May is already upon us, so hurry and finish taking down the Christmas lights to enjoy the last vestiges of spring before that famous River City humidity settles in for the summer. Music, motors, and much more are all coming this month, so be sure to get out and take advantage of what Henderson has to offer, even if it only means a stroll alongside the river. Here are a few unique things to do in this month as well as a few to look forward to once June rolls around:

Farmers Markets Opening Now

Feeling flustered with frozen foods lately? Canned goods becoming cumbersome? You’re in luck, because a plethora of area farmers’ markets are opening for the summer season. Come for the fruits, come for the ambiance or even come just to get away from television reruns but whatever you do, make sure you don’t let this seasonal opportunity pass you by.

The Dixie Farmers Market – no word on whether any similarly named country musicians will present – will begin running from 2:00 to 6:00 p.m. beginning April 24 and continue every Thursday in Erlanger Baptist Church of Erlanger, KY. Get in touch with Rebecca Volpe at (859) 727-2525 to learn more.

For those in the Independence, KY, area, the Simon Kenton Farmers Market begins April 26. The market will run from 8:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. every Saturday at Simon Kenton High School, allowing plenty of time for an afternoon siesta. Larry Butler at (859) 960-0218 is the man to call if you want more details.

Finally, Kenton County residents can also enjoy the Northern Kentucky Regional Farmers Market in Covington, KY. With the exception of May 17, the market will be open from 8:30 a.m. until 2:00 p.m. on every Saturday beginning May 10. Again, no worries about your afternoon nap. Call Mary Lyons at (859) 486-0058 or email her at mlyons@covingtonky.gov for more information.

International Bar-B-Q Festival

Anyone so bold as to want to participate in a 5K run/walk and then eat as much mutton as possible in the same weekend needs to attend Owensboro’s International Bar-B-Q Festival. Those interested in multiple stages of music, a golf tournament, carnival rides, pageantry, and enough hickory-smoked goodness to make a grown man cry are also welcome to the event, which runs during second weekend of May. A complete schedule of events and much more information can be found online at www.bbqfest.com or by phone at (270) 926-6938.

Homegrown Bluegrass and Creative Arts Festival

Forget those reruns of Reba – music with real twang is going to be in Audubon State Park May 16-17. Local bluegrass acts will perform, and open microphone opportunities will be available for those interested. Several booths of arts and crafts will also be featured. Bring your picks, your knits, or whatever else comes to mind or call (270) 826-2247 for more details.

Fundraiser at Big Daddy’s Boathouse

Come enjoy good food, good music, and good times for a great cause along the Ohio River at Big Daddy’s on May 16 and 17. Always-entertaining bands Casper and the Huckleberrys will be performing in the charity event for River View School, which specializes in education for students with down syndrome. Join the party at the open air venue and help support River View School by attending or calling (270) 826-2443 for more information.

Ohio Valley Cruisers 22nd Annual Downtown Car Show

Henderson’s favorite car show returns to the downtown between 3rd and 1st on Main May 17-18. The parade and cruise-in takes place on May 17, while the competition occurs on the May 18. Registration runs from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on the day of the competition, so be sure to finish clean up your favorite classic, import, or custom and cruise Main Street with the other enthusiasts. More information can be found by phone at either (270) 826-5831 or (270) 869-4699.  

City of Henderson Atkinson Park Pool Opens

Whether the calendar agrees or not, come and celebrate the beginning of summer at Atkinson Park Pool’s seasonal opening. Friends and family of all ages are welcome. Enjoy the L-shape main pool, wading pool, and mushroom waterfall seven days a week starting 11 a.m. on May 24. Those interested should call (270) 831-1230 for more information.