Triangle festival organizers face rising costs driven by inflation and demand

Organizers of three popular festivals in the Triangle this weekend say they are expecting sizable turnouts, while facing the pressure of rising costs. 

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, costs of events and festivals have increased significantly, driven by inflation and higher demand. It’s a trend organizers of Got to Be NC, Bimbé Cultural Arts Festival, and Artsplosure say they are all dealing with.

Artsplosure Executive Director Michael Lowder says overall costs for Artsplosure increase 8 to 9% year over year. 

“The two big factors that are driving that increase are the cost of rental – equipment rentals, stages, sound systems, you name it,” says Lowder. “The cost of labor now has gone up dramatically. Security, for instance, it's gone up 40% at least.” 

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North Carolina State Fair Director Kent Yelverton tells WRAL he’s noticed the greatest financial strain on vendors. 

“The cost of their supplies are always varying, whether it's their protein supplies or their dry goods supplies, they're always having to factor in those things,” Yelverton says. “Certainly, fuel is at the top of that list, because they are moving every week.”

In a statement to WRAL, Anthony Giudice with the City of Durham said there is a set budget for Bimbé.

“While prices for necessities rise, we continue to think creatively to maximize the use of the budget,” Guidice wrote. “We are committed to providing Durham with affordable — and many times free — fun, enriching, and inclusive programs, experiences, and spaces.”

None of the extra costs are being passed on to attendees across all festivals, fortunately, but Lowder worries that could change if costs continue to rise at such a steep rate. 

“We want people to come and discover great visual art, great craft, great performers.” Lowder says. “I think we can continue that, but if the economy continues the way it does, then who knows?”