Celebrate 69 Years of Art, Music and Culture at Wilkes-Barre's Fine Arts Fiesta
Every third week in May, the arts take over Public Square in downtown Wilkes-Barre for the annual Fine Arts Fiesta. This free, family-friendly four-day celebration brings together local and regional musicians, dancers, theater performers, poets, artisans, and crafters for a weekend full of creativity and community. The tents go up, the stage comes to life, and food trucks and vendors of all kinds roll in—setting the scene for a joyful, art-filled experience.
As the oldest multi-disciplinary arts festival of its kind in Pennsylvania, the Fine Arts Fiesta has been growing strong since 1956. It draws thousands of visitors each year and gives local artists and arts organizations a chance to shine—whether on the main stage or inside the tented gallery spaces. This year’s theme, “Listen to Your Art,” invites guests to experience the many ways art speaks to us all.
From Thursday morning through Sunday evening, the main stage at the Fine Arts Fiesta is all about celebrating the incredible talent right here in NEPA. You’ll hear high school concert choirs harmonize with heart, watch young dancers leap across the stage with grace, feel the rhythm of local jazz ensembles like the Wyoming Valley West High School Jazz Band, and so much more.
It’s four days of nonstop entertainment, brought to you by the students and performers who keep our local arts scene thriving.
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Mark your calendars for Saturday, May 17, at 7 p.m., when Pennsylvania’s own roots rock band, The Badlees, will take the main stage. Known for their hit “Angeline Is Coming Home,” this free concert is a must-see event of the Fine Arts Fiesta.
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The adult and student juried art show, found under the tents in the middle of the Square, is a highlight of the Fine Arts Fiesta. Stroll through the numerous galleries showcasing watercolor, oil, pen and ink, photography and sculpture as well as the winning juried artwork from professional, amateur and student artists.
Local and regional artisans are a big part of what makes the Fine Arts Fiesta so special. Stroll through the Artists’ Market and explore a wide variety of handmade goods—woodwork, pottery, glass, paintings, photos, jewelry, and more. There’s a good chance you’ll catch artists creating right at their booths or taking custom orders while you shop.
This year’s Artist in Residence is ceramicist Kim Allen Gleed, who brings over 20 years of pottery experience. A Mountain Top native, Kim began her artistry at Roberson Clayworks in Binghamton and now teaches at Mud Luv Pottery Studio in Carlisle.
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Come for the arts and entertainment and grab a bite to eat from the assortment of food trucks parked around the Square. From ethnic choices like empanadas, pierogies and potato pancakes to pizza, gyros, fresh-cut fries, ice cream, fudge and more, you’ll come hungry and leave satisfied.
The Fine Arts Fiesta is packed with fun for kids, especially at the Children’s Art Workshop, where little artists can dive into hands-on, make-and-take crafts. Throughout the weekend, they’ll also enjoy puppet shows, story time with the Osterhout Library, face painting, a strolling mime, a friendly clown and so much more.
69th Annual Fine Arts Fiesta
When: May 15 – 18, 2025
Times: Thursday – Saturday 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Entertainment: Times vary, see schedule for complete lineup
Where: Wilkes-Barre Public Square
Cost: All activities and performances are free and open to the public
Headlining Act: Saturday, May 17 at 7 p.m. featuring The Badlees
For detailed schedules, a festival map, and more information, visit the Fine Arts Fiesta online. And be sure to follow them on Facebook for the latest updates.
Explore NEPA’s spring fairs and festivals for local food, music and family-friendly fun all season long.
Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 5/09/2024.
