lisbon by Design is taking over the full Palacete Gomes Freire with craft and collectible design. From May 26th to 31st.
V Rooftop Bar
Enjoy a stylish, intimate rooftop setting with cocktails by Luís Levy, inspired by Portuguese flavours and local spirits.
Brera Gelateria
A design-forward gelato spot in Baixa serving artisanal Italian ice cream with rotating, seasonal flavours and a creative twist on classics.
Lisbon Design Week
Don’t miss five days of creativity, craftsmanship and contemporary design across the entire city,
from May 27th to 31st.
Oceanário de Lisboa
Perfect for a day with the whole family, discover thousands of marine species in one of Europe’s most impressive aquariums.
Rookie Run Club
Join weekly social runs through the city with post-run coffee or juice and a welcoming community vibe, every Wednesday and Saturday.
Luka Lisboa
A pan-Asian spot serving flavour-packed dishes from Thai Ceviche to Pad Thai.
Underdogs Gallery
Discover a rotating exhibition of contemporary urban art and experimental works in Marvila, on view until May 25th.
If you enjoyed this article, you should check out our Lisbon Wine Bar Guide, Brunch Guide, news about the city and more Lisbon Guides.
