‘May Fair’ Is Coming May 9-10

One of New Canaan’s best-loved spring traditions is around the corner.

May Fair

May Fair will be held May 9 and 10 at the St. Mark’s Episcopal Church midway, following the second annual White Elephant Preview Party, scheduled 5 to 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 8 (tickets here).

The family-friendly celebration, always held on Mother’s Day weekend, features rides, games, food (most notably, the Holy Smokers barbecue and the strawberry shortcake), face-painting, toy tent, live music and book and tag sales—all for a good cause, as proceeds benefit St. Mark’s ministries and special grants.

May Fair

John Kennedy, Jr., this year’s chair of the May Fair Executive Committee, said his biggest takeaway has been “the importance of people.”

“Having experienced the weeks and hours of preparation, the endless organization and details, and the hands-on hard work, I truly believe it all comes down to the connections we make,” Kennedy said in a press release. “It’s the special bond among volunteers that unites us and strengthens our community. In today’s uncertain world, working together creates joy, fosters fun and laughter, and brings happiness as a community, igniting a feel-good emotion that has a ripple effect.” 

May Fair

Committee members include Zackary Crawford, Teri Flynn, Jenn Hladick, Deb Luchs, Scot Melland, Zibby Perkins, Peter Ryan, John Seel, Cynnie Thunem, Eric Thunem and Mason Wells.

What began as a strawberry festival in 1949, May Fair has evolved into a cherished and widely anticipated community event, drawing thousands of New Canaanites and visitors throughout the event. Hundreds of volunteers ensure that May Fair always comes off (check here for volunteer opportunities).

May Fair

Here’s an overview of this year’s schedule (check the official May Fair website for more updates and details):

• May 3-6: White Elephant Tag Sale Donation Days (more information here on what can be donated and when; donations are tax-deductible)
• 5-7 p.m. on May 8: White Elephant Presale Party
• 5-10 p.m. on Friday, May 9: Friday Night Lights
• 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday, May 10: May Fair (rides until 6 p.m.)

Here’s the page to sign up as a May Fair volunteer.