🎨 Mayfaire by-the-Lake 2025: Lakeland’s Premier Art Festival Returns This Weekend
This Mother’s Day weekend, Lakeland’s beloved Mayfaire by-the-Lake returns for its 53rd year, transforming the picturesque shores of Lake Morton into a vibrant celebration of art, culture, and community.
📅 Event Details
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Dates: Saturday, May 10 & Sunday, May 11, 2025
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Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
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Location: Lake Morton, Downtown Lakeland
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Admission: Free
Organized by the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art, Mayfaire has grown from a modest crafts fair in 1971 to one of Florida’s most prestigious outdoor art festivals, consistently ranked among Sunshine Artist Magazine’s “200 Best Art Shows” .Mayfaire by-the-Lake | May 10 & 11+7The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art+7Lakeland Mom+7
🎨 Art & Artists
This year, over 150 artists will showcase their work across various mediums, including painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography, and more. Each artist competes for awards totaling $17,000, with categories like Best of Show and Awards of Excellence .Visit Central Florida+16AM – LALtoday+1LkldNow
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Activities
Mayfaire is perfect for all ages. The expanded Ruthven’s Mayfaire Kids Zone, located at the corner of East Walnut and Indiana Avenue, offers free activities for children of all abilities, including:Mayfaire by-the-Lake | May 10 & 11+5Mayfaire by-the-Lake | May 10 & 11+5Lakeland Mom+5Visit Central Florida+16AM – LALtoday+1
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Kids Collect Tent: Children can purchase artwork donated by artists at nominal prices.
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Take-Home Art Kits: Four different kits available throughout the festival.
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Inflatable Yard Games: Fun and interactive games for kids .Lakeland Mom
🎶 Entertainment & Eats
Enjoy live musical performances on the front lawn of the Lakeland Public Library. When hunger strikes, indulge in a variety of food trucks offering everything from seafood to sweet treats. Notable vendors include:Lakeland Mom+1downtownlkld.com+16AM – LALtoday+1Visit Central Florida+1Visit Central Florida
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Chief’s Chill Out
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The Chick’s Coop
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Jimmy’s Famous Seafood
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Spontaneous Consumption
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Heavenly Soft Pretzels
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Chief’s Cantina
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1 Up Burger
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Kebablicious
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Sub Zero Italian Ice .Visit Central Florida+1Lakeland Mom+1
Additionally, Black & Brew’s Lake Morton location will feature a special Mayfaire Blueberry Hibiscus Lemonade, a limited-time drink inspired by the festival .6AM – LALtoday
🏃♂️ Mayfaire 5K Road Race
Join the 46th annual Mayfaire 5K Road Race and Walk on Saturday evening, May 10, at 7:00 PM. The race winds through Lake Morton’s historic district and is a staple event for local runners and walkers. For registration and more information, visit the Lakeland Runners Club website .ZAPPlication+7Visit Central Florida+7Lakeland Mom+7
🅿️ Parking & Transportation
Parking is available at various locations:
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Florida Southern College: Corner of Johnson and Frank Lloyd Wright Way, with a free shuttle to the festival.
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Downtown Lakeland: Various lots, including the northeast corner of Lime Street and Massachusetts Avenue.Lakeland MomLkldNow
Free shuttles, including The Squeeze, will operate from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, transporting attendees to and around the event, with accessible options for those with mobility aids .6AM – LALtoday
🖼️ Visit the AGB Museum of Art
Take a break from the outdoor festivities and explore the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art. Admission is always free, and the museum offers a cool respite with diverse exhibitions suitable for all ages.
🌟 Final Thoughts
Mayfaire by-the-Lake is more than just an art festival; it’s a celebration of Lakeland’s rich cultural tapestry. Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a family looking for weekend activities, or someone seeking to experience the community spirit of Lakeland, Mayfaire offers something for everyone.LkldNow+86AM – LALtoday+8Lakeland Mom+8
For more details, visit the official Mayfaire by-the-Lake website.
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