Warmer spring days and Mother’s Day bring a collection of May shopping events and sales just perfect for a mom in need of a break. These elevated shopping experiences come with fun extras like drinks and nibbles and a chance to meet celebrity chefs. Plus, they are the perfect way to enjoy some time shopping alone or with your bestie. Leave the kids at home—really!

Le Creuset Factory-to-Table Sale

May 3-6 (Special ticketed VIP sessions Thursday)

National Western Complex

In a world of disposable, cheap knock-offs, and flimsy construction, Le Creuset cast iron cookware may be the last of the “pass down to the kids” family heirlooms. The cookware is loved by chefs and home cooks alike and, holy smokin’ coconut oil, this stuff is expensive.

For one weekend in May, the hearty French cookware is on sale 40 to 70 percent off at the Factory-to-Table sale at the National Western Complex. Two ticketed VIP sessions on Thursday will include chef demonstrations with the likes of Alex Seidel, Frank Bonanno, and Biju Thomas, music, light bites, and a first crack at the sales items. In addition, VIP attendees have an opportunity to buy a “mystery box” for $50 valued up to $500. Friday tickets are $10 and include hourly giveaways. Paying to shop may seem counterintuitive, but 100 percent of the ticket sales will benefit Project Angel Heart and Johnson and Wales College of Culinary Arts. VIP tickets required for Thursday sessions $25. Tickets required for Friday sessions $10; Saturday and Sunday sessions are free but require advance registration.

Denver Botanic Garden Spring Plant Sale

May 11-12 (Special ticketed preview party on May 10)

Denver Botanic Gardens York Street

If there is one thing you can say about gardening on the Front Range, it’s that it’s a practice in patience. While it’s tempting to put those tender tomato plants out on the first warm day, any seasoned Denver gardener will tell you that spring snow happens and last frost date (when it’s safe to sow summer plants outside) usually falls in May. That is perfectly timed for the annual spring plant sale at Denver Botanic Gardens. The sale stocks everything from flowers and water-smart landscaping plants to veggies, herbs, and succulents. Expert gardeners and horticulturists are on hand to answer questions and offer advice. Free admission, plants priced individually.

Balefire Goods Trunk Show

May 12, 11 a.m to 3 p.m.

Balefire Goods, Arvada

It’s true there is nothing in the world like that macaroni necklace crafted by your child’s little fingers. But, for those times when macaroni doesn’t go with your ensemble, Jamie Hollier, the shop owner of Balefire Goods in Olde Town Arvada, curates a unique collection of artisan jewelry. In addition to supporting artists from around the globe, Balefire Goods also donates a portion of their sales each month to a different nonprofit organization. For May, five percent of sales will support Go Farm. Just before Mother’s Day, Hollier gathers four talented Colorado jewelry artists and metalsmiths for a special trunk show, complete with complimentary mimosas and chocolate from the Honduras Chocolate Company. The artists will be on hand to meet-and-greet and share their latest creations.

Handmade and Vintage Markets

Throughout the month, various locations around metro Denver

As the days warm up, fun outdoor markets pop up all over town offering a mix of vintage, antique, handmade, and delicious items. Don your favorite hat and sundress for a relaxing stroll with a friend among all the pretty things. Here’s a list of some of the markets around town in May:

• Thursday Night Bazaar Shop and Sip May 3, 5 to 10 p.m., Stanley Marketplace
• Paris Street Market May 5, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m., Aspen Grove in Littleton
• Horseshoe Market May 12, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., 46th and Tennyson
• Jefferson Park Farm and Flea May 19, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., historic Jefferson Park business district
• Sweet William Market May 26, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Founders Green Stapleton