Is CenterFest still located in Downtown Durham?
Yes, CenterFest will be located in the downtown Durham loop on Main and Chapel Hill Streets in the Five Points and CCB Plaza areas.

How does the festival impact downtown Durham businesses and residents?
Click here to review the CenterFest Downtown Business Alert Packet.

How much does it cost?
The event is free, but we have a suggested donation of $5.00 at the gates. While we strive to keep CenterFest a free event, Durham Arts Council incurs substantial cash expenses of over $100,000 in presenting this annual arts festival for the community, and returning the festival to the downtown location has increased costs substantially. For this reason, we ask that those who can afford to do so make a donation of $5 per person as you enter the festival. Children twelve and under are free. We appreciate your support in making CenterFest happen.

Can I bring my dog, cat, ferret, etc?
Leashed pets are permitted on CenterFest grounds. Owners must pick up after their pets. The Festival has large crowds of people, many children, loud noises and other pets. Patrons are advised only to bring pets that will remain well-behaved in this environment. As an issue of public safety, owners of unruly animals may be asked to leave. Guide animals are welcome at all Festival venues.

Will I be able to maneuver in a wheelchair?
The festival site is completely accessible. If you have other special needs, please contact the Durham Arts Council in advance of the festival to ensure your needs will be met.

Are there kids’ activities at CenterFest?
Bring your kids to Creative Kids Zone in the parking lot next to the Durham Arts Council to enjoy hands-on arts and get your face painted (fee based) by Paint Savvy (Booth: D04). We will also have some fun kiddie rides like Tubs O Fun and Giant Swing. Catch some family-friendly music and cultural programming at the DAC Stage. From 11-1pm each day, visit the Kidznotes Instrument Petting Zoo Family Stage) – learn how to hold, interact with and play a variety of strings, woodwinds, and percussion instruments with teaching artists from Kidznotes, a free K-12 music program and local non-profit.

Can you suggest a hotel or other things to do while in town?
For information on Durham, including accommodations, visit Discover Durham.

What restaurants and shops can I visit downtown?
Click HERE for the map.

Can I still get a booth at CenterFest 2023?
The deadline to apply was May 15, 2023. Selected exhibitors for 2023 are now posted. The CenterFest 2024 Visual Artist will open in January 2024.

Can I still apply to perform at CenterFest 2023?
The deadline to submit a performer application was June 10, 2023. Selected performers will be posted in the coming weeks. The Centerfest 2024 performer application will open in April 2024.

Can I receive community service hours for volunteering and can I volunteer with my friends?
We need you and your friends to volunteer and these hours will count toward any requirements you have; please bring a document for our volunteer coordinator to sign. Click here for volunteer opportunities.

Who is coordinating CenterFest this year?
The Durham Arts Council produces and presents CenterFest each year with the assistance of regional event producers and volunteers.