Information for Festivalgoers

Festival Hours and Location

Saturday, September 5th
11:00am - 10:00pm (art and vendor booths close at dusk)
Family Village Hours  11:00am-7:00pm

Sunday, September 6th
1:00pm - 10:00pm (art and vendor booths close at dusk)
Family Village and Creativation Station Hours  1:00pm-7:00pm

The African American Culture Festival takes place in the heart of Downtown Raleigh, on Fayetteville Street.
All events are free and open to the public.

2020 Festival Information

The AACF is actively monitoring the progression of the coronavirus pandemic. In light of this global outbreak, we must do our part to protect not only our beloved community of Raleigh, but the attendees and participants of our festival. Therefore, should it come to our attention that our annual cultural festival should be canceled or postponed due to an extended stay at home order by either our state or national leaders, we will notify vendors and participants of this decision as early as possible. Please note that the decision to postpone or cancel our festival may be required by the City of Raleigh or any extended social distancing guidelines issued by the Center for Disease Control. Should the festival be canceled as a result of the coronavirus, all paid deposits and balances will be deemed non-refundable, but transferable to the next festival that the AACF is able to host.

Directions from I-40

Take exit 298B, South Saunders Street, going North toward downtown Raleigh. South Saunders Street becomes McDowell Street as you enter the downtown area. The festival is two blocks east of the corner of McDowell and Davie Streets, along Fayetteville Street.

 

Parking

Parking decks and surface lots surround the downtown area. City-owned lots and decks will be open all weekend, although a small daily fee may be charged. Metered parking on the streets surrounding Fayetteville Street is free on the weekend. State government visitor lots are also typically available for free parking during weekends. For more information about parking in and around downtown Raleigh, visit the Downtown Raleigh Alliance's website. The free R-Line Downtown Circulator bus can also help you get around downtown.

 

Tips for Attending the Festival:

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  1. Please feel free to bring your own lawn chairs to the festival, especially if you'd like a seat near the stages. Of course, we welcome everyone to get up and dance!

  2. Please watch the weather forecast and plan accordingly. There is no rain venue, so please bring umbrellas or raincoats if necessary.

  3. Please note: private coolers and alcoholic beverages not purchased from the festival concessions are not permitted.

  4. Well behaved dogs are welcome, but please be respectful of other attendees. At times, the festival site can be very busy and may not be suitable for some animals. And, be aware that extremely hot pavement is harmful to animals.

  5. It can be very hot Labor Day weekend and this is an outdoor festival - so please stay hydrated! There will be water sold at the festival, but you may also bring your own water bottle.