LAKELAND, Fla., May 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art at Florida Southern College invites the community to celebrate the 54th annual Mayfaire by-the-Lake®, a beloved Mother’s Day Weekend tradition where artists and art enthusiasts gather along the scenic shores of Lake Morton, in Lakeland.
This year’s festival will take place Saturday, May 9 from 9 am to 4 pm and Sunday, May 10 from 9 am to 4 pm. Festival entry is free, continuing Mayfaire’s long standing commitment to making the arts accessible to all.
Now in its 54th year, Mayfaire by-the-Lake® remains one of Central Florida’s premier outdoor fine art festivals. The 2026 event will feature over 150 artists from across the country, including 50 new artists and 16 traveling from out of state, offering a diverse and dynamic showcase of fine art across a variety of mediums.
Guests can explore artist booths set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Morton while enjoying a variety of food trucks on site, with hands-on activities for children also available, creating a vibrant and festive atmosphere for attendees of all ages.
The weekend’s events will begin with an official ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, May 9 at 9 am, marking the opening of the festival. An awards ceremony recognizing outstanding artists will follow on Sunday, May 10 at 2 pm.
“Mayfaire by-the-Lake® is more than an art festival, it is a celebration of creativity, community, and the natural beauty of Lakeland,” said Dr. Daryl Ward, Executive Director of The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art. “Each year, we are proud to welcome both returning and new artists, along with thousands of visitors, to experience this cherished tradition on the shores of Lake Morton.”
With its combination of exceptional fine art and welcoming community atmosphere, Mayfaire by-the-Lake® continues to be a signature event in Lakeland and a highlight of Mother’s Day Weekend.
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SOURCE Florida Southern College
