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FAQs
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past festivals
CenterFest

About CenterFest

Dates & Times: Saturday, September 20th from 10am-6pm
Sunday, September 21st from 11am-5pm

Come and celebrate CenterFest’s 50th anniversary!
Since 1974, Durham Arts Council has brought the Durham community together with an annual arts festival in the fall. As Durham’s signature fine arts festival, CenterFest showcases juried visual artists from across the country and fills multiple stages with stand-out local performers. Art shoppers are dazzled by world-class ceramics, paintings, photography, jewelry, fiber art, woodwork, glass, and more. Creators are based in Durham, the Triangle and across the country. CenterFest also features musicians, dancers and unique street performers to provide continuous entertainment. Kids will have a blast at the Creative Kids Zone, food vendors keep guests fueled for fun, and Durham’s nonprofit and government services sector inspire and inform festival goers. Taking place in the heart of Durham’s historic downtown, a concentration of local businesses and eateries elevate the visitor experience! 
 
Admission is free with a $5 suggested donation at the gate. Donations support the festival and the arts in Durham.
 
CenterFest

Buy special edition merch here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/centerfest-50th-anniversary-2025/

We’re excited to launch our online store featuring limited-edition CenterFest 50th Anniversary swag designed by longtime CenterFest artist Katie Hayes—celebrate five decades of art, community, and creativity with exclusive gear designed just for this milestone year!

“Designing the 50th anniversary artwork has been such a fun project,” said Hayes. “We’re diving into CenterFest history—looking at past posters, shirts, and logos, and pulling out the most iconic visuals to honor. Then I’m weaving in inspiration from Durham itself—from architecture to green spaces—to create something that feels both nostalgic and forward-looking.”

This year’s anniversary festival will also feature other special initiatives that honor CenterFest’s legacy while looking ahead to the future: live screen printing of Katie’s limited-edition artwork by Super G, a festive parade led by Paperhand Puppet Project, and a sneak-peek celebration with LIVE and Boxyard RTP on Saturday, September 13.

About Centerfest

Dates & Times: Saturday, September 20th from 10am-6pm
Sunday, September 21st from 11am-5pm

Come and celebrate CenterFest’s 50th anniversary!
Since 1974, Durham Arts Council has brought the Durham community together with an annual arts festival in the fall. As Durham’s signature fine arts festival, CenterFest showcases juried visual artists from across the country and fills multiple stages with stand-out local performers. Art shoppers are dazzled by world-class ceramics, paintings, photography, jewelry, fiber art, woodwork, glass, and more. Creators are based in Durham, the Triangle and across the country. CenterFest also features musicians, dancers and unique street performers to provide continuous entertainment. Kids will have a blast at the Creative Kids Zone, food vendors keep guests fueled for fun, and Durham’s nonprofit and government services sector inspire and inform festival goers. Taking place in the heart of Durham’s historic downtown, a concentration of local businesses and eateries elevate the visitor experience! 
 
Admission is free with a $5 suggested donation at the gate. Donations support the festival and the arts in Durham.

 
CenterFest

Buy special edition merch here: https://www.bonfire.com/store/centerfest-50th-anniversary-2025/

We’re excited to launch our online store featuring limited-edition CenterFest 50th Anniversary swag designed by longtime CenterFest artist Katie Hayes—celebrate five decades of art, community, and creativity with exclusive gear designed just for this milestone year!

“Designing the 50th anniversary artwork has been such a fun project,” said Hayes. “We’re diving into CenterFest history—looking at past posters, shirts, and logos, and pulling out the most iconic visuals to honor. Then I’m weaving in inspiration from Durham itself—from architecture to green spaces—to create something that feels both nostalgic and forward-looking.”

This year’s anniversary festival will also feature other special initiatives that honor CenterFest’s legacy while looking ahead to the future: live screen printing of Katie’s limited-edition artwork by Super G, a festive parade led by Paperhand Puppet Project, and a sneak-peek celebration with LIVE and Boxyard RTP on Saturday, September 13.

CenterFest 2025 Sponsors

The “Big Bull” Presenting Sponsors

SciMed Logo with Robot_High Res (1)

SciMed, located in downtown Durham, has been building software for the scientific community since 2003. They understand the unique challenges scientists face in data management, analysis, and integration. SciMed can streamline your workflow and empower your research by helping you build a new software tool, supporting your existing software, integrating with your other systems, or consulting on technical questions. Learn more at scimed.io

DAC Logo Square

Durham Arts Council has been presenting and producing CenterFest for 50 years. CenterFest is the longest running juried art festival in the state, and the largest community event in Durham.

