An Artful Weekend

Artists tents surround the warm shores of Lake Morton

For more than 35 years, Lake Morton (Lakeland, FL) has been overtaken on Mother's Day Weekend by artists and art enthusiasts from all over the country for the MIDFLORIDA Mayfair by the Lake.


This is widely considered the last major art show of the season in Florida. Many artists are quick to announce, they are ready to get home and often times, this translates into deals for buyers....  don't want to load up that big metal sculpture of a ballerina? I'll take if off of your hands.

Not only is the last of the season, this art show has become one of the most respected on the circuit. More than 150 artists from across the nation are here with everything from painting, mixed media art, jewelry, metal work, pottery and so much more.

Black swans, white swans, ducks, egrets and all kinds of birds also attend the show

Set on the shores of the lovely Lake Morton (downtown), spectators also get a show by Mother Nature. This area is known for its swan population and is a hot spot for migratory birds.

The art stretches around more than 3/4 of the lake, however, the center of activity is at the Polk Museum of Art, where shady oak trees keep festival goers cool while watching musicians, dancers and other entertainment on the outdoor stage.

Fun for the entire family and good for finding that perfect gift for mom this year.

Mayfair

Every Mother's Day weekend the City of Lakeland Florida hosts Mayfair On The Lake. There are street parties, road races and an art show featuring more than 180 artists. The artists tents are spread out around Lake Morton with its Magnolia and Cypress Trees, massive Live Oaks, Royal Palms, Weeping Willows and historic homes! It's not just the vegetation that gives Lake Morton fame but the hundreds of birds, ducks and swans that call the area home, if only for a season.

If you plan to go stay at the Historic Terrace hotel, in the heart of the action. The Terrace was built downtown in 1924 and sits across the street from Lake Mirror, within walking distance to the art show. Confused by all these lakes? The name of the town is Lakeland! Lake Mirror has a historic Promenade, amphitheater, gardens and lots more to explore.

From the Terrace you can also walk one block to the center of downtown and Munn Park. The park is surrounded by shops, resturaunts and bars. A quaint, close getaway from Southwest Florida!