Living History
Work & Ways of 1776
Demonstrations and hands-on moments inspired by coastal life—waterfront skills, farm work, and everyday trades.
Save the Date: May Faire 2026 — Mathews Museum Celebrates VA250 — May 2–3
Save the Date: May Faire 2026 — Mathews Museum Celebrates VA250 — May 2–3
Save the Date: May Faire 2026 — Mathews Museum Celebrates VA250 — May 2–3
Save the Date: May Faire 2026 — Mathews Museum Celebrates VA250 — May 2–3
Save the Date: May Faire 2026 — Mathews Museum Celebrates VA250 — May 2–3
May Faire
Mathews Museum Celebrates VA250
May 2 & 3, 2026 9AM–5PM | Mathews Court Green
May Faire 2026
A Coastal Celebration of America’s 250th
For nearly a decade, May Faire has brought families to the heart of Mathews each spring—drawing neighbors and visitors to Court Green and Main Street for a weekend of music, makers, food, and shared tradition.
In 2026, as America marks its 250th anniversary, the Mathews Museum celebrates VA250 with a hands-on weekend of demonstrations, interactive activities, entertainment, and coastal storytelling—highlighting the spirit and heritage of our community.
See ActivitiesA Weekend of Activities
Step into Mathews as it might have felt in 1776—coastal work, homefront skills, public debate, and hands-on history throughout a strollable, discoverable weekend.
Families & Children
Apprentice for a Day
Colonial games, open-ended maker stations, and “learn-by-doing” activities for curious kids and families.
Music & Merriment
Sounds on the Green
Fiddle tunes, coastal rhythms, and community performances woven throughout the day.
Signature Event
The Great Pound Cake Contest
Bakers bring their very best to compete for bragging rights and blue ribbons. Come cheer, sample, and celebrate this beloved May Faire tradition.
Makers & Merchants
Artisan Market
Curated vendors with handmade goods, heritage crafts, and coastal finds—shop and meet the makers.
Inside the Museum
Exhibits & Interactive Experiences
Step inside for featured exhibits, hands-on displays, and rotating activities—plus mini workshops and demonstrations throughout the day.
Behind the Theme • Battle of Cricket Hill • 1776
In July 1776 — just days after the Declaration of Independence was proclaimed — Virginia patriots turned their attention to Gwynns Island. There, at what is often referred to as the Battle of Cricket Hill, colonial forces confronted the fleet of Lord Dunmore, the last royal governor of Virginia. The engagement forced Dunmore’s departure from the Chesapeake and marked the effective end of British control in the region. For Mathews and its surrounding waterways, it was a defining moment — a declaration not only on paper, but on these very shores.
May Faire 2026
Become a Vendor
May Faire brings families, visitors, and locals to Court Green and Main Street for a weekend of music, makers, and coastal tradition. If you make it, grow it, cook it, or create it—this is your audience.
High-traffic weekend
A walkable, family-friendly event with built-in browsing energy.
Clear categories
Apply under the vendor type that fits you best (arts, food, info).
Community + mission
Your participation supports the Mathews Museum and VA250 celebration.
We make it easy
Simple application + quick follow-up with next steps.
Support the Weekend
Sponsor May Faire
Sponsorship helps fund music, children’s activities, demonstrations, and the museum’s year-round work—while giving your business meaningful visibility in a joyful, community-centered environment.
Local Visibility
Connect with families, visitors, and regional guests throughout the weekend.
Mission Alignment
Support the Mathews Museum and Virginia’s 250th anniversary celebration.
Flexible Levels
Choose a sponsorship tier that fits your business and goals.
Community Goodwill
Be recognized as a business investing in culture, heritage, and families.
Stay Connected
Join the May Faire List
From schedule announcements to behind-the-scenes history, we’ll share important updates as we prepare to commemorate 250 years of Mathews history.
A few thoughtful emails. No spam. Just community.