“Incredi_Bull” Sponsor

T-Fiber_Logo_TMO_RGB_Horiz_PRI_on-W_2025-03-06[67][47]

T-Mobile Fiber is redefining what customers can expect from home internet. T-Mobile Fiber delivers lightning-fast, ultra-reliable internet with straightforward pricing and no hidden fees. With speeds up to 2 gigabits designed to power streaming, gaming, remote work, and connected homes, T-Mobile Fiber provides the performance families and individuals need today and for the future. As part of T-Mobile’s mission to be the best in wireless and beyond, T-Mobile Fiber expands on the Un-carrier’s promise of simplicity, transparency, and customer-first service. From hassle-free installation to responsive support, T-Mobile Fiber ensures customers enjoy a seamless and connected experience

Learn more at fiber.t-mobile.com.

“Wonder-Bull” Sponsor

Rivers_Logo

At Rivers Agency we believe business-changing ideas are born when creativity, empathy and culture converge. That’s why supporting CenterFest Arts Festival is always a natural fit for us. We have championed the arts and artists for 30 years, and our diverse client roster will always include institutions like the Durham Arts Council that drive positive cultural transformation. Find out more at Riversagency.com

WRAL

WRAL is proud to support the arts and celebrate creativity through its involvement with CenterFest Arts Festival. As the longest-running outdoor arts festival in North Carolina, CenterFest brings together artists, performers, and the community for a vibrant weekend of culture and connection. From visual arts to live performances, WRAL recognizes the power of the arts to inspire, unite, and enhance the quality of life in our community. WRAL is honored to be a part of this tradition.

dh_horz_blue.pngduke health

Duke Health encompasses the world-class academic health care and research of the Duke University Health System, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University School of Nursing, Duke-NUS Medical School, Duke Global Health Institute, and the Duke-Margolis Institute for Health Policy. Through the integration of its education, research, and clinical care missions, Duke Health is steadfast in its dedication to improving the lives of all who come to us for hope, health, and healing. We do so by elevating standards of care; conducting breakthrough research and discovery; teaching and training the next generation of providers; and strengthening global and community health.

“Love-A-Bull” Sponsor

Spark_Logo
Durham_Coke
WUNC
WNCU_logo

“Admira-Bull” Sponsor

Marriott_Logo
https://www.durhamrotaryclub.org/

https://www.durhamrotaryclub.org/

Teromed_resized
DPAC_Logo
Durham_mag_Logo

“Enjoy-A-Bull” Sponsor

image005
Window Nation
https://downtowndurham.com/

https://downtowndurham.com/

Central Bark_Logo
TCS_logo_BADGE_Final BW
2025-Logo-Square-Cropped
WCPE Logo_no 897addressline (2)
292310633_441514237983780_2349938169666014519_n (1)
Truist-Logo

“Promote-A-Bull” Sponsor

Foundation-Logo-RGB-Wide-Color

Andy Esser, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, AAMS®

nsb-logo (1)
Triangle Tribune Logo

Centerfest Partners & Friends

Text content

Kay Gresham

STAR logo

Special Thanks To

City of Durham_Program Logos and Logo Lockups Seperate_CMYK-02

CenterFest 2025 Sponsors

The “Big Bull” Presenting Sponsor

DAC Logo Square

Durham Arts Council has been presenting and producing CenterFest for 50 years. CenterFest is the longest running juried art festival in the state, and the largest community event in Durham.

SciMed Logo with Robot_High Res (1)

SciMed, located in downtown Durham, has been building software for the scientific community since 2003. They understand the unique challenges scientists face in data management, analysis, and integration. SciMed can streamline your workflow and empower your research by helping you build a new software tool, supporting your existing software, integrating with your other systems, or consulting on technical questions. Learn more at scimed.io

“Incredi-Bull” Sponsor

T-Fiber_Logo_TMO_RGB_Horiz_PRI_on-W_2025-03-06[67][47]

T-Mobile Fiber is redefining what customers can expect from home internet. T-Mobile Fiber delivers lightning-fast, ultra-reliable internet with straightforward pricing and no hidden fees. With speeds up to 2 gigabits designed to power streaming, gaming, remote work, and connected homes, T-Mobile Fiber provides the performance families and individuals need today and for the future. As part of T-Mobile’s mission to be the best in wireless and beyond, T-Mobile Fiber expands on the Un-carrier’s promise of simplicity, transparency, and customer-first service. From hassle-free installation to responsive support, T-Mobile Fiber ensures customers enjoy a seamless and connected experience

Learn more at fiber.t-mobile.com.

