AMERICAS conejovalleydays.us

Ashland until Nov 1

Oregon Shakespeare Festival The cultural festival at Oregon includes Shakespearean and other classic productions. These are interspersed with works by modern and contemporary writers. Apart from this, backstage tours, play readings, lectures, and dinner at the Feast of Will add to the attraction. osfashland.org

Louisville

May 2

Kentucky Derby The Thoroughbreds run a cut-throat race for a mile and one fourth each year. Prior to this, the three-year-old horses are paraded before the grandstands to the tunes of Stephen Foster’s My Old Kentucky Home. Mint Julep is the traditional drink here for as long as one can remember. kentuckyderby.com

Puebla

May 5

Coinco De Mayo The date marks the defeat of the French army at Puebla, Mexico. The annual parade will begin at 11am and has students, military, safety personnel and traditionally dressed people march with bright floats, banners and decorated animals. Cultural shows, exhibitions and such performances will lead to the final day of the parade about two weeks in advance. mexonline.com

Thousand Oaks

May 8-11

Conejo Valley Days This year, like the past years, will have celebrities, locals and non-profit organisations come together to enjoy music, baked goods, cold confectionaries, drink concoctions, rides and games to raise funds for those in need in and around the valley.

Indianapolis

May 24

Indianapolis A car fanatic’s delight, this is where speed and passion will meet. Two weeks prior to the race will be a build-up with daily events that include five days of practice, qualifying races, concerts, autograph sessions and vintage car laps. For the less interested is the snake-pit that entertains with live-music, games and alcohol. indianapolismotorspeedway.com

St. Petersburg

May 28-July 31

Stars of The White Nights Regal and classic will come together in the form of opera, ballet, film, scarlet sails, tall ships and gunpowder fireworks — all in Russian style. Walk along the river for a show by gypsy bands, jugglers, sword swallowers, fire eaters, and Russian mimes, and at 0200 hours watch the drawbridges raise. mariinsky.us

Miami

May 29-30

Capture Miami! The Moore Building at this coastal party city will be all about artisan wines, progressive local cuisine, and creative spirits for two consecutive days. Winemakers and chefs will mingle with the crowds. VIP pass holders may enjoy afterparties and VIP previews. capturewinetour.com