Kings Drive Art Walk 2026

Kings Drive Art Walk 2026

Event Information
The 16th annual *Kings Drive Art Walk*, presented by *Festival in the Park*, is a spring fine arts event that has been a vibrant part of Charlotte’s cultural scene since 1964. This event, scheduled for May 2-3, 2026, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturday and 11:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sunday, aims to bring together the community through arts, crafts, music, and family entertainment.
Event Venue and Atmosphere
The Kings Drive Art Walk will be hosted along the scenic *Little Sugar Creek Greenway*, offering a picturesque setting between East Morehead Street and Pearle Street Bridge. The greenway features stunning arbors, spring gardens, a magnificent fountain, and inviting terraces, creating a unique backdrop for the festival. Adjacent to the greenway are popular local eateries and boutiques, enhancing the overall experience for attendees.
Participation and Eligibility

  • Exhibit spaces are awarded based on the quality and variety of the exhibitor pool.
  • Qualified previous exhibitors of the Kings Drive Art Walk are highly valued.
  • Artists committed to demonstrating their medium full-time receive preferred locations.
  • All displayed work must be original and solely attributable to the exhibiting artist, with no commission taken on sales by the event.

Amenities and Support
*Kings Drive Art Walk Provides*:

  • Tent location assignment by the event organizers.
  • One 110 electrical outlet per tent with the option for additional electricity at a fee.
  • Easily accessible booth locations for setup and teardown.
  • Exhibitor parking and 24-hour security for peace of mind.

Regulations and Guidelines

  • Artists must maintain a standard of courtesy and respect towards all participants and attendees.
  • Displays should be in good taste and comply with event rules.
  • Exhibitors are responsible for North Carolina and Mecklenburg sales tax collection.
  • The event does not handle any sales tax collection or payment.

Logistics and Operations

  • Registration timings and setup guidelines are strictly enforced for smooth event operations.
  • Proper tent securing and safety measures are mandatory for all exhibitors.
  • Removal of vehicles from the exhibit area and adherence to parking regulations are crucial for safety and logistics.

Jury Process and Selection

  • The event receives around 235 applications annually, with approximately 120 artists selected through the jury process.
  • Returning artists are chosen by a panel of jurors, ensuring a fair selection process.
  • The jury process is closed to public observation, maintaining impartiality and integrity.

By integrating seamlessly with the vibrant arts community of Charlotte, the Kings Drive Art Walk promises to be a captivating celebration of creativity and culture, offering artists and attendees an enriching experience in a picturesque setting.