May 20 – 22, 2016 (Recurring Daily)
Times: Fri.-Sat., 11am-10pm; Sun., 10am-7pm
Venue: Moore Square
Area: Downtown Raleigh
Admission: Free

Since its inception in 1980, this spring festival has entertained and inspired hundreds of thousands of people, introducing them to underrepresented artists and performances. Every aspect of the festival is curated with an eye toward presenting quality art – and a healthy dose of the unexpected. The festival balances critically acclaimed national artists with some of N.C.’s best performing and visual artists. The result is an eccentric mix of artistic expression, undoubtedly with something that appeals to everyone.
The free festival features dozens of events, such as: The Art Market with more than 180 visual arts and crafts exhibitors from across N.C. and the nation; Kidsplosure, showcasing multiple interactive educational activities and entertainment for children and their parents; Specially-commissioned, large-scale, interactive visual art installations; Aerialists and/or other unique variety performers; The Student Art Exhibition, showcasing two- and three-dimensional artwork of Wake County middle and high school students; Ongoing performances by legends and rising stars from the national and regional rock, blues, country, folk, pop and roots-inspired music scenes, the majority of whom have never appeared in Raleigh, and emerging local and regional performers deserving of wider acclaim.
Events