Event History
Formally the Ethnic Arts Festival, which originated in 1983, the World Arts & Music Festival was re-imagined for the 21st century in 2017. Held on Evanston's stunning, historic lakefront at Dawes Park, Sheridan Rd at Church St, this premier event of it's kind celebrates cultural diversity. In 2017, the event featured over 80 art and crafts vendors from many different regions of the world. Visitors are invited to travel the world and experience art, food and entertainment drawn from around the globe. Each continental "hub" featured family activity tents for the 20,000+ guests that visit the lakefront throughout the 2-day event. Visitors are able to learn more about fair trade business in our Certified Fair Trade area, sample a variety of culinary delights from food vendors and local food producers, while enjoying music and dance performances throughout the day.
What Makes this event different?
Our unique community embraces and celebrates diversity. The World Arts & Music Festival is an opportunity for residents and non-residents of Evanston to come together and celebrate cultural diversity, while taking in the beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the Evanston's lakefront.
The City of Evanston is currently accepting artist vendor applications for the 2018 World Arts & Music Festival. Applications may be submitted through ZAPP through April 20, 2018. The festival will take place July 21-22 at Dawes Park in Evanston, Illinois. Questions should be directed to Michelle Tompkins at 847-448-8681 or mtompkins@cityofevanston.org.
