The 46th annual Bluffton Mayfest is right around he corner. Here’s what to know

For over four decades, the Bluffton Mayfest has served as a springtime tradition for residents across the Lowcountry.

With art, food and community, this festival has drawn thousands of visitors, bringing together the spirit of the Lowcountry, right in the heart of Old Town Bluffton.

The Bluffton Mayfest, coordinated by The Rotary Club of Bluffton, is held annually on the Saturday before Mother’s Day.

This year marks the 46th anniversary of the festival and The Rotary Club has stated this year’s event will bring heightened levels of fun.

From the ugly dog competition to the messy pie-eating contest, the Bluffton Mayfest offers a unique and entertaining experience for all ages.

Here’s everything you should know if you plan to visit.

When & how you can visit

• When: May 10, 2025; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Where: Calhoun Street in Old Town Bluffton

• Cost: Free

• What to expect: Over 160 artists, food vendors, activities, music & more.

Most events will be held within Historic Downtown Bluffton at Martin Family Park, Dubois Park, the Heyward House and along Bridge Street.

Event schedule for 2025 Mayfest

• The Pie Eating Contest starts at 11:30 a.m. at the Dubois Park Pavilion

• The Ugly Dog Competition starts at 1:00 pm at the Heyward House

Additionally, there will be live music on the day of the festival. Here’s the performance line-up:

Main Stage at Martin Family Park

• Lyn Avenue from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• Peach Patrol from 2 to 4 p.m.

Second Stage at Bridge Street

• Alan Price from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

• String Surfers from 2 to 4 p.m.

Parking

Parking for the festival will be available at the following locations:

• Michael C. Riley Elementary School: 200 Burnt Church Road
• Red Cedar Elementary School: 10 Box Elder Street

Shuttle services from the parking lots will also be available.

Weather

While this weekend may bring a few showers, Bluffton Mayfest has confirmed on their Facebook page that this event will happen rain or shine.

Here is the forecast for Saturday, according to the National Weather Service:

There is a 70% chance of rain with showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm before 2 p.m., then showers and thunderstorms are likely after 2 p.m. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76 degrees Fahrenheit.

To stay up to date with this weekend’s forecast, click here for the NWS outlook in Beaufort County.

History of Mayfest

The Mayfest event has been held in Bluffton for four decades. Also referred to as the Bluffton Village Festival, this event was first held in 1978 as a small arts and crafts festival to celebrate the arrival of spring.

Over the years, the festival has grown in both size and popularity.

While the event has evolved over time, it’s become a staple for the community, providing a great way for visitors to walk, stroll and shop the historic district.

For up-to-date information, please visit The Rotary Club of Bluffton. All events are subject to change.

This story was originally published May 8, 2025 at 6:00 AM.

Anna Claire Miller

The Island Packet

Anna Claire Miller is a former journalist for the Island Packet