Calling All Artists, Performers, and Foodies to Dubuque-fest 2025

According to a press release from the Dubuque County Fine Arts Sociey, Dubuque’s most vibrant arts festival is back for its 46th year! DBQFest 2025 is set to transform Washington Park in downtown Dubuque into a hub of creativity, music, and community on August 2nd and 3rd, 2025. Whether you're an artist, performer, food vendor, or a local organization looking to connect, this is your chance to be part of Iowa’s longest-running arts festival!

What Is DBQFest?

DBQFest, commonly referred to as Dubuquefest, is a free, two-day festival that has celebrated arts, music, and culture since 1979. The event features a juried art fair, live performances, delicious food trucks, and interactive experiences for all ages. With thousands of visitors attending each year, DBQFest is a premier platform for artists and creatives to showcase and share their talents.

Who Can Apply?

DBQFest is now accepting applications for:

Visual Artists: Showcase your work in a juried art fair featuring painters, jewelers, photographers, sculptors, textile artists, and more. Accepted artists receive a 10’x10’ booth space ($150 fee), with an Emerging Artist Scholarship available for first-time exhibitors. Apply by March 31, 2025.
Performers & Interactive Arts Groups: Musicians, dancers, theater groups, and interactive performers are welcome to apply! Selected acts will receive compensation based on budget and requested fees. Apply by June 1, 2025.

Food Trucks & Vendors: Bring your culinary creations to festival-goers! One-day ($150) and two-day ($100) vendor spots are available. Apply by June 26, 2025.
Community Organizations: Nonprofits and community groups can engage with the crowd at a booth. Spaces are first-come, first-served with a sliding scale fee (free - $50).
Volunteers: The event needs a ton of people to make this event run smoothly. If you're interested, follow this link.

DBQFest offers unparalleled exposure in a lively, high-traffic setting. For artists, it’s a chance to sell your work and connect with art lovers of all kinds. Performers can showcase their talents on a dynamic stage, and food vendors can serve their best flavors to hungry festival-goers. Meanwhile, community organizations have the opportunity to engage with thousands of attendees in a fun and interactive way, or even volunteer to help make the festival run smoothly.

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How to Apply

Applying is easy and free! Simply visit dbqfest.com/apply and submit your application before the deadline for your specific category. Whether you're an artist, a performer, a food truck owner, or a passionate community member, DBQFest 2025 needs YOU to make this year’s festival the best one yet. Get your applications in now, and help create something amazing for the local community!