Flint, Michigan, boasts a dynamic arts and culture scene that offers residents and visitors a plethora of events throughout the year. From music festivals to art fairs, the city celebrates its rich creative spirit in numerous ways.
Flint Art Fair
Since 1967, the Flint Art Fair has been a cornerstone of the city’s cultural calendar. Organized by the Friends of Modern Art (FOMA), this annual event showcases original works by up to 125 artists from Michigan and beyond. Held on the second weekend of June on the grounds of the Flint Institute of Arts, the fair features a diverse range of art forms, including ceramics, glass, painting, jewelry, and sculpture. The Flint Art Fair has been recognized as one of the most ‘Artist Friendly’ venues in the state and was voted the #1 favorite summer event in Michigan by M-Live.
Flint Drop Fest
For electronic music enthusiasts, the Flint Drop Fest is a must-attend event. Celebrated annually in August, this free festival transforms downtown Flint into a vibrant hub of music and art. With over ten open-air stages hosting more than 100 performances by local, regional, and national artists, attendees can immerse themselves in a diverse musical experience. The festival also features a variety of arts, crafts, and food vendors, making it a family-friendly event that welcomes all ages.
Flint Cultural Center
The Flint Cultural Center serves as the city’s epicenter for arts, history, and science. This 30-acre campus includes institutions such as the Flint Institute of Arts, Flint Institute of Music, Sloan Museum of Discovery, and Longway Planetarium. Thanks to the Genesee County Arts Education & Cultural Enrichment Millage, county residents enjoy free general admission to the Sloan Museum and the Flint Institute of Arts, along with discounts for live performances and programs at other affiliated institutions.
Flint Institute of Music
The Flint Institute of Music (FIM) offers a diverse array of performances and educational programs. With venues like the Whiting Auditorium, Capitol Theatre, and Flint Repertory Theatre, FIM provides a platform for both local and international artists. The Flint Symphony Orchestra and the Flint School of Performing Arts further enrich the community’s musical landscape.
Riverbank Arts
Riverbank Arts is a community-centered space dedicated to supporting artistic and cultural production in Flint. As an initiative of the Arts+Culture Research Cluster at the University of Michigan-Flint, it offers a platform for creatives, community members, and academics to connect and collaborate. The space hosts exhibitions and events that explore various themes, fostering a vibrant arts community in the city.
Flint’s commitment to the arts is evident in its year-round calendar of events and institutions that celebrate creativity and culture. Whether you’re an art aficionado, music lover, or someone looking to experience the city’s vibrant community spirit, Flint’s arts and culture scene has something to offer everyone.