Historic Folsom is gearing up for a lively month of events this May, offering a wide variety of entertainment, community activities, and cultural experiences for all ages. From live music and dance to charitable walks and family festivals, the district will be bustling with activity throughout the month.
The festivities begin on May 2 with A Midsummer Night’s Dream: A Live Music and Dance Experience at the Zittel Family Amphitheater from 6 to 8 p.m. This free community event brings Shakespeare’s beloved story to life with a vibrant and contemporary twist. Set against the evening sky, the production features music from artists such as David Bowie, Kelly Clarkson, and Mumford & Sons, as dancers and performers blend live storytelling, movement, and song. Attendees are encouraged to bring low-backed chairs or blankets for seating on the amphitheater lawn.
On May 3, Historic Folsom welcomes families to the Balance Bike Bash during the Folsom Pedal Quest. Scheduled from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. along the 700 block of Sutter Street, this event is designed for young riders ages 3 to 6. Children are invited to navigate a specially designed balance bike course to celebrate mobility, activity, and the excitement of riding. Registration is free, and prizes will be awarded throughout the morning, making it an ideal outing for little adventurers and their families.
The following day, May 4, the district plays host to two notable events. Beginning at 8 a.m., participants will gather at the Sutter Street Plaza near the historic Railroad Turntable for Walk MS: Folsom 2025. The walk offers two route options—a 1-mile and a 3-mile course—through the charming streets of Historic Folsom. Proceeds from the event support research and services for those affected by multiple sclerosis. Registration for walkers remains open, with all proceeds going to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.
Later that day, from 2 to 5 p.m., the Boot Scoot Scavenger Hunt will take place, benefiting Animal Outreach of the Mother Lode. Participants will check in at The Square, formerly known as Pioneer Village, located at 196 Wool Street. For a $20 entry fee, attendees will explore local merchants in Historic Folsom, searching for hidden boot bouquets among their offerings. Each discovered boot earns a stamp on the Scoot Card, translating into raffle tickets for exciting prizes. The event culminates with a prize raffle at 5 p.m. at the Folsom Hotel, offering a fun-filled way to support animal rescue efforts while enjoying the shops and spirit of the district.
On May 10, community spirit will be on full display during the Light Up The Dark Music Festival. Hosted by Powerhouse Ministries from 5 to 9 p.m. at the Zittel Family Amphitheater, the 8th annual festival aims to bring light and hope to those experiencing darkness, addiction, or hardship. The free, family-friendly evening features a lineup of live music performances from local artists and inspiring stories of resilience and recovery, all set against the backdrop of Historic Folsom’s vibrant plaza.
Music lovers will not want to miss the Folsom Lake Symphony Twilight Delight concert on May 17. Beginning at 8:30 p.m. at the Zittel Family Amphitheater, the free outdoor performance continues a beloved tradition by combining upbeat selections from Broadway, Hollywood, and popular music with moving tributes to the Armed Forces. Concertgoers are encouraged to arrive early, as seating opens at 7:15 p.m. Low-backed lawn chairs are recommended, and parking is available nearby at 905 Leidesdorff Street for a suggested $5 donation.
Historic Folsom will close out the month with classic Shakespearean drama as the Take Note Troupe presents Much Ado About Nothing on May 30 and May 31. Performances take place at the Zittel Family Amphitheater from 7:30 to 10 p.m. both evenings. The talented local troupe brings one of the Bard’s most beloved comedies to life with energy, humor, and period costumes. Audiences of all ages are invited to enjoy the free open-air performances, with ample space for lawn seating and family gatherings.
Throughout May, the district’s popular Saturday Farmers Market continues to thrive, bringing fresh produce, local crafts, live music, and artisan goods to the Historic Folsom Station Public Plaza every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. The market is one of the region’s most celebrated weekly gatherings, supporting farmers and small businesses while offering visitors a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere in the heart of town.
For more information about these events and other upcoming activities in the Historic Folsom district, visit historicfolsom.org. For more area events in and outside of Folsom, visit the Folsom Times Community Calendar HERE, where you can learn of upcoming events and also enter your own community events for publication.
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