Frequently Asked Questions
If you have additional questions about the Pearl Street Arts Fest that are not addressed below, please contact us.
Is it free?
Yes, Pearl Street Arts Fest is free and open to the public.
Where do I park?
Downtown Boulder is home to 6 parking structures and 5 parking lots, along with on-street metered spaces -- over 4,000 parking spaces! Parking in City of Boulder Garages is FREE on Saturday and Sundays, and metered parking is FREE on Sunday. Please see the Getting Here page for additional information and maps.
What are the Fest hours?
Pearl Street Arts Fest begins with a Kick-Off event from 3:00 - 8:00 pm on Friday, July 14. Most of the exhibiting artists will be present for the kick-off event. The show continues from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm on Saturday, July 15 and from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm on Sunday, July 16.
Where do I get food and beverages?
If you'd like to enjoy a picnic outside, check out the Picnic Area on the east side of the 1300 block near the Pop Jet Fountain. There are a variety of take away food options available there and nearby, including everything from momos and pizza to grilled cheese and falafel. Or, if you'd rather take a break from the heat, stop by one of over 100 great downtown restaurants. Check out our Dining Listings or stop by the Visitor Information Center at the corner of 13th and Pearl streets for a recommendation.
Is there alcohol at the Fest?
There is no alcohol available at the festival itself, but check out our Dining Listings of nearby bars and restaurants - many of whom have rooftop patios!
Where are the bathrooms?
The indoor Public Restrooms at 13th & Pearl are out of service, but there are portable toilets just north of the indoor one at 13th & Pearl as well as along 14th Street near the Courthouse Lawn.
What if it rains?
Pearl Street Arts Fest will be held rain or shine. We only close down the fest when the weather presents a safety hazard to patrons, artists and staff.
What should I wear and should I bring anything with me?
Mid-July tends to be hot in Boulder, so we recommend wearing comfortable, light-weight clothing for your visit to Pearl Street Arts Fest. Definitely bring a hat, plenty of sunscreen and a re-usable water bottle!
Are there kids' activities?
There are lots of things happening at Pearl Street Arts Fest, and downtown, to entertain the kids - check out our Activities page.
Do you have a lost and found?
Definitely - stop by the Visitor Information Center at the corner of 13th and Pearl streets for assistance with lost items.
Are pets allowed at Pearl Street Arts Fest?
The City of Boulder prohibits pets on the Pearl Street Mall - so please leave your furry friends at home!
How do I find a specific artist?
Check out the Artists page for an alphabetical listing of all of Pearl Street Arts Fest's participating artists and a list of their booth numbers. Where booth numbers are located is shown on the event map available in the program at the Visitor Information Center at the corner of 13th and Pearl streets. Also, feel free to ask event staff for assistance.
What type of art will be at the Fest?
Artists at this year's Pearl Street Arts Fest work in a variety of mediums, that include: Ceramics, Drawing/Pastels, Fiber/Textiles, Glass, Jewelry, Metal, Mixed Media, Painting, Photography, Printmaking, Sculpture, Upcycled and Woodworking.
What is the price range of the art?
Original pieces range anywhere from $35 (some jewelry) to over $10,000 (large paintings and sculptures) depending on artist, medium, etc. Most artists in the show have a variety of priced items - and many also sell limited edition prints of their work. You can always take home a piece of the festival with a limited edition, signed Commemorative Poster!
Where can I buy the Pearl Street Arts Fest Poster?
You can pick-up a Pearl Street Arts Fest Commemorative Poster - a high-quality, photo print (signed and numbered by the artists!) at Art Source International (1237 Pearl Street) or at the artist's booth (#1212). They come in two sizes: 8x10 for $22 (plus tax).
I'm an artist - how do I apply to be a part of Pearl Street Arts Fest in the future?
Applications for the 2024 Pearl Street Arts Fest will be available by the end of October 2023 at Zapplication.org. Visit Downtown Boulder's site for up-to-date information.
How do you choose the artists?
Artists are selected each year by an independent jury of artists and arts professionals. Over 300 artists apply to Pearl Street Arts Fest each year for around 100 spots.
What else is there to do at the Fest?
Pearl Street Arts Fest takes place on the historic Pearl Street Mall, in the middle of vibrant Downtown Boulder! Filled with amazing shopping, dining and entertainment options – there is truly something for everyone to enjoy. Eighty-five percent locally owned and operated with over 1000 businesses. When you're done exploring all that Pearl Street Arts Fest has to offer - get some ideas from our Activities page - including maps of our Alley Gallery or a self-guided Mural Tour - or stop by the Visitor Information Center on the corner of 13th and Pearl streets and ask event staff for some ideas!
Is photography of the artwork allowed?
No photography of the artwork is allowed without the permission of the artist.
How can I become a Volunteer?
Pearl Street Arts Fest relies on the help and support of over 60 volunteers to make this popular community art show a success. Please join us by visiting our Volunteer Page for more detail and information on how to sign up.
Still have questions about Pearl Street Arts Fest? Contact Us.