Polk Museum of Art Announces New Dates for Mayfaire by-the-Lake

Lakeland, FL (March 20, 2020) – The Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College has announced Mayfaire by-the-Lake will be rescheduled for spring 2021. 

“As we continue into this unprecedented period in our collective worlds, we at the Museum have been inspired to see everyone around the globe coming together, committed to making major adjustments to their lives to help slow the spread of the coronavirus,” stated Dr. Alex Rich, Executive Director and Chief Curator of the Museum. 

“At the Museum, we have had to make some difficult decisions this past week, but we appreciate the community's understanding that we care foremost about its safety, the safety of the larger population, and the safety of our own committed staff.  Earlier this week, we decided to close the Museum until further notice as a response to the crisis.  As we have continued monitoring CDC guidelines for public gatherings, we have also made the difficult decision to reschedule Mayfaire by-the-Lake, originally to be held this May 9 and 10, 2020, for next spring 2021.”

An essential spring celebration, Mayfaire is a Mother's Day weekend tradition and a major organizational undertaking. With the help of volunteers and sponsors, the annual event brings nearly 70,000 visitors and 160 artists to Lakeland. Complete with a 5k hosted by the Lakeland Runners Club and Mayfaire Saturday Night, it is a weekend community celebration that is anticipated each May. 

“We look forward to seeing you all 'by-the-lake' May 8 and 9, 2021, for what promises — after its brief break — to be the best Mayfaire yet,” states Dr. Rich. 

In the meantime, due to the Museum’s closing precautions, through email, social media, and its website, the Museum is planning to bring art to the community and engage Museum visitors with a continuing online presence. In addition, staff is preparing for an exciting upcoming season of exhibitions, programming, educational opportunities, and, of course, Mayfaire by-the-Lake 2021. 

For any additional information, please contact Taylor Holycross at 863.688.7743 ex. 249 or by email that tholycross@polkmuseumofart.org.