Join us for the 29th Annual Orange Street ArtsFest in Downtown Wilmington this Memorial Day weekend, featuring art, food, and family-friendly fun.

Mark your calendars for one of Wilmington’s most beloved arts festivals! The 29th Annual Orange Street ArtsFest (OSAF) is back this Memorial Day weekend, offering fun for the whole family. Join us on Saturday, May 24th, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, and Sunday, May 25th, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, in the heart of Downtown Wilmington. The festival takes place on Orange Street (between Front and Second Streets), extends along Second Street (from Orange to Dock Street), and includes the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center.

A Celebration of Art and Creativity
OSAF is Wilmington’s largest arts festival, featuring 79 talented artists showcasing a variety of works, including oil and watercolor paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, metal arts, and unique cloth and paper creations. This year’s festival is proudly sponsored by WDI and Bring It Downtown, WWAY, WHQR, Cumulus Media, WAAV, WGNI, WMNX, WWQQ, and WKXS.

The festival’s juried competition will be led by award-winning artist Benjamin Billingsley, a seasoned art educator and international exhibitor. Benjamin, who has taught at Cape Fear Community College since 2001, will present awards for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place, along with four Judges’ Awards and cash prizes totaling $550.

Family Fun, Food, and Unique Attractions
This family-friendly festival offers more than just art! Savor delicious culinary creations from Hot Diggity Dog, Chef Driven, Carolina Whip, and North Carolina Sweet Tea.
Inside the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center, visitors can explore the ceramic creations of Laney High School’s senior clay club students, themed “Summer in Sicily”. All items will be available for purchase, showcasing the talents of these young artists under the guidance of ceramics teacher Kristen Morgan.

Don’t miss the chance to explore the World War II exhibits located in the lobby museum of the Community Arts Center. These exhibits include memorials to Wilmington’s two Medal of Honor recipients, offering a unique historical experience alongside the festival’s artistic displays.

A Rich History of Promoting the Arts
The Orange Street ArtsFest was established in 1995 by Thalian Association Community Theatre to promote the arts in Wilmington and support the Hannah Block Historic USO/Community Arts Center. This iconic 84-year-old building, a hub for visual and performing arts, underwent a complete renovation in 2008 and continues to be a cornerstone of Wilmington’s cultural community.

Learn more about the building’s history at wilmingtoncommunityarts.org.

Join the Celebration!
Whether you’re an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a fun outing with family and friends, the 29th Annual Orange Street ArtsFest has something for everyone.

Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate art, culture, and community in beautiful Downtown Wilmington.