From crocheted stuffed animals to homemade pickles and original artwork, Historic Smithville once again hosted another successful Mayfest. The two-day event, held Saturday and Sunday, May 17-18, featured over 100 vendors, an international food court and a lineup of live music that kept the atmosphere exciting over the weekend. Drawing a crowd of around 10,000 people, the event provided family-friendly activities such as carnival games, sand art stations, paddleboat rides and lots of shopping. Visitors also enjoyed a wide variety of food and beverages from multiple local vendors and food trucks.
“Oh, I love the Mayfest. It’s such a great place and the shopping is so nice,” said Maria Zampolino, a Smithville resident. “I walk over every year.”
The visitors range from Smithville locals all the way to Cape May residents. It’s an event for everyone, and the vendors appreciate the exposure and fun atmosphere. Dakota Palumbo and Jack McLaughlin, owners of Philly Bill’s Dills, were excited to sell at Mayfest this year.
“My dad started this, and we’ve been doing it for over 10 years now,” Palumbo said. The pair produces homemade pickles and made sales early in the day. Philly Bill’s Dills participated in the two-day event, stating that it’s the welcoming environment that makes Smithville a great place for events like these. They noted that events in Smithville consistently provide opportunities to connect with new customers and brand their small business.
“It feels fun, and honestly, it doesn’t even feel like work half the time,” said McLaughlin.
Other vendors showed their appreciation and eagerness to sell their craft because of the supportive community. Spoonable Spirits, established in 2018, was another popular vendor at this year’s event. Lines formed as the dessert liquors piqued the interest of curious customers.
“This is my first year doing the Mayfest,” said owner Kelli Lipson. “My friends did it, so I signed up.” The seller admits it’s the community support that excited her about the event. “It’s a great community and great event, so I’m excited to see what the weekend will bring,” she said.
Not only was Mayfest a great success for the more than 100 vendors, but it brought in significant foot traffic for the home storefronts as well. Raquel DeFino, owner of Raquel’s Home and Garden, celebrated her 15th Mayfest this year. The storefront, which opened in 2010, sells a multitude of decorative garden pieces and vintage-inspired jewelry and clothing. When asked what brings people to the Mayfest year after year, the owner pointed out that the strong sense of community and the support for small businesses were the festival’s biggest attractions.
“People are looking for something to do,” DeFino said, “and I think they are looking to support independently-owned small businesses.”
While business owners appreciated the support from the community, attending families also had plenty to say about their time spent at Mayfest. Many were excited to walk around the town and for the chance to spend their day together as a family. Mayfest acted as a great way to spend quality time together shopping, eating, and playing. One family noted that their children look forward to Mayfest every year.
The success of the event showed yet again why Mayfest is such a loved tradition in Historic Smithville. Every year, it brings the community together in an effort to support independently-owned businesses, allowing families and friends to spend quality time with one another. Organized by Smithville’s very own Colonial Inn, the Mayfest continues to be a tradition to look forward to.
Rebecca Oldham is an emerging journalist and writer located in South Jersey’s Pine Barrens. She enjoys writing about the arts and all things community.
