May marks the start of summer and all of the activites that come with it for those that live in Durango. May seems to be centered around bikes and all time spent outside.
Kicking off May events is the first farmers market of the year. If you are new to town or just want to start getting out and meeting new people or taking a walk with old friends the farmers market is a great way to spend a Saturday. The early season farmers market don't carry alot in the ways of fresh veggies and fruits but they are full of homemade goods, fresh coffee and pastries, and socialization under the sun.
As far as bike events go May has some popular races amongst professionals and weekend warriors alike. May 12th features 12 Hours of Mesa Verde. It began as "Ride the Lightning" in 2003 but developed into its current 12-hour endurance race in 2007. Since its inception in 2003, the race has donated more than $350,000 to local organizations that focus on at-risk youth.
Then comes the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic on Memorial Day weekend. Its a full weekend with a professional road race, a citizens road race, kids activies and a mountain bike race.