What’s on in Oxford and across Oxfordshire this May

The Enormous Crocodile is brought to life on stage in a lively musical packed with puppetry, humour and toe-tapping songs, offering a fun-filled family adventure as jungle creatures outwit a greedy crocodile.

Ballet Black returns to Oxford Playhouse with a 25th anniversary programme featuring award-winning choreography and a new commission celebrating innovation, storytelling and the company’s lasting impact on British ballet.

May Morning 2026 will be celebrated on Friday 1 May in Oxford, continuing a tradition that stretches back over 500 years. Festivities begin at dawn with the Magdalen College Choir singing from the iconic 144ft tower, followed by bells, a procession along the High Street.

Traditional Morris and Highland dancing, impromptu performances, and communal celebrations bring students, residents and visitors together for one of Oxford’s most enduring and beloved annual events. Expect hours of dancing and music throughout the city.

Once in a Lifetime brings the sound of the 1980s to the stage, celebrating iconic artists including U2, Prince and Kate Bush in a powerful live tribute performance.

Medieval jousting returns to Stonor Park this May Bank Holiday, with knights, archery, falconry and family activities at Tumblestone Hollow. Visitors can enjoy a full day of entertainment, plus access to the adventure playground, house and gardens.

Founded in 2006, The Henley Arts Trail is celebrating its 20th year. The trail was set up to showcase the amazing talent in the area. It’s gone from strength to strength and now shows the work of over 300 creatives in 36 venues in and around Henley-on-Thames. Discover the inspiration behind the work of the creatives, the techniques used and buy direct from the makers. From paintings, prints and photography to sculpture, ceramics, glass, jewellery, textiles and everything in between.

The Knights of Middle England are ready to take you back to the exciting and colourful era of the Middle Ages with their action-packed, high-octane Jousting and Stunt Show. Visitors will be transported back in time to a medieval tournament complete with authentic tiltyard, royal box, falconry, archery and hand-to-hand combat. Expect thrills – and maybe spills! – in an action-packed day of discovery.

Oxfordshire Artweeks is the UK’s oldest and biggest artist open studios and pop-up exhibition event, showcasing the remarkable visual arts, craft, and creative talent of hundreds of local artists, makers and designers over a three-week period.

As always, you can feast your eyes on a huge range of creative activities by hundreds of artists, makers and designers in artists’ studios, pop-up galleries, glorious gardens, ancient churches, medieval tithe barns and other amazing venues in Oxford and across Oxfordshire.

Discover more: Exhibitions

Metropolitan Opera presents Eugene Onegin, starring Asmik Grigorian in a powerful production of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s romantic masterpiece.

The Furrow Collective brings traditional folk songs to life through storytelling, music and visual art, blending historic ballads with contemporary creativity in performances inspired by their evolving Cantastoria project.

Oasiz brings the sound of Oasis to the stage, recreating iconic hits and celebrating the legacy of the legendary Knebworth shows with an authentic live tribute experience.

Priscilla Queen Of The Desert The Musical takes you on a hilarious, heart-warming ride, exploring identity, diversity, and self-acceptance. This sparkling musical extravaganza is packed with jaw-dropping dance routines, eye-popping costumes, and an iconic soundtrack full of your favourite 80s and 90s disco and dance anthems, including; Hot Stuff, It’s Raining Men, I Will Survive, Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, Finally and many more

The Beekeeper of Aleppo brings Christy Lefteri’s bestselling novel to the stage—a moving story of love, loss, and hope amid war, adapted by Nesrin Alrefaai and Matthew Spangler.

Dogs are welcome this May in the Courtyards, Formal Gardens and Walled Gardens at Blenheim Palace, allowing visitors to explore beautiful grounds with their pets. Facilities and guidelines ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, with cafés and shops remaining dog-friendly year-round.

Join a dazzling dozen of the world’s best professional dancers as they take to the road for the 2026 official Strictly The Professionals UK Tour. This exhilarating show will showcase the exceptional talent of 12 of TV’s beloved professional dancers, supported by incredible singers and a live band, all performed within the wonderful world of glamour and sparkle that fans know and love from the smash hit series.

The Easy Rollers bring the spirit of the Jazz Age to life with original songs and vintage-inspired arrangements, celebrating their 10th anniversary with energetic performances rooted in 1920s and 1930s jazz traditions.

Renowned TV medium Tony Stockwell brings his acclaimed Evening of Mediumship to the stage, blending humour, empathy, and intuition. Expect emotional readings, psychic insights, and spiritual connections that entertain, inspire, and offer comfort to those seeking messages from loved ones beyond.

Roll up, roll up, the Giffords Circus is back at Blenheim Palace! Step inside the tent, which is situated amongst the beautiful, ancient trees of the parkland near the Butterfly House and Marlborough Hedge Maze and enter a world of colourful acrobats, jugglers, horses, musicians and, of course, Tweedy the Clown.

