May 2–5
Some might say there is nothing more powerful than love. This age-old concept is put to the test in “The Last Romance,”a comedy presented by Talking Horse Productions at the Berlin Theatre. A lonely widower departs from the path of his daily walk, and his life is forever changed when he meets elegant but distant Carol. The couple finds happiness, but faces a series of obstacles on the road to their own happy ending. Audience members will fall in love with this heartwarming comedy.
$12; 7:30 p.m.; 220 N. 10th St.; 573-268-1381; www.talkinghorseproductions.org

May 3
The Odyssey Chamber Music Series wraps up a melodious season with a performance rooted right here in the Show-Me State. “Missouriana” is a special performance dedicated to the brilliant composers living and creating world class chamber music in our state. Go on a musical journey with intricate blending of clarinet, viola and piano, as well as the soulful sounds of the trumpet and violin. The last note of a musical season will play at First Baptist Church of Columbia.
$20; 7 p.m.; 1112 E. Broadway; www.odysseymissouri.org

May 3
Known for penning country classics such as “Honky Tonk Badonkadonk” and “Give It Away” for singers Trace Adkins and George Strait, country crooner and songwriter Jamey Johnson takes center stage at Jamey Johnson: Live On 9th Street. Critics from Esquire, Rolling Stone, The Los Angeles Times, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post have praised Johnson for his signature Nashville sound. Rain or shine, country fans won’t be disappointed.
$25; 7 p.m.; Ninth Street, between Broadway and Walnut Street; 573-874-1944; www.thebluenote.com

May 4
Turn off reality television for the night in favor of a live version, because Dancing With Missouri Stars is spinning its way to Columbia College’s Southwell Complex stage. Based on the hit ABC show “Dancing with the Stars,” this fundraising event for Missouri Contemporary Ballet will have the whole family cheering for their favorite mid-Missouri star. A variety of popular community figures, including football players and restaurant owners, teamed up with professional dancers for three months in pursuit of the DWMS trophy.
$20; 6 p.m.; Southwell Complex, Columbia College campus; 573-219-7134; www.missouricontemporaryballet.com

May 5
Check out the latest and greatest trends in kitchen design at this year’s Kitchens In Bloom. The Sunday afternoon home tour features four fabulous Columbia kitchens; each has been recently renovated. Contractors will be available at each home to answer questions. All proceeds from the event benefit the Boone County Council on Aging.
$10 in advance, $12 at the door; noon to 4 p.m.; four locations; www.BooneAging.org

May 5
Celebrate one of CoMo’s most popular bistros at The Wine Cellar & Bistro 10-Year Anniversary Party with food, fun and wine. The party features a free wine tasting, bluegrass music from Ironweed and great food prepared by the bistro’s owners and dynamic duo, executive chef Craig Cyr and sommelier Sarah Cyr. It’s a party in the parking lot next to The Wine Cellar & Bistro until 8 p.m.. Here’s to another 10 years!
Free; 5 p.m.; 505 Cherry St.; 573-442-7281; www.winecellarbistro.com

May 6
Tee off for a great cause during the Sixth Annual Coyote Hill Golf Tournament at the Country Club of Missouri. In addition to the traditional 18 holes, golfers will enjoy various contests, such as hole-in-one, longest drive and closest to the pin. A delicious lunch will be served with complimentary drinks. Even if the golfers aren’t quite up to par, everyone is a winner at this golf fundraiser. All proceeds benefit Coyote Hill Christian Children’s Home, a nonprofit organization that provides support, shelter and education for local at-risk youth.
$150 player, $600 team of four; 11:30 a.m.; 1300 Woodrail Ave.; 573-874-0179; www.coyotehill.org

May 9–12
It can be difficult to keep track of all the CoMo collegiate sporting events, but the Men’s and Women’s Track and Field SEC Outdoor Championship is a must-see. Mizzou athletes sprinted, leaped and vaulted their way to the finish line all year, but this singular event at MU’s Walton Stadium decides who is truly the king of the Southeastern Conference. Break out the black and gold and show your Tiger pride; this is Missouri’s first time hosting the prestigious track and field event.
Various prices; all day; 1401 S. Providence Road; 573-884-7297; www.mutigers.com

