May in Dundee: A Season of Creativity, Culture and Colour
From world-class exhibitions to live music, hands-on workshops and city-wide celebrations of design, Leisure & Culture Dundee is bursting with things to see and do this May.
Whether you’re planning family days out, welcoming visitors to the city, or simply looking to try something new, there’s no shortage of inspiration across Leisure & Culture Dundee’s cultural venues. Explore costume design from stage and screen at The McManus, celebrate creativity during UNESCO City of Design Month, enjoy powerful performances at Caird Hall, or get involved with workshops and events across our city!
This May, Leisure and Culture Dundee invite you to step inside, take a seat, get creative and experience the stories unfolding all around you and #CelebrateOurCity.
See below for just a handful of the amazing things happening.
McManus – Curtain Call
Step Behind the Curtain at The McManus
If you’re looking for an inspiring (and budget-friendly) day out this May, Curtain Call: Costumes from Stage and Screen at The McManus is a must-see.
Now open and running until 15th November, this captivating exhibition celebrates the artistry behind some of the most recognisable costumes from film, television, theatre and opera. From richly detailed period drama pieces to striking stage designs, visitors can get up close to the craftsmanship and creativity that bring characters to life.
Featuring work connected to major productions including The Crown, alongside pieces from leading theatre companies and designers with strong Scottish links, Curtain Call offers something for families, creatives and culture-lovers alike.
Whether you’re planning a relaxed afternoon in the city or entertaining visitors over the summer holidays, this exhibition is the perfect stop and with FREE admission, it’s easy to add to your summer plans.
Discover the stories stitched into every seam at The McManus this summer. For More information on the Curtain Call Exhibition or if you are looking to see what else is happening at the McManus Galleries, take a look at our ‘What’s On’ page today! - What's On | The McManus: Dundee's Art Gallery and Museum
UNESCO’s Design Month – May
May in Dundee is the ‘Month of Design’ celebrating design exhibitions, talks, workshops and events across the city.
Throughout the month UNESCO platform the work of designers, independent makers, cultural organisations and visitor attractions in a public programme packed full of exhibitions, talks, workshops and more!
Each event is listed on their digital ‘What’s On’ calendar and promoted on their Dundee Month of Design social media channels.
Dundee Month of Design 2025 profiled 70+ events across the city, and they aim to make 2026 even bigger, celebration of design in all its forms!
You can view all the amazing events, exhibitions, talks and workshops happening this May 2026 via the Dundee Month of Design website linked below!
Dundee Month of Design website - Dundee Month Of Design - Design Dundee
Leisure & Culture Workshops and Events This May
McManus Mondays: Up-Cycle Your Wardrobe
Monday 11th May or Monday 18th May, 5pm – 7.30pm
Unwind after hours in The McManus Museum and get creative with your clothes!
Got garments hiding at the back of your wardrobe that you love but never wear? Bright up to 2 items along and give them a brand-new lease of life in this relaxed, hands-on upcycling workshop. Led by fashion and textile designer and founder of Dundee-based sustainable label Dreamland Clothing, Ruby Coyne.
No sewing experience needed, just bring yourself, up to two garments, and a bit of creative curiosity.
Suitable for ages 16+, Max 8 participants per session, tickets: £25
Booking is essential, as places are limited!
Broughty Castle Market
Saturday 23rd May, 10am - 4pm
Discover unique, handcrafted treasures at the Yard Markets Broughty Ferry Makers Market! Enjoy original art, jewellery, sustainable goods, and delicious local food and drink. All in a vibrant, creative atmosphere outside the castle.
A perfect day out for all ages!
Adults £2 - Under 16s FREE
Caird Hall Shows Happening This May
Voyage: A Symphonic world tour with the Band of HM Royal Marines Scotland and Capella Edina – Friday 1st May, 7.30pm
Tickets: Voyage: A Symphonic world tour with the Band of HM Royal Marines Scotland and Capella Edina
Walk Right Back – The Story of the Everly Brothers – Saturday 2nd May, 7.30pm
Tickets: The Everly Brothers Story
The Music of John Williams – Thursday 7th May, 7.30pm
Tickets: RSNO John Williams
Rumours of Fleetwood Mac 2026 – Wednesday 13th May, 7.30pm
Tickets: Chas Cole for CMP Entertainment Present Rumours of Fleetwood Mac
Nicola Benedetti Play Elgar – Thursday 14th May, 7.30pm
Tickets: Nicola Benedetti Plays Elgar
Skipinnish – Friday 15th May, 7.30pm
Tickets: Skipinnish
An Evening with Louis Theroux – Thursday 21st May, 7.30pm
Tickets: An Evening with Louis Theroux
Sing The Musical – Friday 22nd May, 7.30pm
Tickets: Sing The Musicals
Too Much Too Young – Saturday 23rd May, 7.30pm
Tickets: Too Much Too Young
But that’s not all!!
- Active Dundee - Hyrox Sim
Sunday 31st May, All day. Active 9BX, RPC Dundee.
Our second HYROX Simulation event arrives at Active 9BX on Sunday 31st May. For one day only, Active 9BX once again transforms into a HYROX‑style race floor. Whether you joined us for the first simulation or you’re stepping in fresh to sharpen your prep for an upcoming event, this is your chance to test your pacing, push your limits, and experience the demands of a real HYROX race without the pressure of the official start line.
Tickets: Singles £25, Doubles £40, Half Singles £25 and Discounts for Active Dundee Members
For more information - Events | Active Dundee - Book via the Active Dundee App Today! - V&A Dundee – Catwalk
Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion show
Step into the world of high fashion this summer at V&A Dundee Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show. The show Opened on 3rd April and running through to 17th January 2027, this UK-exclusive exhibition traces over 100 years of runway history, from the intimate salons of the late 19th century to today’s immersive, live-streamed runway spectacles.
Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show
3rd April 2026 – 17th January 2027
Tickets: £7 - £16 - Members and kids go free
Website - Catwalk: The Art of the Fashion Show - Dundee Contemporary Arts
The DCA have two fantastic exhibitions opening this May that you do not want to miss out on!
Francis Dosoo: Portrait of Dorothy Gale – Saturday 16th May until Sunday 2nd August.
For More Information: Francis Dosoo: Portrait of Dorothy Gale | Dundee Contemporary Arts
Adrián Balseca: In the Forest Ruins – Saturday 16th May until Sunday 2nd August.
For More Information: Adrián Balseca: In the Forest Ruins | Dundee Contemporary Arts
Opening Hours: Tuesday – Sunday 11am – 6pm. Open late on Thursdays, 7pm.
- Dundee Rep – May Shows
The Dundee Rep offers a vibrant programme of theatre, performance and live events in the heart of the city this May. From powerful new productions to much-loved favourites, there’s something to captivate audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a regular theatre-goer or planning your visit, it’s the perfect time to experience the magic of live performances.
Find out what’s on today: Home | Dundee Rep
Looking to see what else is happening in Dundee?
To Stay up to date with What’s On in Dundee and surrounding areas, visit the Leisure & Culture Dundee’s website to find out more about what’s on this May - www.leisureandculturedundee.com/events