Mishka Rushdie Momen performs a programme of Ludwig van Beethoven sonatas alongside Maurice Ravel’s Miroirs, showcasing a journey from classical mastery to impressionist brilliance.

C Hammersmith delivers an hour of improvised comedy rap, turning audience suggestions into fast-paced, witty performances packed with sharp punchlines and spontaneous humour.

Al Murray brings his brand new stand up show – All You Need Is Guv, with hot-takes for the masses and offering a much-needed truth tonic. With a fresh and frothing pint to hand, a barrel of laughs to pour from, and a flower in his heart, Guv is all you need.

MichaelⓇ Starring Ben celebrates the music and magic of the King of Pop in a spectacular live show. Starring Ben Bowman, the UK’s ultimate Michael Jackson tribute artist, the production features a live band, stunning costumes, and all the greatest hits.

Matt Forde returns with Defying Calamity, a sharp and witty live show blending political satire and personal insight as he finds humour and optimism in challenging times.

Based on Michael Rosen and Helen Oxenbury’s beloved book, We’re Going on a Bear Hunt follows a family on a thrilling adventure through rivers, mud and forests. Little Angel Theatre’s enchanting puppetry makes this a joyful, immersive experience for brave young explorers and bear lovers alike.

A spectacular tribute to Barry Manilow brings his greatest hits to life with a full live band, dazzling performances and timeless songs in an unforgettable concert experience.

Russell Howard returns with Don’t Tell The Algorithm, a new stand up show delivering sharp, high-energy comedy in a distraction-free setting focused purely on live performance.

The Oxford Town and Gown 10k takes place on Sunday 10 May 2026, attracting up to 6,000 runners of all abilities. Founded in 1982 in memory of Daniel Cleaver, the race continues to support Muscular Dystrophy UK, with all profits donated to the charity.

The scenic City Centre course finishes in University Parks and offers a friendly, vibrant atmosphere for first-timers, seasoned runners and fun participants alike. Join Oxford’s cherished annual event for sport, community and a great cause.

Discover more: Sporting events in Oxfordshire

In 2026, the Illegal Eagles celebrate an incredible 30 years on the road with their brand-new Hotel California Tour – featuring a full performance of the iconic album, played in its entirety — including classics like Life in the Fast Lane, New Kid in Town, and, of course, the unforgettable title track..

Rust For Glory delivers powerful live performances celebrating the music of Neil Young, spanning acoustic ballads to electric rock classics from across his career.

The Fureys return for their final ever concert as part of their Farewell Tour, celebrating decades of Irish folk music and iconic songs that have touched generations.

Join Maurice East in the lunchtime Talk: ‘Everybody Out! Industrial action in Oxford between the wars’ to discover the history of how trade unionism and working-class political activism arrived in the city of dreaming spires.

Jon Boden & The Remnant Kings bring bold folk sounds to the stage, blending original songs and traditional music with theatrical flair, featuring leading musicians from Bellowhead, Leveret and beyond in a dynamic live performance.

Horrible Histories brings Terrible Tudors to the stage with thrilling 3D effects, exploring Henry VIII, Bloody Mary and the Spanish Armada in a fun, fast-paced show packed with gruesome history and humour for all ages.

Stories of Oxford Tours are guided tours around the Museum of Oxford led by dedicated volunteer team, identifying some of the features that have made the city so special, with time for questions at the end.

Howden Abingdon is hosting a charity quiz night at Loose Cannon Brewery on Thursday, May 14, in aid of Sobell House Hospice Charity. The event begins at 6.00pm and will feature five quiz rounds for teams of up to 10 people, along with a raffle. There is no fee to book a table, and donations will be collected on the night to support the hospice’s care for local people and families across Oxfordshire.

The Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra celebrates Sir John Rutter with a special concert featuring his works alongside Grieg, Bach, Delius and Elgar, with Rutter conducting and a distinguished line up of soloists.

Midge Ure brings his visionary A Man Of Two Worlds, blending his iconic hits with the atmospheric instrumentals featured on his solo albums. Don’t miss the chance to experience a truly unique evening of music that bridges decades of creativity — a live set not just performed, but curated, woven together into one unforgettable narrative.

Horrible Histories brings Awful Egyptians to the stage with dazzling 3D effects, exploring pharaohs, pyramids and mummies in a fun, fast-paced show packed with gruesome facts and humour for audiences of all ages.

Join the next museum late event, celebrating the opening of the new temporary exhibition, ‘Community Became Home: The Journey of the Oxford Hindu Temple & Community Centre.’ This exhibition celebration will include traditional music and Bharatanatyam dance performances, henna, and the opportunity to explore the museum’s galleries and shop after hours.