“Wonder-Bull” Sponsor

Rivers_Logo

At Rivers Agency we believe business-changing ideas are born when creativity, empathy and culture converge. That’s why supporting CenterFest Arts Festival is always a natural fit for us. We have championed the arts and artists for 30 years, and our diverse client roster will always include institutions like the Durham Arts Council that drive positive cultural transformation. Find out more at Riversagency.com

WRAL

WRAL is proud to support the arts and celebrate creativity through its involvement with CenterFest Arts Festival. As the longest-running outdoor arts festival in North Carolina, CenterFest brings together artists, performers, and the community for a vibrant weekend of culture and connection. From visual arts to live performances, WRAL recognizes the power of the arts to inspire, unite, and enhance the quality of life in our community. WRAL is honored to be a part of this tradition.

dh_horz_blue.pngduke health

Duke Health encompasses the world-class academic health care and research of the Duke University Health System, Duke University School of Medicine, Duke University School of Nursing, Duke-NUS Medical School, Duke Global Health Institute, and the Duke-Margolis Institute for Health Policy. Through the integration of its education, research, and clinical care missions, Duke Health is steadfast in its dedication to improving the lives of all who come to us for hope, health, and healing. We do so by elevating standards of care; conducting breakthrough research and discovery; teaching and training the next generation of providers; and strengthening global and community health.

“Love-A-Bull” Sponsor

Spark_Logo
Durham_Coke
WUNC
WNCU_logo

“Admira-Bull” Sponsor

Marriott_Logo
Rotary_Logo
Teromed_resized
DPAC_Logo
Durham_mag_Logo

“Enjoy-A-Bull” Sponsor

image005
Window Nation
Screenshot 2025-09-02 132157
Central Bark_Logo
2025-Logo-Square-Cropped
TCS_logo_BADGE_Final BW
292310633_441514237983780_2349938169666014519_n (1)
WCPE Logo_no 897addressline (2)
Truist-Logo

“Promote-A-Bull” Sponsor

Triangle Tribune Logo
nsb-logo (1)
Foundation-Logo-RGB-Wide-Color

Andy Esser, CFP®, ChFC®, CLU®, AAMS®

Centerfest Partners & Friends

STAR logo

Kay Gresham

Special Thanks To

City of Durham_Program Logos and Logo Lockups Seperate_CMYK-02

CenterFest 2025 Merit Winners

Best in Show- Luis Gutierrez

Best in Show- Luis Gutierrez

First Place- Andy Costine

First Place- Andy Costine

Second Place- Michelle McDowell Smith

Second Place- Michelle McDowell Smith

Third Place- Bren West

Third Place- Bren West

Best Durham Artist- Kelly Walsh

Best Durham Artist- Kelly Walsh

Citizen's Choice- Candy Carver

Citizen's Choice- Candy Carver

CenterFest 2025 Artists

Centerfest 2025 Performers

_CenterFest _2025_Program

Centerfest 2025 Non-Profit, Gov’t & Novelty Vendors

Non-Profit Groups

Booth: D3
ADF is a recognized leader in modern dance presenting dance performances, and offering educational opportunities and community programs.
Booth: D1
BCFT aims to promote fair trade practices and goods through education and providing a market for global artisans.
Booth: D8
Carolina Theatre inspires, educates, and entertains through diverse films, live performances, and community programs. Booth offers theater info and giveaways.
Booth: D4
Present quality performances; works rarely performed. Create performance and educational opportunities for emerging musicians. Instrument identification game at booth.
Booth: D7
The Durham Lions Club performs service centered around activities for the visually handicapped, the blind, and youth.
Location: Kids Zone
A member-supported, all-volunteer nonprofit that raises funds through donated book sales with all proceeds going to the Durham County Library.
Location: Kids Zone
Kidznotes provides low-cost music education to students. Our booth with share information for registration and instruments to try.
Booth: D2
OdysseyStage champions emerging NC playwrights. Visit our booth for festival previews, photo ops, and interactive moments with local theatre artists.
Booth: D6
VT is dedicated to unlocking the imagination through theatre. The booth will have interactive family theatre activities.

Gov’t Groups

Booth: E12
The City of Durham Stormwater booth offers hands-on engagement and information about preventing water pollution.
Booth: E11
The Department of Water Management maintains the City’s pipes, plants, and facilities and provides essential water related services.
Booth: D5
NC Quick Pass will allow attendees to ask questions about tolls or make or manage a NC Quick Pass account.

Novelty Vendors

Gus McGee Book Co
Location: Kids Zone
Gus McGee Book Co is a bookstore on wheels that operates from a 24 foot school bus.
Paint Savvy
Location: Kids Zone
Paint Savvy is an entertainment brand located in Durham NC serving residents for 19 years and counting! Feat. face-painting and angel hair.
CenterFest

Past Festivals

2024
2023
2022
2020

Past Festivals

2024
2023
2022
2020

Questions about CenterFest?

Contact Us
Contact Us