Artistic rendering – Event may differ
CenterFest
50th anniversary celebration of Durham's signature fine arts festival.
About
CenterFest returns to downtown Durham for its 50th anniversary, showcasing a vibrant celebration of arts and community. Explore a dazzling array of juried visual arts, from intricate ceramics to stunning paintings and handcrafted jewelry. Enjoy continuous live entertainment with local musicians, dancers, and unique street performers. The Creative Kids Zone offers hands-on fun for younger attendees, while diverse vendors provide delicious food and drinks. This beloved festival transforms the heart of Durham into a lively hub of creativity and culture.
Our Take
Scare Factor
Family Friendly
Best For
Art enthusiasts, families, community members
Vibe
Artistic, community-focused, celebratory
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
FREE
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Special Events & Promotions
- 50th anniversary celebration
- Limited-edition 50th Anniversary swag available for purchase
- Live screen printing of limited-edition artwork
- Festive parade led by Paperhand Puppet Project
- Sneak-peek celebration with LIVE and Boxyard RTP on Saturday, September 13
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Free admission with $5 suggested donation
Duration
Weekend event
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Downtown Durham
Timed Entry
No
Featured Performers
- Local performers
- Dancers
- Street performers
Organizer
Durham Arts Council
Practical Information
Parking
Many municipal parking lots surround the CenterFest site, as well as neighborhood street parking. Some lots will charge a special event parking fee while others are free. For current information on parking in Downtown Durham, visit the Park Durham website. The Downtown Durham Inc. Parking Map is also a helpful guide. All City of Durham garages are anticipated to be free, but users will need to pull a ticket to enter/exit.
Accessibility
Visit the accessibility page for detailed information on navigating the festival grounds. The festival is generally accessible, with efforts made to accommodate all visitors.
Pet Policy
Pet-friendly (leashed pets)
Food & Drink
Food vendors keep guests fueled for fun.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on Saturday to experience the full range of artists and performances before the largest crowds arrive.
- Check the event program online before you go to plan which artists and performers you want to see most.
- Bring cash for the suggested donation at the gate and for smaller vendor purchases, though many vendors accept cards.
- Consider using public parking garages in downtown Durham, as they are expected to be free during the event.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking throughout the downtown area, which will have several streets closed for the festival.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the suggested donation for CenterFest?
While admission is free, a suggested donation of $5 per person is requested at the gates to support the festival and arts in Durham. Children 12 and under are free.
Are pets allowed at CenterFest?
Leashed pets are welcome, but owners must clean up after them. Pets should be well-behaved in crowded, noisy environments. Unruly animals may be asked to leave. Guide animals are permitted.
What payment methods are accepted?
The festival accepts Mastercard, VISA, American Express, Discover, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and cash.
What kind of art can I expect to see?
You can expect to see a wide variety of juried visual arts, including ceramics, paintings, photography, jewelry, fiber art, woodwork, and glass from artists across the country.
What are the dates and times for CenterFest?
CenterFest takes place on Saturday, September 20th from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday, September 21st from 11am to 5pm.
