Exciting Change Ahead for BOOM Charlotte Festival!
Charlotte, get ready for an exhilarating transformation! The cherished BOOM Charlotte festival is set to take a big leap in 2024 by relocating to a brand new venue, University City. Mark your calendars for April 25-27, when this vibrant celebration of arts and culture will light up the charming landscapes of north Charlotte. This announcement brings with it a wave of excitement, and for good reason!
What’s BOOM All About?
For those who might not be familiar, BOOM Charlotte is one of the largest arts festivals in the city, which typically showcases an impressive lineup of up to 100 local artists. Over three action-packed days, attendees can expect to experience a melting pot of creative expressions ranging from dance and music to theater, poetry, visual art, and even film! This is not just about viewing art—it’s about diving deep into a kaleidoscope of artistic immersion.
A Scenic New Venue
Moving to University City offers an exciting twist to the festival. Founder and executive director Manoj Kesavan shared that this new location promises to be one of the most picturesque spots around the lake. With its scenic beauty and unique offerings, attendees can look forward to an entirely different vibe this coming April. “It will have a different look and experience,” Kesavan noted, making it clear that this change is intended to elevate the festival to new heights.
The Backstory of BOOM
Originally taking place in Plaza Midwood, BOOM Charlotte reached its peak attendance of about 20,000 in 2019, before the disruptions caused by the pandemic. In the last two editions, held at Camp North End, the festival attracted approximately 10,000 attendees. With the relocation to University City, Kesavan is hopeful that the festival will once again draw in significant crowds as they strive to create a space that fosters artistic collaboration across the city.
A Fusion of Community and Culture
The partnership between BOOM Charlotte and University City Partners is a powerful move aimed at promoting local arts and culture. Keith Stanely, the CEO and president of University City Partners, supports this mission wholeheartedly, emphasizing the importance of boosting economic growth through the arts in this area of Charlotte. Notably, University City has seen a remarkable 42% increase in visitors since 2021, and this festival is sure to bring even more excitement to the community.
Festival Highlights
This year, BOOM Charlotte will offer two main experiences:
- BOOM Fringe: An indoor venue showcasing cutting-edge experimental art (tickets required).
- BOOM Intersection: A free outdoor space filled with family-friendly performances perfect for all ages!
This festival is not just for art lovers but is designed to be a place where everyone can come together, enjoy vibrant performances, and connect with local culture.
Inclusivity at its Core
Kesavan expressed his commitment to inclusivity, highlighting that BOOM Charlotte is “definitely a majority minority festival.” This year, the focus will also expand to include Native American artists, who have often been underrepresented within the localized arts scene. This effort speaks volumes about the festival’s commitment to showcasing a rich tapestry of cultures and artistic expressions.
Mark Your Calendars!
As preparations ramp up, artists interested in showcasing their talents can submit applications on the festival’s website until January 15. Keep an eye out for updates on exciting vendors, performers, and artistic talent that will be announced as the festival draws closer.
Charlotte, you’re in for a treat this April! With a fresh location, a diverse array of talents on display, and the promise of an unforgettable experience, BOOM Charlotte 2024 is set to ignite the city and celebrate the very essence of our vibrant community!
