The Charlotte International Arts Festival Returns
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Charlotte International Arts Festival (CIAF), a Blumenthal Arts Original, has returned for 2025. In its fourth year, the annual celebration of global arts will span the entire month of September, at festival locations across the city.
With more than 200 events, many of which are free, and ticketed events starting at $5, the monthlong fete offers an abundance of things to do, see, taste, and experience for every background, age, interest, and budget. For the full festival lineup, keep an eye on charlotteartsfest.com and @cltartsfest for the most up-to-date information.
“We began the Charlotte International Arts Festival four years ago to celebrate the incredible richness of international cultures and artists that call Charlotte home. We also bring extraordinary art and creative experiences from around the world. The result is a joyous reflection of Charlotte’s global spirit and creative energy. With art and activities in neighborhoods throughout our city, CIAF brings people together to create new bonds and appreciation for the cultures and traditions found here,” said Tom Gabbard, President and CEO of Blumenthal Arts.
As in previous years, international and local artists will exhibit work side by side for a cultural buffet of performances, art installations, global cuisines, and more. CIAF will again partner with numerous well-established festivals rooted in Charlotte’s international communities; the result will be a rich “festival of festivals” that celebrates the city’s vibrant multicultural scene.
Returning CIAF cultural partners:
o Atelier Sisu
o Festival of India
o Latin American Festival
o Le Dîner en Blanc
o Charlotte Brunch Festival
o CLTure Day + Night Market
o Boom Fringe Festival
o Lowcountry Festival
o Festival in the Park
o UNCC International Festival
o Independent Picture House
o El Grito Festival
o Nouveau Sud
o SouthPark After 5
New cultural partners and international artists:
o Radical Grove
o Africa Live
o Step Afrika
o Bloom Movement Artistry
o Gravitate
o Anne Spring Close Greenway
o Su Casa
o FOMO
The third Charlotte International Arts Festival concluded on September 29, 2024. More than 500,000 experienced 200+ events representing 63 countries in a 17-day spree of creativity from around the world and around the corner. The festival saw 130 free events, 275 small business vendors, five large-scale art installations, and two custom soundscapes commissioned by local composers.
For more events, tickets, performance times, and more information, visit charlotteartsfest.com.
