Lakeland's Mother’s Day Tradition, Mayfaire by-the-Lake Art Festival returns May 9 - 10

Mayfaire by-the-Lake is a two-day fine arts festival held every Mother's Day weekend on the shores of Lake  Morton in downtown Lakeland.

The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (AGB) welcomes Mayfaire by-the-Lake back to the shores of Lake Morton. This annual event in downtown Lakeland will celebrate its 54th year in 2026, taking place on Saturday, May 9 and Sunday, May 10, 2026.

Mayfaire by-the-Lake launched in 1971 as a small crafts fair on the lawn of the Lakeland Public Library, but, in the decades since, it has grown into one of Florida’s largest and most celebrated annual outdoor art festivals. Presented on Mother’s Day weekend each year, Mayfaire features more than 150 artist booths and is held on the shores of beautiful Lake Morton in downtown Lakeland.

One of the oldest arts festivals in Central Florida, Mayfaire has been ranked among Sunshine Artist Magazine’s “200 Best Art Shows” for ten years in a row.

Families can visit an expanded Ruthven’s Mayfaire Kids Zone at its new and larger location on the corner of East Walnut and Indiana Avenue for free children’s activities. Mayfaire will offer free art activities for children of all abilities, and The AGB will be open to guests.

Enjoy live musical performances and dine at specialty food trucks, offering a wide range of delectable options for everyone to enjoy.

Food Truck Vendors

• Chief’s Chill Out

• The Chick’s Coop

• Jimmy’s Famous Seafood

• Spontaneous Consumption

• Heavenly Soft Pretzels

• Chief’s Cantina

• 1 Up Burger

• Kebablicious

• Sub Zero Italian Ice

With so many works of art to choose from, you’re sure to find one you love! The artist tents feature jewelers, clay artists, painters and photographers displaying their creations for everyone to enjoy.  

Mayfaire is for anyone who loves all varieties of artwork, and is free to attend! Come see why Mayfaire is rated one of the top art shows in Florida!

Mayfaire by-the-Lake benefits Polk Museum of Art’s education and exhibition programming, including its ability to offer year-round free admission to the Museum.

The Museum also offers student scholarships and programs, and exhibitions for visitors of all ages and interests.

For more details on the art festival, check out the official website.

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