Five Things to Know for Mayfaire’s 50th Celebration

The Polk Museum of Art is busy preparing the shores of Lake Morton for the 50th anniversary Citizens Bank & Trust Mayfaire by-the-Lake. While Central Florida’s famous Mayfaire by-the-Lake had very humble beginnings as a simple craft show on the front lawn of the Lakeland Public Library in 1971, the festival expanded over the years to become an annual and beloved fine art festival for art lovers of all ages. Now, Mayfaire serves as a staple of Florida’s springtime fun. The 50th anniversary celebration scheduled for Mother’s Day Weekend 2022 is going to be the biggest celebration yet, and here are five "must-knows" before you head out to see the show:  

  1. Come in with colorful expectations! You never know what art you might find and what you might want to take home with you to add to your collection! Come in with an open mind, and a broad palette for art of all kinds, as you take a look around the festival. 

  2. Measure your walls! Looking for the perfect piece of artwork to fit in that empty spot in your home? With over 150 artists ranging in a variety of media, you are sure to find the addition you have been looking for! Come prepared with your measurements. This will allow you to find your perfect work of art and snag it before it sells! 

  3. Bring the kids! There will be new and engaging children’s activities that are accessible for children of all abilities. A new addition to the Kids’ Zone includes Kids Collect. Children will be able to buy specific artworks donated by artists at a nominal price to begin an art collection of their own. You can also expect four take-home activities for you and your kiddos to collect throughout the festival. Mayfaire’s ultimate goal is to get the community interested in arts and creativity starting with the youngest in the community. 

  4. And bring your appetite! The Mayfaire "May-fare" will satisfy all your festival cravings! An appetizing array of food trucks will present at the 50th celebration. Whether you are looking for kettle corn, a cool ice cream, or a gourmet crab cake, expect something for everyone to enjoy!

  5. Plan on experiencing more in downtown Lakeland! In addition to Mayfaire, the Polk Museum of Art will be open during the festival. Stop by to enjoy a special 50th anniversary exhibition, Walking Through Mayfaire: Festival Favorites from the Permanent Collection. Lakeland is also the home to the world's largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright architecture, which you can visit on Florida Southern College's campus located just a couple blocks from the festival. The campus boasts twelve of his buildings. Other attractions include Hollis Garden and the Frances Langford Promenade, the Lemon Street Sculpture Exhibition, the Lakeland Saturday Morning Farmers Market, the Buena Block Party, and more. You can also check out the top 5 Things to Do Before and After Mayfaire by Visit Central Florida!

We hope these five tips will help you get the most out of Mayfaire weekend! Find all of your Mayfaire resources, maps, Artist Gallery, and more by clicking the button below!