Alfie is a hugely successful, multi-platinum selling artist and has enjoyed an extraordinary career spanning stage, recording, and television. This performance will see Alfie bring his unmistakable voice to New Theatre Oxford, joined by special guest, singer-songwriter, Jessica Sweetman.

The Sound of Springsteen celebrates 40 years of Born in the U.S.A. with a high-energy theatre show, bringing Bruce Springsteen’s greatest hits to life through powerful vocals, iconic instrumentation and a nostalgic journey through rock history.

Join the Museum of Oxford as they take you on a tour inside the magnificent Oxford Town Hall where you will see the Court Room and the Council Chamber.

The General Strike in Oxford will bring the experiences of those who took part in the 1926 General Strike in Oxford to light and to mark the 40th anniversary of the Miners’ Strike.

Experience Rossini’s Petite Messe Solennelle in a captivating summer concert, featuring exceptional soloists, piano and harmonium, celebrating the composer’s late masterpiece.

The Unthanks bring their genre-blending sound to the stage, combining folk, jazz and orchestral influences in a critically acclaimed performance shaped by two decades of innovation and storytelling rooted in the traditions of North East England.

Members of the Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra perform Tchaikovsky’s Souvenir de Florence and Brahms’s String Sextet No. 1 in a dynamic chamber concert, blending intensity, elegance and rich musical textures in an evening of powerful string music.

Emma Kenny returns with Killer Couples, a gripping true crime show exploring how love can twist into terror. Through chilling real-life cases, Emma examines the psychology behind couples who kill, revealing what drives passion to turn fatally dark.

World Heritage site Blenheim Palace in Woodstock is the magical location for this family-friendly fun run with a beautiful lakeside off-road section. There are three events to choose from: The main 7k, 4 miles for buggies and wheelchairs and 1 mile for under 15s. You can even take part with your dog.

The programme comprises three contrasting pieces – Coleridge-Taylor’s Petite Suite de Concert, Dvořák’s Violin Concerto with Emmanuel Bach, and Bruch’s Second Symphony – showcasing Didcot Concert Orchestra’s mission to bring tuneful classical music to delight Didcot audiences.

Austentatious is an award-winning West End smash-hit comedy. The cast will improvise a hilarious new Jane Austen novel, inspired entirely by a title from the audience and performed in period costume with live musical accompaniment. It’s a riotous, razor-sharp show where swooning is guaranteed

Exhibition on Screen: Frida Kahlo returns to cinemas with new footage, exploring the life, art and legacy of the iconic artist through expert insight, personal letters and exclusive access ahead of the Tate Britain exhibition.

That’ll Be The Day celebrates its 40th anniversary with a lively mix of rock ‘n’ roll, pop and comedy, taking audiences on a nostalgic journey through classic hits from the 1950s to the 1980s.

Alfie Boe announces a UK tour for 2026, performing iconic hits, fan favourites and new material from Face Myself, with special guest Jessica Sweetman joining the celebrated tenor at venues including the Royal Albert Hall.

Renowned for their joyous, high-energy live shows, the multi-talented troupe of singers, dancers and instrumentalists will bring a brand new production to stages across the country, putting a retro spin on everything from ’70s rock classics and’ 80s Britpop staples to today’s chart-toppers, movie themes and even video-game soundtracks.

Oxford Philharmonic Orchestra performs Ravel, Saint-Saëns and Sibelius, featuring Alexandra Conunova in Violin Concerto No. 3 and culminating in Sibelius’s powerful Symphony No. 2, a programme of elegance, intensity and uplifting orchestral drama.

James Morrison celebrates 20 years of Undiscovered with a special anniversary tour, performing the iconic album in full alongside career highlights following his recent Top 5 album Fight Another Day.

Jean-Efflam Bavouzet performs in the St John’s International Piano Series after the sad passing of Jonathan Powell. The programme links Beethoven, Hummel, Schumann, Ohana and Ravel, exploring musical connections across eras in a richly woven concert of classical piano works.

ZZ TOPPD, the Essex-based tribute to ZZ Top, return in 2026 with Can’t Stop Tourin’, a two hour live show featuring costume changes, iconic furry guitars and classic blues-rock energy, celebrating the legendary Texas band’s music and enduring stage presence.

Blenheim Palace Food Festival is back with a food festival for everyone. Expect three days of culinary thrills with a fantastic line-up of celebrity chefs and experts, amazing food and drink from a huge selection of artisanal producers and street food vendors, interactive masterclasses and tastings and plenty of fun for all the family.

Stories of Oxford Tours are guided tours around the Museum of Oxford led by dedicated volunteer team, highlighting the achievements of some of the extraordinary people from this spectacular town, with time for questions at the end.

Join the First Presbyterian Church of Charlotte Sanctuary Choir for a spirited lunchtime concert of gospels and American choral highlights by Anton Copland, Elaine Hagenberg, Hoses Hogan, Stephen Paulus and others.

