Mayfaire by-the-Lake 2023 dates, activities set
The Polk Museum of Art will host the 51st annual Citizens Bank & Trust Mayfaire by-the-Lake festival along the shores of Lake Morton May 13 and 14, 2023, from 9 am to 4 pm. That’s Mother’s Day Weekend.
Showcasing over 150 artists from nine states working in a variety of media, from painting and sculpture to woodworking, hand-crafted jewelry, and more, this free two-day fine art festival promises to have something for every art enthusiast and visitor to enjoy.
In addition to the artists’ booths, this year’s celebration will include a robust daily event schedule, including fun activities for everyone of every age. “Kids Collect,” a kids-only tent where children can purchase artwork donated by Mayfaire artists at nominal prices, returns to the Ruthven’s Mayfaire Kids Zone to engage even the youngest of art connoisseurs. Free hands-on art activities for children of all abilities will also be available at each Kids Zone tent.
Performances by FrediDANCE Project, Samira Belly Dance, and Musical Hammers, among others, will also be held throughout the weekend on the Lakeland Public Library lawn. Concessions will be available for purchase from Jimmy’s Famous Seafood, Chicks Coop, Heavenly Pretzel, and more.
At the Museum, visitors will be able to re-experience festivals of yore with “A Blast from the Past: Festival Favorites from the Permanent Collection” on display in the Murray/Ledger Gallery, highlighting past festival winners.
Mayfaire By the Lake, Lakeland, Florida
On Saturday evening, Mayfaire welcomes back the Lakeland Runners Club to host the 44th Annual Mayfaire 5K. The run begins at 7 p.m. near Lake Mirror and ends on Francis C. Promenade. Interested participants can register online or volunteer for the run at https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Lakeland/Mayfaire5k. Registration will close Wednesday, May 10.
Additional information about this year’s Mayfaire Judge, Featured Poster Artist, and event details are available on MayfairebytheLake.org in the coming weeks.
About the Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College
The Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College is a not-for-profit, academic and community museum that seeks to enhance lives through inspirational and engaging art experiences for all. It is the largest and only nationally accredited visual arts organization in Polk County and the only Smithsonian Affiliate art museum in Central Florida.
The Museum is currently embarking on a $8 million expansion and renovation project, adding more than 14,000 sq. ft. of education and exhibition space, including six new galleries, as well as multi-functional classroom and event spaces. The expansion and renovation is expected to begin in Summer 2023, with project completion in Fall 2024.
The Museum’s hours are Tuesdays–Saturdays 10 am to 4 pm, Sunday 1 pm to 5 pm, and closed Mondays and major holidays. The facility is handicap accessible and special needs assistance is available.
Admission is free, thanks to our Strategic Partner, the Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Foundation.
By Chadd Scott