The first weekend of May means an unofficial start of summer for a lot of people. It also means the Kentucky Derby is this weekend.

If you're looking for something to do, we have you covered.

Passion and Pulse

What: Feel the rhythmic heartbeat of Brian Nabors' Pulse and the playful energy by the talented Illinois Symphony Orchestra. This concerto features Ravel's Piano Concerto in G featuring 2022 Van Cliburn Medal Winner Anna Geniushene.Guests can join one hour before the concert for a pre-concert discussion with pianist Anna Geniushene and Music Director Taichi Fukumura.

More: Tickets to this event range from $10 to $65 and may be purchased by calling 217-206-6160 for the UIS Performing Arts Center.

ROASTED

What: Join the Springfield Art Association and the historic Edwards Place for a one-of-a-kind fundraiser that's perfect for families and friends. Learn about ceramic raku and glaze a pot over dinner while the professional team fire it in an outdoor kiln. Enjoy a dinner, live music, fire-breathing performances, and see the excitement of live ceramic pot firing. Once your pot is ready to take home, the piece will encapsulate the memory of the night spent with family or friends learning a new trick.

More: Tickets for this event are $55 to make and bake a pot for adults and can be purchased online here .

Milkweed Giveaway

What: Celebrate Your Neighborhood Park Pollinator Garden with a Milkweed Giveaway. Meet with members of the Springfield Park District to talk milkweed and the importance of pollinator gardens in central Illinois, then take home some free milkweed to start your own garden.

Where: Park Pollinators can be found at the Lincoln Park Shelter, Jaycee’s Park, Erin’s Pavilion, and the Washington Park Shelter.

More: For more information where to find the pollinators or about pollination gardens, a Facebook event has been created.

Kentucky Derby party

What: Engrained Brewery is hosting a party for the most exciting two minutes in sports: the Kentucky Derby. Pick your winning horse with our honorary “bookie” with fake gambling and if your horse wins, you’ll walk away with an Engrained gift card.

More: Guests must be 21 and older.

Brinkerhoff tea party

What: Models strutting the runway are honoring the fight against Breast Cancer, as survivors walk the runway with strength and grace. A portion of proceeds supports Lincoln Land Pink Warriors, helping cancer patients in our community. Tea and afternoon snacks will be served as treats, while fashion displayed in the show will be by Shayna Gibbons Keeley Boutique.

More: Tickets are $50 per person and have a $1.25 service fee and can be purchased here .