" " The Art of What We Do (Part 5 of 5)
top of page
Search

The Art of What We Do (Part 5 of 5)

A wide, purple-tinted photo of people in a crowd, some of whom are wearing traditional cultural clothing and dancing. The text "THE ART OF WHAT WE DO" is at the top in white, and "INTERNATIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL" is in the center in a large, white font. At the bottom right, there is a logo for "ARTSCOUNCIL FAYETTEVILLE-CUMBERLAND CO."

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at the Arts Council?


Over the next four weeks, we’re pulling back the curtain to share how we serve Fayetteville and Cumberland County through creative programs, community connections, and vibrant visual arts experiences. Whether you're strolling through our downtown gallery, visiting from out of town, or just getting to know the cultural side of Fayetteville, this is your guide to what we really do — and how it all comes together.


This week, we spoke with our President/CEO, Bob Pinson about the International Folk Festival.


How does the International Folk Festival reach members of the community?

The International Folk Festival (IFF) is held downtown each year with public performances, global cuisine, folk arts booths, and the popular Parade of Nations, so it naturally draws attendees and media attention. The Arts Council actively recruits community groups as partners, including local nonprofits, schools, and cultural associations, to participate in all aspects of the Festival. We promote the event extensively and invite all residents and visitors to take part in the festivities.



Who are some community members that are served by IFF?

Local immigrant and diaspora communities share their heritage through music, dance, and food. Local artists and performers gain exposure on a public stage. Residents of all backgrounds attend for free entertainment and cultural learning. Volunteers, vendors, and artists benefit from sales opportunities and visibility.





How does IFF receive funding?

Primary support comes from the Arts Council’s budget, which itself is funded in part through the City of Fayetteville, Cumberland County, and the North Carolina Arts Council. Additional funding comes from event sponsorships with private individuals, local businesses, and nonprofit partners.



How does IFF impact the local economy and tourism?

A 2023 study by Americans for the Arts found that nonprofit arts and culture in Fayetteville/Cumberland County generated $72.2 million in total economic activity in 2022, supported over 1,100 jobs, provided $44.1 million in personal income, and generated $9.5 million in tax revenue. In April 2024, the Arts Council reported that arts and cultural events, including IFF, drew more than 900,000 visitors to the region. IFF contributes by attracting visitors who dine, shop, and stay overnight in the city, boosting local restaurants, hotels, retail, and parking, as well as exposing repeat tourism potential via cultural engagement.



Is there anything else people should know about IFF that they might not be aware of?

  1. Cultural learning: IFF is not just entertainment; it’s designed to celebrate cultural diversity and foster unity across backgrounds. Participants often include folk dance troupes, storytellers, artisans, and culinary traditions from around the world.

  2. Volunteer and community engagement opportunities: Individuals can volunteer as greeters, parade marshals, and booth staff, not just attendees or vendors.

  3. Longstanding tradition: 2025 marks the 47th year of the International Folk Festival, showing consistency and growth since its founding. This consistent event helps anchor Fayetteville’s cultural calendar.



Want to help support the arts?


Give today and help us continue making an impact on arts and culture here in Fayetteville | Cumberland County.


For regular updates on the Arts Council, follow this organization on Facebook (@ArtsCouncilFay) or Instagram (@artscouncilfay).

bottom of page