What is the Festival?
The Ithaca Festival is a four day music and arts celebration, the premier event of its kind in Tompkins County. Over 1,000 talented local musicians, painters, dancers, clowns, community groups, and ensembles perform throughout the Ithaca Festival weekend. Enjoy multiple stages of entertainment, a special kid’s activity area, a sustainability expo, a craft show, a parade, and delicious festival food at various locations.
Mission
Our mission is to celebrate the artist in everyone.
History
The Ithaca Festival began in 1977 as an arts festival called “Celebration Ithaca.” Over the years the Ithaca Festival has taken many creative forms under a long tradition of excellent leadership by festival directors. Through it all, we have always remained true to our roots and to our mission to celebrate the artist in everyone. We provide a concentrated outlet for the artistic output of our greater community, from our favorite kazoo band to the nationally touring performer. The Ithaca Festival kicks off the summer with a fun, diverse, delicious, whimsical experience that we look forward to creating for many years to come.
Who’s Behind the Scenes?
A volunteer Board of Directors establishes festival policy. A full-time Executive Director and Assistant Director plan the festival and several seasonal part-time staff members oversee various programs and projects. During festival weekend, the majority of work support is provided by close to 100 volunteers.
Where Does Our Funding Come From?
The Ithaca Festival is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and a self-sustaining festival. The City of Ithaca does not provide financial support but they donate many in-kind services such as police and fire department power. The revenue from this year’s festival will ensure that the festival will return next year. The majority of our funding comes from the sale of t-shirts and buttons with sponsorships and the sale of vending real estate filling out the rest of our budget.