Exciting Music Festivals & Art Shows This Weekend

There are plenty of music festivals, art shows, and food extravaganzas happening around the world this weekend. May 1 is also an important historical day.

International Worker’s Day began on May 1, 1886, in Chicago. Thousands of workers took to the streets to demand an eight-hour work day. Today, International Workers’ Day commemorates the struggle of workers to overcome labor challenges in both the past and the present.

Speaking of the present, North Carolina teachers walked out and are protesting today. North Carolina ranks 46th in the nation for teacher pay. The teachers are demanding higher pay, increased school funding, and better working conditions. Interestingly, North Carolina has not passed a budget since 2023.

Before we run back the calendar, Axsome Therapeutics announced this morning FDA approval of Auvelity for the treatment of agitation associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Look for a full report Monday.

The first adhesive postage stamp was issued May 1, 1840, in the United Kingdom.

Speaking of the Brits, on May 1, 1927, Imperial Airlines became the first British airliner to serve cooked meals. Good luck even getting a cold meal on a flight today.

Staying with transportation, Amtrak began operations on May 1, 1971, with its first train running from New York City to Philadelphia.

Sponge Bob SquarePants debut on Nickelodeon May 1, 1999.

Calamity Jane was born on May 1, 1852. Do you not know who she is? Calamity Jane was an American frontierswoman. She participated in Buffalo Bill's Wild West show and the 1901 Pan-American Exposition, showcasing her frontier experiences. Jane claimed a close relationship with Wild Bill Hickok, though that has been disputed by history buffs. What hasn’t been disputed is her fondness for wearing men’s clothing and drinking heavily.

Need weekend plans?

My top five suggestions are:

1. Beachlife Festival 2026 (Redondo Beach, CA) James Taylor is one of the many performers!

2. Army vs. Navy Rugby Match (Allianz Stadium, London) The stadium is only six miles from Heathrow Airport.

3. Aotcaroa Art Festival (Auckland) This is so much more than just an art festival!

4. Pirates & Wenches Weekend (Seymour, IN) Don’t miss the formal Pirates Ball Saturday evening.

5. Faerie Fest: The Flower Moon (Duncansville, PA) “magical two days”

I think that is enough fun for this Friday.

I hope you have a great weekend, no matter what you do or don’t do. The cats and I are counting the hours until Linda comes home Sunday.