Some Charlotte traditions are measured in generations, and Festival in the Park is one of them. Since 1964, this beloved autumn weekend has turned the shores of Freedom Park’s lake into an open-air gallery of paintings, pottery, jewelry, woodwork and song.
Hundreds of artists from across the country line the winding paths, their tents glowing with color beneath the willow oaks. Stages keep the soundtrack rolling with bands, dancers and storytellers, while the smell of festival food drifts over the lawns and children dart between the booths with painted faces.
The festival is run by neighbors and volunteers, and it has kept its soul free and welcoming for six decades. Families who came as children now bring grandchildren to pick out a first piece of art or dance barefoot on the grass by the lake.
Freedom Park wears many crowns in Charlotte, but on festival weekend it becomes the city’s front porch. Happy City News will see you by the lake, lemonade in hand.
