Blumenthal Arts has unveiled the lineup for the 2024 Charlotte International Arts Festival (CIAF), running from September 13 to 29 in Charlotte.
This annual event celebrates global cultures through over 200 live performances, art installations, and cultural expressions, aiming to cater to diverse tastes and backgrounds.
The third year of CIAAF will feature diverse events such as fitness classes, immersive art experiences, and cultural performances.
The festival promises extensive programming with 130 free events, 40 art installations, and performances from over 45 countries.
Key highlights include:
- Returning attractions: Giant inflatable art pieces like U.K.-based artist Luke Jerram’s “Gaia,” and interactive installations like Jerram’s “Of Earth and Sky.”
- New additions: New cultural events like the Lowcountry Cultural Festival and Southern Guitar Festival.
- Cultural partners: The Festival of India and the Latin American Festival, along with new partners like the University City Wine Festival and Queen City Zine Fest.
- Venues: Activities will span across multiple locations including Blume Studios in the Iron District, Ballantyne’s Backyard, and Uptown Charlotte.
- Birdmen: Through September 13 to 29, find roaming bird puppets in surprise locations.
- Lotty by Moradavaga: Interact with a large-scale squid sculpture from Italy and Portugal in Uptown From September 13 to 29.
- Festival of India: Expanded programming will be introduced to Ballantyne for a second day of celebrations, culminating with a free lawn performance by the Charlotte Symphony Orchestra.
- Mind Wash: A 26-foot rotating, brain-shaped animated structure featuring classical music by Christopher Schardt of LED Labs in Ballantyne’s Backyard.
- Festival Biergarten: Enjoy food and drinks, including local craft beer, open Tuesdays through Thursdays from 4 p.m. to 9 pm, Fridays from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturdays from noon to 10 pm, and Sundays from noon to 9 p.m.