May 10
Best-selling author and award-winning comedian Chonda Pierce presents her own brand of clean, down-home comedy during Girl Talk With Chonda Pierce. Dubbed “The Incredible Traveling Talk Show,” this production might make you laugh, cry or do both at the same time. Take your daughter, your book club or your girlfriends to Missouri Theatre for a night of laughter and country charm.
From $23.50; 7 p.m.; 203 S. Ninth St.; 573-882-3781; www.concertseries.org

May 10–17
Foodies and wine lovers, rejoice! The annual Inside Columbia’s Wine & Food Festival boasts a variety of scrumptious events, including three wine dinners by Columbia’s shining culinary and design stars, and an afternoon of luscious chocolates. Wine lovers receive the VIP treatment during The Grand Tasting, an elegant gala featuring more than 400 incredible wines. Foodies are invited to relax and enjoy a fabulous dinner by celebrated Chef Lou Rook.
Prices, times and locations vary; 573-442-1430; www.ColumbiaWineFest.com


May 11
Follow the trail of breadcrumbs to the witch’s house during the Missoula Children’s Theater musical “Hansel and Gretel” at Jesse Auditorium. Attendees beware: Don’t expect the traditional German fairytale. This original, modern adaptation features Hank and Gretchen, two kids who are down on their luck until they are taken back in time to the extraordinary, Wildwood world of Hansel and Gretel. Unravel the secrets of their journey in this light-hearted family production.
$7 children, $12 adult; 3 p.m. or 6 p.m.; Jesse Auditorium, MU campus; 573-882-3781; www.concertseries.org

May 11
Don’t miss the chance to spend Saturday with the smooth vocals of Ben Rector at The Blue Note. Rector released his fourth album in 2011 and topped the iTunes Singer/Songwriter charts with his hit single “The Beat.” Described as a classic 1940s crooner combined with the modern pop star, this versatile singer and his infectious sound make his concert a best bet. If his previous records weren’t enough of an incentive to attend, concertgoers can expect to hear cuts from his unreleased album.
From $15; 8:30 p.m.; 17 N. Ninth St.; 573-874-1944; www.thebluenote.com

May 12
Tasty delights await at the Mother’s Day Brunch Buffet at Les Bourgeois Vineyards’ Blufftop Bistro. Indulge Mom with a lineup of delectable offerings from the bistro’s chef, accompanied by the winery’s famous Bistro Mary — or even a Mimosa or Espresso Martini. Reservations are recommended for this memorable holiday brunch.
$12 children, $22 adults; 11 a.m.; 12847 W. Highway BB, Rocheport; 573-698-2300; www.missouriwine.com

May 13
On any trip through The District, you might notice painted traffic boxes, tucked away sculptures or even a mural or two. But there are probably a few works of art you have never noticed in the public art gallery that is downtown Columbia. Join Chris Stevens, manager of Columbia’s Office of Cultural Affairs, for a Walking Public Art Tour. The event is a part of Bike, Walk & Wheel Week.
Free; 6 p.m.; 101 S. Fourth St., Flat Branch Park; 573-874-6386; www.GoColumbiamo.com/Arts

May 17
Here comes the windup and the final pitch as the University of Missouri baseball team finishes its regular season against the Kentucky Wildcats. The Kentucky team will do its best to strike out the Tigers in this fierce battle of the big cats. Take your family out to the ball game; Tiger baseball games are always fun for the whole family.
$5; 6 p.m.; Taylor Stadium at Simmons Field, Research Park Drive; 573-884-7297; www.mutigers.com

May 17–19
Snowstorms and tailgates, final exams and construction projects — it has been a wild four years (or so) for students at Mizzou. Now, the stage is set for more than 15 University of Missouri Commencements, during which graduates celebrate their accomplishments and their time spent here in Columbia. Grab your Sunday best black and gold, and join this year’s newest crop of graduating Tigers, when they leave campus with a roar.
Tickets may be required; various times and locations; www.commencement.missouri.edu

