The Festivals DC grant program offers funds to eligible nonprofit organizations for arts festivals or festivals with significant arts components that: encourage growth and promote awareness of quality arts activities throughout the District of Columbia, support local artists, stimulate economic benefits to the local community, promote a sense of community identity, and make arts experiences accessible to District residents and visitors. For festivals that are not primarily arts focused, funds will only support arts related activities. Projects must provide exposure to the arts and arts experiences to the broader community or to persons traditionally underserved or separated from the cultural mainstream due to geographic location, economic constraints, or disability.

What is an arts festival? An arts festival is a public celebration that heightens awareness and appreciation of a central theme that is focused on recognized artistic disciplines, such as: visual arts and crafts, dance, literature, poetry, music, media (film/video/radio), and/or theater.

The application deadline for FY 2009 Festivals DC applications is Wednesday, June 4, 2008 at 7 pm. 

Workshops
The Commission hosts a series of workshops to assist organizations in preparing applications and strongly encourages that all applicants attend a workshop prior to submitting a proposal. No prior reservations are required to attend workshops. 

Festivals DC workshops will be held:

• Thursday, May 15, 2008
  DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities
  Noon-1:30 pm
• Thursday, May 22, 2008
  DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities
  6 pm-7:30 pm

All Festivals DC workshops will take place at the Commission's office at 410 8th Street NW, 5th Floor, Washington, DC 20004. For directions, please refer to our How to Reach Us page.

Download the FY 2009 Festivals DC Guidelines.*

View the application, budget and W-9 forms.

For more information, please email Sherry Schwechten or call (202) 724-5613.