Hello, May! Let the Summer Countdown Begin at MGM National Harbor

It’s officially May, and you know what that means—the countdown to summer is on! With warm weather rolling in and sunshine calling our names, there’s no better place to celebrate the season than MGM National Harbor. This month is packed with festive holidays—from Cinco de Mayo to Mother’s Day to Memorial Day—and MGM is bringing the energy with events, experiences, and flavors you won’t want to miss.

Kicking Off Cinco de Mayo in Style

I got a sneak peek at the refreshed Diablo’s Cantina—and let’s just say, this spot knows how to throw a fiesta! Picture this: salsa dance lessons, a live band setting the vibe, mouthwatering Mexican bites, and cocktails that looked almost too pretty to drink. It was the perfect way to kick off Cinco de Mayo weekend.

The venue itself is a total vibe—spacious, beautifully designed, and with outdoor seating that makes everything better. There’s just something about sipping a cocktail in the fresh air while grooving to music that makes you feel like you’ve escaped to a tropical getaway.

Looking for a place to keep the fun going into the night? Diablo’s is your go-to for happy hour, dinner, and dancing. I especially loved the Amado Mio—a bright, zesty mix of blanco tequila, orange blossom, toasted coriander, and lime. And don’t even get me started on the watermelon margarita—summer in a glass!

The New Era of Diablo’s Cantina

Diablo’s has officially leveled up with a brand-new vibe inspired by the lively party scene of Tulum. The menu is bursting with bold flavors—think G.O.A.T Toast (crystal bread with cana de cabra cheese and fig-quince jam), Not Bananas (sweet plantains, hot honey, and crispy bacon), and deliciously creative cocktails like the El Cantante, a tropical mix of aged rum, reposado tequila, mango, pepita orgeat, and lime.

If you’re looking for a spot to dance, dine, and vibe with friends this Cinco de Mayo weekend, Diablo’s is the place.

Mother’s Day, the MGM Way 

Whether you’re celebrating your mom or you are the mom (and deserve all the love), MGM National Harbor is serving up everything from spa bliss to brunch indulgence.

Over at Osteria Costa, brunch gets an Italian twist with a buffet that features everything from custom pasta dishes to savory baked eggs in spicy pomodoro and the crowd-favorite Cinnamon Roll Pizza. For $49, enjoy live music and roses for moms—plus bottomless mimosas, Bellinis, and Bloody Marys for an extra $20. Cheers to that!

Want to treat Mom to some serious relaxation? The Spa & Salon is offering “Her Day, Her Way,” a pampering package that includes a 50-minute massage, a rejuvenating facial, and an express mani-pedi. She’ll even get a bubbly toast and a special gift to take home. There's also the Shared Moments Spa Day for a memorable experience together—side-by-side massages, bubbly, mini manis, and a swag bag to go.

Outdoor Vibes & Views for Days

May also means patio season in the DMV, and MGM National Harbor is serving those outdoor vibes with style. Take in sweeping views of the Potomac River while dining or dancing under the stars at Diablo’s Cantina, TAP Sports Bar, or Felt Bar & Lounge. Want to take the fun up a notch? Try your luck at the Outdoor Gaming Terrace, where slots meet fresh air.

And don’t miss a stroll through Potomac Plaza to soak up the sunshine, enjoy the flowers, and snap a few Insta-worthy pics of the skyline and curated art installations.

Memorial Day Poolside Plans? Yes, Please.

Looking ahead to Memorial Day Weekend? MGM’s boutique-style pool opens for the season on May 31, and it's the perfect escape. It’s intimate, stylish, and just steps away from all the MGM action—making it one of your new favorite summer hangouts!

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Rainbow Kirby

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Rainbow (yes, real name) has called Alexandria home for seven years. A transplant from New York City, the charm and historic beauty of Old Town convinced her to take the leap, as did husband Drew who recently retired from the Air Force. She is mom to twin, teenage stepsons and young daughter, Indigo.

Her 20+ year career experience spans brand building, business development, content marketing and event planning for companies including Clear Channel, Runner’s World, Disney, The New York Jets and The Female Quotient. Rainbow received her Masters in Integrated Marketing from New York University, and digital marketing certification from the University of Virginia. 

As Managing Editor, she is focused on boosting engagement for Stylebook and its contributors--the local businesses of Alexandria that make it one of the best small cities in the country!

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