Core Annual Events
Some of Durham's best-loved, unique annual festivals and events. These are unique festivals that rarely exist in other destinations, with good recognition throughout the state and a strong in-state and/or day-trip visitor appeal.
February
Black Diaspora Film Festival
804 Old Fayetteville St, Hayti Heritage Center
The festival's mission is to celebrate African-American cinema and the African cultural Diaspora, by highlighting established and emerging filmmakers and films showcasing the contributions and uniqueness of the Black artistic tradition in film. Film selections embody the richness of Black culture while recognizing universal themes and the similarities that exist among all cultures. Check website for schedule.
Map | Driving Directions
Nevermore Horror and Gothic Film Festival
Carolina Theatre, 309 W. Morgan St.
Created in 1999, the Nevermore Horror and Gothic Film Festival is dedicated to screening audience-requested horror flicks as well as brand-new films from around the world.
Map | Driving Directions
May
Bimbe Cultural Arts Festival
Durham Central Park, Downtown
African-American music and arts festival. One of the oldest cultural festivals in the country and one of the region's most comprehensive celebrations of music, art and dance, from African and Caribbean to reggae and rap.
Driving Directions
June
Duke Homestead Herb, Garden and Craft Festival
2828 Homestead Rd., Homestead State Historic Site
Enjoy this historical outdoor herb festival, which features traditional herbal-use displays and a wide variety of herb and craft vendors. Musical entertainment, guided tours of the Homestead, and food are available.
Map | Driving Directions
Museum of Life and Science Butterfly Bash
433 Murray Ave.
Celebrating the spectacular Magic Wings Tropical Conservatory with a full day of family activities, including crafts, music, art and a Butterfly Costume Parade for children.
Map | Driving Directions
September
Duke Homestead Tobacco Harvest Festival
2828 Homestead Rd., Homestead State Historic Site
Cultural festival centered on tobacco harvesting, curing and related activities in the fields and at the barn.
Map | Driving Directions
November
Durham Art Guild's Annual Juried Art Show
Durham Arts Council Bldg., 120 Morris St.
Durham's more than 400 visual artists join with regional artists to compete and display in a variety of media.
Map | Driving Directions
December
Christmas by Candlelight at Duke Homestead
2828 Homestead Rd., Homestead State Historic Site
A celebration of an 1870 Christmas with evening candlelight tours of the Homestead featuring period decorations, caroling, hot apple cider, and other goodies.
Map | Driving Directions
