Register to participate in MAY'd on Gabriola 2026

When? 

The MAY'd on Gabriola event will primarily be happening on the May long weekend (May 16-17, 2026), with some pop-up events and concerts in the days leading up to the weekend.

Where?

MAY'd is a Gabriola island-wide event. Locations vary from private studios, garages, homes, local businesses and public venues such as community halls or even parks and open spaces. We welcome anyone to pop up in a space that is suited to them. When you register, let us know where on the "map" we can put your location for the May long weekend.

If you need helping finding a venue or sharing a space, reach out and we will do our best to help connect you. Email MAYdGabriola@gmail.com.

What do the fees cover?

$150 is the flat fee for a location to be included on the "MAY'd map". Registration fees are per location (whether it is a private studio or a shared space such as a rented hall). As a result, there are affordable ways to split the fee between artists/artisans and keep the costs low. Or you can open your private studio and have a dedicated spotlight on the map. Multiple good options, something for everyone!

How do I register? 

Please complete the Artist/Artisan registration form.

For musicians and performers, contact information will be available soon.

When is the deadline to register?

The last day to register is February 28, 2026.

What do the fees cover?

Registration fees support a regional marketing campaign. Our volunteer marketing team is ensuring every dollar spent is as impactful as possible. We have digital campaigns and print pieces in the works, with a special aim at arts and craft enthusiasts across BC.

We're thinking outside the box. Expect some things to look different this year.

What is expected from the artists and artisans?

We need a few rules to make this event successful:

• Location must be open from 10am to 4pm on both days. Saturday May 16 and Sunday May 17

• The artist/artisan will be present during the above hours.

• The majority of wares displayed are made on Gabriola or designed on Gabriola.

• You will ensure that the space is accessible, free of hazards and debris, and it is safe. 

• You agree to make a sign/sandwich board/directional signs to promote your space which will include your assigned venue number. 

• You will do your part to use social media, email and any other means to promote MAY'd on and off island where possible.

• You will not get all stressed out about this! 

• You will have fun and enjoy the process.

Do I need insurance?

Short answer: Yes. 

MAY'd on Gabriola is a volunteer run event and does not provide insurance or liability coverage for individual participants or locations. Registered participants are responsible for managing risk on their studio or property during the tour.

Are there other ways I can get involved?

Thank you for asking. We would love to have additional help before, during or after the event. Some volunteer roles require a car, others just require a smile and a willingness to help. Please reach out to maydgabriola@gmail.com with VOLUNTEER in the subject of the email - and we'll let you know when there are opportunities to help.

Who is organizing?

A team of volunteers are organizing MAY'd on Gabriola in 2026 (Lynn Creasy, Laura Eagin, Corinne Flaws, Mary Mitchell, and Cindy-Sue Rabinovitch). We extend our sincere gratitude to Tammie Hennigar, whose vision inspired MAY'd on The Rock in 2025, and to Carol Fergusson for the incredible work she put into creating and producing the inaugural event. We aim to continue to build on its success with this year's event. 

Questions? Email the organizing team at maydgabriola@gmail.com

Click the button below to register: