This year’s Mayfair Celebration at the Claire Lilienthal elementary school on Divisadero Street offers a little more than it did last year. An end-of-the-school-year treat for the kids, Mayfair could also raise a bit of money for the school. That is no small consideration these days.

Last year, the fair raised $20,000. Admission is free, but there is a nominal fee for the food and the amusements.
“Money aside, this is really a reward for the kids,” says Jeff Weiss, one of the coordinators for the event. As in years past, Mayfair is held on the Saturday before Mother’s Day.

It is open to the public, admission is free, and children from other schools are welcome. Neighbors are also encouraged to attend.

“We like people to get acquainted with our school,” Weiss says.

One of the highlights this year is a real climbing wall. It replaces the rope-climbing game from last year.

There will be a petting zoo, featuring Wilbur the lazy pig. There will also be dancing, raffles, a Hula-Hoop contest, and an array of food for purchase that has been donated by various businesses, including some Korean specialties. Arts and crafts created by the students will be on display inside the school. Live music will be provided by the Beardo Brothers.

One of the most popular amusements each year is the dunking booth. Claire Lilienthal’s principal, William Hack, is clearly a good sport, as he is once again offering himself as a dunking victim at high noon. In fact, he is the one who draws the most applause when dunked. Teachers are also fair game for a plunge into the cold water. Don’t think the students are immune to this treatment – their turn for dunking comes later in the day.

Some of the food donors this year include Irving Pizza and Let’s Be Frank, and produce and fruit is coming from the Haight Street Market. Lee & Young Orthodontics in Laurel Village, is donating an iPod as a raffle prize. Another generous donor is Jennifer Rosdail of Paragon Real Estate in the Marina.

The Mayfair Celebration will be on Saturday, May 7, from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. at Claire Lilienthal’s Winfield Scott Campus (3630 Divisadero Street at North Point). Admission is free.