Mayfest: Farmers and Makers Market - CLICK FOR PORTFOLIO.

Launched in 2019, the Mayfest Farmers and Makers Market quickly grew into a beloved annual tradition held each year around Memorial Day, welcoming nearly 190 vendors at its peak. From local farmers and food producers to makers and artisans, Mayfest became a vibrant celebration of the Hudson Valley’s creativity, resilience, and community spirit, running successfully from 2019 through 2024.

Mayfest holds a particularly meaningful place in our history as one of the first large-scale events permitted during the COVID-19 pandemic. At a time when local farmers and small businesses were struggling, the market provided a safe and vital opportunity for vendors to connect with the community, sustain their livelihoods, and share their goods. Just as importantly, it offered a sense of joy, normalcy, and connection during an uncertain time. That inaugural year was transformative for both Walkway Over the Hudson and the Hudson Valley Rail Trail, and support and attendance more than doubled in the years that followed through 2024.

The Mayfest Farmers and Makers Market was led by Jami Anson, Team Lead and Director of Events and Corporate Relations, overseeing all aspects of the event including staffing, design, production, vendor coordination, safety, layout, logistics, and website management.

© Photography by Jami Anson, Kiki Klag, Sally Porter, Lenscape Media, and Ethan Thompson.