History

Mayfaire by-the-Lake
Fine Arts Festival 

Started as a small craft show on the Lakeland Library lawn in 1971, Mayfaire by-the-Lake, an Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art fine art festival, has grown to be one of the most prestigious outdoor festivals in Florida. Held each year on Mother’s Day weekend, Mayfaire is a two-day fair that attracts more than 70,000 visitors and was ranked 47th by Sunshine Artist Magazine in 2021. Every May, more than 140 artists and artisans participate in this juried competition as they share their work and wares with an enthusiastic audience of art lovers. With $17,000 in awards presented to showcased artists, Mayfaire by-the-Lake is a long-standing Central Florida tradition and a weekend not to be missed.

Our Impact

This community event supports the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art. Proceeds from Mayfaire by-the-Lake help fund scholarships for students attending our summer programs and help allow us to provide free admission for all visitors to the Museum year-round.