University of Memphis' Central to the Arts Festival Celebrates Creativity and Community; Central Avenue Through Campus Closed for the Day

March 23, 2023 —The University of Memphis announced the inaugural Central to the Arts Festival, taking place Saturday, April 1, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. This event celebrates the diversity and vibrancy of the arts scene at both the UofM and in the Memphis area. The festival will take place on Central Avenue, which runs through the UofM campus, and will feature a wide variety of artistic performances and exhibitions.

Attendees will enjoy live performances from musicians, dancers and actors, as well as film showings, fashion shows and interactive arts booths offering a hands-on experience. "This festival is a wonderful opportunity for our community to come together and celebrate the arts," said Dr. Ryan Fisher, interim dean of the College of Communication and Fine Arts. "We are proud to showcase the incredible talent of our students and faculty, as well as the amazing creativity of the Memphis community."

In addition to the fantastic performances and exhibitions, the festival will also feature food trucks set up along Central Avenue offering delicious treats to enjoy. The City of Memphis has agreed to allow the University to close Central Avenue from Fogelman Drive to Zach H. Curlin Street during the festival. Motorists are encouraged to take Poplar Avenue instead, or they will be re-routed to Southern Avenue from Central Avenue.

There will be two parking options free of charge. The Fogelman Drive garage will be open or festival-goers can use the Central Avenue general parking lot accessible from Central and Zach Curlin or on Conley Street off Poplar Avenue. "We are excited to offer a little something for everyone at this year's festival," said Fisher. "Whether you're a lover of music, dance, film, fashion or fine arts, there will be something to inspire and delight you."

Admission to the festival is free. For more information on the Central to the Arts Festival, please visit memphis.edu/centraltotheartsfestival.