About CenterFest
Saturday, September 19th from 10am-6pm
Sunday, September 20th from 11am-5pm
Since 1974, Durham Arts Council has brought the community together each fall for CenterFest, Durham’s signature fine arts festival. The festival features juried visual artists from Durham, the Triangle, and across the country, showcasing ceramics, paintings, photography, jewelry, fiber art, woodwork, glass, and more. Multiple stages come alive with local musicians, dancers, and street performers, while the KidZone, food vendors, and community organizations offer something for all ages. Set in the heart of historic downtown Durham, CenterFest also connects visitors with the city’s vibrant local businesses and restaurants.
Admission is free with a $5 suggested donation at the gate. Donations support the festival and the arts in Durham.
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Shop Fine Art
Browse one-of-a-kind work from more than 120 juried artists specialized in ceramics, painting, photography, jewelry, fiber art, glass, wood, sculpture, and more!Watch Live Performances
Enjoy nonstop entertainment from local musicians, dancers, theater groups, and cultural performers on multiple stages throughout the weekend.Eat & Drink Local
Discover delicious bites, sweet treats, and refreshing drinks from Durham restaurants and local food vendors.Create in the KidZone
Get creative with free make-and-take art projects designed for artists of all ages. Drop in, make something fun, and take home your own handmade masterpiece.Live Screenprinting and Special Merch!
Watch live screenprinting by Super G Print Lab, shop for limited edition CenterFest prints and shop the Vintage CenterFest Store!Volunteer
Be part of the team that brings CenterFest to life! Help welcome guests, support artists, and create an unforgettable experience while making a lasting impact on Durham’s arts community. Click here to sign up!
CenterFest Commemorates “We The People”
Inspired by CenterFest sponsor Duke Arts’ unifying theme, “We the People,” CenterFest weekend will celebrate the many voices, stories, and experiences that shape our community through art, history, and civic engagement. Throughout the weekend, visitors are invited to experience the Durham County Library’s rare display of the Declaration of Independence, alongside exhibitions, performances, and public art that encourage reflection on our shared past and future as we commemorate America’s 250th anniversary.
As part of this initiative, the DAC is honored to present Sidney Brodie’s Durham Homicide and Victims of Violent Death Memorial Quilt in the pavilion throughout CenterFest weekend. Created in response to community violence, the quilt serves as both a memorial and a call to action, honoring lives lost while creating space for reflection, dialogue, and healing. In addition, a special CenterFest juried art category will highlight CenterFest Artists’ works exploring themes of history, identity, belonging, democratic expression, and the shared stories that connect us.
Become A CenterFest Sponsor
CenterFest offers an unparalleled opportunity to align your brand with creativity, culture, and connection
- High Visibility: Engage directly with 25,000+ attendees in a dynamic, high-traffic setting
- Brand Alignment: Position your organization as a champion of the arts and community
- Targeted Reach: Connect with families, young professionals, creatives, and engaged residents
- Multi-Channel Exposure: Gain recognition through digital campaigns, social media, press, and on-site branding
- Meaningful Impact: Support local artists, arts education, and free, accessible cultural experience
Check out the sponsor deck for more information on ways to partner.
As a free, community-centered event, CenterFest relies on the support of sponsors to remain accessible while continuing to grow its impact across Durham’s creative economy. We would love to partner with you for 2026, reach out to our Director of Development and Communications, Laura Montgomery lmontgomery@durhamarts.org with questions.
