Lakeville’s arts and culture offerings are vibrant and diverse—whether you’re a visual art enthusiast, music lover, or someone who values shared creative experiences. Here’s a guide to everything from art festivals and gallery spaces to live performances that bring our community together.
The Lakeville Art Festival
Held each year on the third weekend in September at the Lakeville Area Arts Center in historic downtown, this festival features over 100 juried artists showcasing paintings, ceramics, glass, sculpture, mixed media, fiber arts, photography, jewelry, and more. You’ll also find live music, food vendors, artist demonstrations, and a “Young at Art” tent for kids. The layout—booths arranged in a circular pattern across grassy grounds—makes for an intimate walkable experience. Admission is free and all ages are welcome.
Recurring Community Events
Lakeville hosts several perennial festivals and cultural celebrations that highlight our local spirit and creativity:
- Pan-O-Prog: A July staple with a mix of fireworks, parades, musical performances, BOHO Marketplace, and community activities. The festival evolves year to year with new attractions like bocce tournaments, reading circles, and artisan markets.
- Taste of Lakeville: This event pairs local cuisine from more than 35 area restaurants with live music, allowing attendees to enjoy food, fellowship, and performances in one festive space.
- Live at the Lake: A summer concert series at Casperson Park Outdoor Performance Stage offering free live music on beautiful Lake Marion. Bring a blanket, grab dinner from nearby food trucks, and enjoy casual evenings outdoors.
Venues & Organizations
The Lakeville Area Arts Center, located at 20965 Holyoke Avenue, is a hub for visual and performing arts. It hosts exhibitions, workshops, camps, and seasonal programs. The non-profit Friends of the Lakeville Area Arts Center (FLAAC) makes many of these offerings possible by coordinating volunteer efforts, working with artists, and raising funds.
Getting Involved & Upcoming Opportunities
If you want to get more than just an audience experience, here are ways to plug in:
- Artist Exhibitors: The Lakeville Art Festival accepts registrations from artists each year. Booths are competitively juried, and there are options for single and double booth spaces.
- Artist Demonstrations & Community Art Projects: Many events include live demos where you can see artists in action and even participate. Community art projects often end up displayed permanently at the Arts Center.
- Volunteering: FLAAC and neighborhood festivals regularly look for volunteers for setup, guiding visitors, or assisting with youth-oriented arts activities.
Why It Matters
Cultural expression through visual arts, music, and shared events strengthens Lakeville’s sense of identity. It draws residents together, supports local makers and musicians, and gives space for creative exploration. Whether you’re buying handcrafted jewelry at a booth, hearing local bands under open skies, or watching children discover their artistic talents, it’s all part of what makes our cultural life here unique.