Old Town Bluffton prepares for annual Mayfest celebration

Bluffton’s Mayfest will return May 9, bringing a full day of live music, food and longtime festival traditions back to Old Town following last year’s weather-shortened event.

The annual festival, organized by the Rotary Club of Bluffton, is scheduled from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. along Calhoun Street and surrounding areas. Admission is free.

More than 130 vendors are expected to line the streets, offering handmade goods, artwork and a variety of food. Activities will take place throughout Old Town, including Martin Family Park, DuBois Park, the Heyward House grounds and Bridge Street.

Live entertainment is a central part of this year’s event. Performances at the Martin Family Park stage will include the Bluffton School of Dance from 10 to 10:45 a.m., Exit 8 Band from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and Peach Patrol from 2 to 4:30 p.m.

Additional entertainment will be featured on the Bridge Street stage, where DJ Luke is scheduled from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.,and a performance from Muddy Creek from 1 to 3:30 p.m. Pop-up line dancing led by Heather Bartolotto and Lowcountry Line Dancing is also planned.

Festival traditions will return, including the pie-eating contest at DuBois Park and the “Ugly Dog” contest at the Heyward House. Both events are among the most popular draws each year.

Last year’s Mayfest was cut short due to severe weather, forcing an early shutdown after the event had begun. Organizers are hoping for clearer conditions this year as the festival returns to its full schedule.

Held annually on the Saturday before Mother’s Day, Mayfest has grown over more than four decades into one of the largest events in the Lowcountry.

Proceeds from the event support scholarships and community programs, according to organizers.

Festival goers are encouraged to come prepared for a full day outdoors. Organizers recommend comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen and bug spray. Dogs are welcome on a leash, and several pet-focused nonprofits will provide water and cooling stations.

Rotary volunteers will be stationed throughout the event to assist visitors.

For many in Bluffton, Mayfest marks the start of the busy spring and summer season, drawing residents and visitors alike to the town’s historic district for a day centered on community, local culture and coastal tradition.

For more information, visit the Rotary Club of Bluffton website at www.blufftonrotary.org or follow event updates on social media.