Mother’s Day is just around the corner, but there’s nothing stopping you from celebrating early! May is upon us and there’s so much to explore in the surrounding areas. Here’s a look at some of our top picks for the weekend:

Warrior Kitchen with Chef Irvine: Join Armed Forces Entertainment and celebrity chef Robert Irvine this weekend for a unique, interactive culinary experience. Irvine will visit Knight’s Lairs Dining Facility on Smith Barracks in Baumholder on Friday from 4:30 to 6 p.m. and Rheinland Inn at Ramstein on Sunday at 11 a.m. Normal dining facility rates apply for meals, but there are no additional charges for the events.

Freisen Medieval Market: Escape into the past at the largest Middle Ages festival in Rheinland-Pfalz from Friday to Sunday. Experience live demonstrations, games, musical performances and a knight tournament at the Wildpark Freisen, about 30 minutes northwest of Ramstein. Tickets start at 10 euros for children, and there’s free entry for all guests 14 and under in period costume. Click here to read more about one Striper’s experience last year.

Sickingen May Market: Five days of celebration and fun kickoff tonight in Landstuhl with a fireworks display and continue through Monday with carnival rides, vendors, live entertainment, and a new beer and wine garden. Visit the town website for a full schedule of events and activities.

Mother’s Day Gifts: Don’t wait until the last minute to grab something for Mom! Head over to the Ramstein Arts & Crafts Center on Saturday for their children’s “ Gift for Mom- Paint & Me” event from 10 to 11 a.m., and an embroidered napkin workshop from noon- 2 p.m. Click here for registration and fee information.

Sunday Shopping in Saarbruecken: A rare chance to get your Sunday shopping fix in awaits about an hour to the west in Saarbruecken. Grab a coffee at St. Johanner Markt then shop till you drop from 1 to 6 p.m. Discover a new independent boutique or other hidden gem with a browse through the city’s shopping guide.

K-Town Fun