Ministry of Science Live returns from London’s West End with an explosive, interactive show exploring how science shapes everyday life. Featuring live demonstrations, humour and audience participation, the team celebrates scientists and inventors while inspiring audiences to change the world for the better.

Ella Al-Shamahi explores the story of Homo sapiens in a compelling talk blending science, storytelling and humour. Drawing on evolution, exploration and human history, she reveals how our species survived, thrived and reshaped the world.

The Comedy Store Players bring their legendary improvised show to the stage, featuring stars of ‘Whose Line Is It Anyway’. Expect fast-paced comedy, audience-led games and spontaneous songs in a night of world-class improvisation.

An Orchestral Tribute to Tim Burton & Dark Fantasy by Moonlight – An enchanting live performance of whimsical and otherworldly dark fantasy film music, brought to life by the Illuminated Orchestra, beneath the glow of a giant moon.

Tenor Santiago Sanchez and pianist Christopher Glynn perform Schumann’s Dichterliebe alongside songs by Albéniz, Guastavino, Ginastera and Turina in a programme of love, longing and loss.

Join Seven Drunken Nights as The Story of the Dubliners celebrates its incredible 10th Anniversary with a night of great Irish music. The show is packed full of classics like Whiskey in the Jar, The Irish Rover, and Rocky Road to Dublin – guaranteed to get your toes tapping as they bring the joy of this much-loved Irish folk band back to the stage.

Hamza Yassin brings his first theatre tour to the stage, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, breathtaking footage and personal reflections from his global wildlife adventures in a show celebrating nature, storytelling and exploration.

The Rocky Horror Show arrives in Aylesbury as part of its world tour, bringing Richard O’Brien’s cult classic to life with iconic songs, outrageous characters and a high-energy theatrical party.

Join the iconic international West End and Broadway smash hit musical comedy Legally Blonde, an upbeat, fun story about self-discovery and challenging stereotypes.

Don’t miss the springtime Fam Jam! Dance, activities, making and sensory play for you and your little ones in a fun disco party atmosphere. Come and join the party, show off your moves and make new friends, everyone’s welcome!

The Summer Eights 2026 takes place in May over four days, from Wednesday to Saturday of the fifth week of Trinity Term. Oxford’s iconic bumps regatta is held on the Isis – a stretch of the River Thames in Oxford – with boats chasing each other in single file, aiming to catch and ‘bump’ the crew ahead.

Spectators line the banks to watch the thrilling racing, including over-bumps and the battle for Head of the River. The regatta is organised by Oxford University Rowing Clubs, the confederation overseeing all college crews and inter-collegiate contests within the University of Oxford.

Come and have a go at handling some of the museum objects at a hands-on history drop-in session at the Museum of Oxford.

Alfie Moore brings Acopalypse Now to the stage, blending sharp humour with real life policing stories as he tackles crime, culture wars and modern chaos in a witty and thought-provoking stand up show.

Step into a world of colour, sparkle, and creativity in this hands-on art workshop where young artists transform simple materials into stunning mandala masterpieces!

Rock for Heroes delivers a high-energy celebration of classic rock, featuring hits from Queen, Bon Jovi and Fleetwood Mac in a fun-filled live show with music, laughter and singalong moments.

Oasiz celebrate 30 years of (What’s the Story) Morning Glory with a UK tour featuring iconic Oasis anthems and a setlist packed with fan favourites.

London Concertante presents The Seven Sins of Tango by Candlelight, a powerful 2026 show exploring passion and intensity through Argentine tango, with live music, new arrangements and expressive dance.

Taylormania is an award-winning extravaganza that plays tribute to one of the leading contemporary recording artists of our time. Katy Ellis, with an incredible live band and dancers will perform all of Taylor’s much-loved hits including; Shake It Off, Blank Space, Love Story, You Belong With Me, Look What You Made Me Do, I Knew You Were Trouble and many, many more.

Out of the Deep is a family-friendly specimen handling and exploration of the underwater world of marine reptiles.

Pat Suet-Bik Hui & the Three Perfections showcases the Hong Kong-born artist’s mastery of painting, calligraphy, and poetry, presented alongside works by her teacher Lui Shou-Kwan and other historical examples. The exhibition highlights Hui’s contemporary approach, blending abstract ink and colour washes with poetic inscriptions exploring love, loss, and life’s quiet joys.

In Bloom: How Plants Changed Our World at the Ashmolean Museum uncovers the hidden histories behind Britain’s most beloved blooms. Explore over 100 artworks and objects that reveal how plant exploration and trade shaped landscapes, cultures, and economies – from roses and tulips to camellias and peonies.

The Bodleian Libraries’ Wonder of Birds exhibition explores art, science and culture through the lens of avian life. Featuring rare archives, manuscripts and immersive sound, it invites visitors to reflect on both the beauty of birds and their decline.