Bluffton’s annual Mayfest returns after a two-year break due to COVID. What to know
Bluffton residents should start training for pie-eating contests and gather their “ugliest dogs” because the annual Bluffton Mayfest event is back on after a two-year break due to the pandemic.
Mayfest, Bluffton’s summer kickoff event also known as the Bluffton Village Festival, has taken place in the area for more than 40 years. The event was founded by local businesswoman Babbie Guscio in the late 1970s, according to previous reporting by the Island Packet and Beaufort Gazette. The event has been coordinated by the Bluffton Rotary Club since at least 2009.
It is slated to be held in Old Town Bluffton on May 7, 2022, from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., event organizers announced via its website.
Event staples from its messy pie-eating and “ugly dog” contests are back along with live music and work from local artists. Approximately 150 local food and art vendors who typically line both sides of Calhoun Street down to the May River are expected at the event selling everything from unique pottery to paintings of the iconic Lowcountry scenery.
This year, the event will feature local artist Kelly Logan Graham, who has lived in the area for more than 40 years. Graham’s work can be seen in collections all over the country and in the United Kingdom, according to event organizers. Graham paints in his home studio near the May River, which serves as inspiration for his artwork. In addition to showing off scenes from the May River, Graham will also be performing on the drums in a live performance from a local band.
Event organizers are looking for additional vendors for the event. Those interested may apply online by April 15 at https://www.blufftonrotary.org/page/vendor-information-amp-maps. Fees for food vendors range from $250 to $300, and artists pay $170.