May 18
Make some noise and get in the rhythm at DrumSTRONG Columbia. The musical fundraiser takes place at Missouri United Methodist Church as a part of a national weekend of DrumSTRONG celebrations, aimed at beating cancer. The two-hour, nonstop event features a celebration drum circle. Musical attendees are invited to participate with the available world percussion instruments, or drummers are welcome to bring their own noise. All proceeds from the rhythmic fundraiser benefit the Susan G. Komen Mid-Missouri Affiliate.
Free; noon; 204 S. Ninth St.; 573-445-5882; www.drumstrong.org

May 22–25
The 35th Annual MidwayUSA & NRA Bianchi Cup National Championship is right on target as one of the premiere shooting events in the country. Speed and accuracy are the key factors for participants who hope to take home the world-famous trophy for the National Action Pistol Championship. Spectators at the Green Valley Rifle and Pistol Club might even run into some international aficionados during the contest, which has attracted talented competitors all the way from Germany, Australia and Japan.
Free for spectators; all day; 4350 Academy Road, Hallsville; 573-696-3738; www.competitions.nra.org

May 25–26
Excitement will fill the skies over Columbia again this Memorial Day weekend during the 25th annual Salute To Veterans celebration. The highlight of the weeklong festivities is the two-day free air show at Columbia Regional Airport, featuring more than 50 current and vintage military aircraft on display and performing in the air, plus a never-before-seen joint parachute jump by the All Veteran Parachute Team and the Canadian Forces Skyhawks. Park free at the airport or catch a shuttle from the Hearnes Center for $3 round-trip.
Free; 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; 11300 S. Airport Drive; www.salute.org

May 27
The 25th annual Memorial Day Parade gets a jaw-dropping jumpstart when the All Veteran Parachute Team and the Canadian Skyhawks parachute into downtown Columbia. A 165-unit lineup of veterans, military units, floats, bands and reunion groups from across the country will wend its way through the city as aircraft from the weekend air show fly overhead. A wreath-laying ceremony will follow at the Boone County Courthouse.
Free; 9:55 a.m.; Broadway in downtown Columbia; www.salute.org

May 28
The Columbia Cabaret Singers present an evening of song and dance and laughs at Spring Festival 2013, a benefit for The Food Bank for Central & Northeast Missouri and PET MO-Columbia. Emcee Wally Pfeffer takes the stage at the Missouri Theatre to coordinate a lineup that includes Genie in the Radio and Mademoiselle Fifi’s Cabaret, as well as performers from Studio B Dance Center and Steppin’ Out Dance Studio. One lucky member of the audience will go home with a new 40-inch Vizio flat-screen TV. It’s all in good fun for two good causes.
$10 in advance, $12 at the door; 7 p.m.; 203 S. Ninth St.; 573-882-3781; www.concertseries.org

May 30
Finish a hectic month with a play that is sure to have audience members rolling in the aisles of the Columbia Entertainment Company Theater. “See How They Run”features a cast of colorful characters who run in and out of a vicarage with hilarious tales. Four men dressed in suits try to sort out eccentric characters and rousing stories to determine which one is an escaped prisoner. This fast-paced play offers a night of entertainment that will leave you breathless with laughter. No running shoes required.
$10; 7:30 p.m.; 1800 Nelwood Drive; 573-474-3699; www.cectheatre.org

May 30
Here’s a toast to the Roast of Don Laird, presented by KOMU-TV8, at the Holiday Inn Executive Center. A hilarious evening of puns and pundits features a roast of the former Columbia Chamber of Commerce president. But don’t feel too bad for him. This evening of laughter benefits the Alzheimer’s Association Greater Missouri Chapter, which helps mid-Missouri Alzheimer’s patients and their caregivers understand and combat condition together.
$100; 6 p.m.; 2200 I-70 Drive S.W.; 573-443-8665; www.alz.org/mid-missouri

May 31
Join the fight to celebrate more birthdays at the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life of Boone County at the Columbia Mall. This emotional and inspiring event begins at 6 p.m. with a high-energy kickoff that is quickly followed by the Survivors Lap. This emotional walk is an opportunity for cancer survivors to celebrate their victory. The highlight of the night occurs during the closing ceremony at 5:45 a.m. when participants walk with a true purpose to end the disease. Family, friends and all supporters of cancer research are encouraged to come together to raise money for cancer research.
Donations encouraged; 6 p.m.; 2300 Bernadette Drive; www.relayforlife.org/boonecomo

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