For something fun to do with Mom during Mother's Day weekend, these festivals and events in the Southeast are good choices for a weekend getaway, day trip or special outing. To find out about more festivals and events taking place in May, visit the Spring Festivals and Events Guide.
Also see: Mother's Day - Ten Great Ideas for Day Trips and Weekend Getaways
1. Georgia Renaissance Festival
A Camelot Experience for Mom in Fairburn, Georgia: April 12 - June 1, 2008 on Saturdays and Sundays plus Memorial DayLocated just minutes south of Atlanta, the annual Renaissance Festival features eight weeks of weekend spring fun including colorfully costumed performers and nonstop entertainment, an Artisan Market, thrilling rides and games, parades, great food including the popular Ren-Fest turkey legs, jousting contests, period activities and much more.
2. The Carthage Buggy Festival
A Day in the Country for Mom in Carthage, North Carolina: May 9 - 10, 2008Each year, beginning on the Friday evening before Mother's Day weekend, Carthage, North Carolina (located eight miles north of Pinehurst) celebrates its rich history and the famous Tyson and Jones Buggy Factory with a county community festival. The Arc of Moore County BBQ Cook-off takes place on Friday and the festival offers gospel, country and rock music as well as food and craft vendors, children's entertainment and more.
3. Bravo Arts and Cultural Festival
For mothers who love the arts and the beach at Hilton Head Island, South Carolina: Throughout May, 2008 - Hilton Head Island, South CarolinaVisual and performing arts events, cultural activities and special programs highlight the vibrant arts community and diverse cultural heritage of Hilton Head Island and the Lowcountry during this popular festival, which is one of Hilton Head Island's annual highlights.
4. Mayfest at Pilot Mountain
A Festival for mountain lovin' moms at Pilot Mountain, North Carolina: May 9 - 11, 2008Each Spring during Mother's Day weekend, several streets in Pilot Mountain are closed to traffic for this annual festival featuring arts, crafts, and food vendors, live entertainment, a classic car show and an antique tractor show plus rides and games for kids.
5. Aiken Bluegrass Festival
Three days of great bluegrass in Aiken, South Carolina: May 8 - 10, 2008Enjoy an all-star line up during two days of bluegrass music, presented by a variety of performers.
6. Mount Vernon’s Spring Garden Party
Celebrate Mother's Day at an old-fashioned garden party: May 10 - 11, 2008Mount Vernon presents a festive Spring Garden Party, including music and activities in each of the gardens. On Mother’s Day, visiting moms will receive a sachet from Mrs. Washington's garden (while supplies last). On Sunday only, the Mother of Our Country shares her insights as mother to her children, grandchildren, and her country in the Little Theater at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., and 3 p.m. in the Little Theater.
7. PANorama Caribbean Music Fest
Go Caribbean with Mom at Virginia Beach, Virginia: May 9 - 11, 2008Celebrate the music and culture of the Caribbean at Virginia Beach, where musical performances and steel drum competitions will take place throughout the weekend as part of the Virginia Arts Festival.

