Artscape 2025: Everything You Need to Know About Baltimore’s Reimagined Arts Festival

The lineup of stars and performers for Artscape 2025. Photo: BOPA

Get ready for Artscape 2025 in Baltimore: an unforgettable arts festival featuring music from Fantasia, Robin Thicke, and immersive art installations.

BY KAZEEM ADELEKE, ARTCENTRON

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND-Baltimore’s beloved Artscape Festival is set to return with a stunning twist in 2025. This year’s festival promises a bold and transformative experience as it relocates from its traditional Station North venue to the vibrant heart of downtown Baltimore. Set against the backdrop of historic City Hall and the underbelly of the Jones Falls Expressway (JFX), this reimagined event will highlight the city’s creative excellence. Additionally, it will elevate local artists and be a catalyst for economic and cultural revitalization.

Here is everything you need to know about Artscape 2025, from the new location to the exciting features and world-class performances that will make this year unforgettable.

A New Location, A New Vision for Baltimore’s Artscape Festival

To revitalize Baltimore’s downtown and showcase the artistic energy at the city’s core, Artscape 2025 will take place on Memorial Day Weekend—May 24-25, 2025—in a brand new location that promises a fresh perspective. The festival will be around War Memorial Plaza, City Hall, and the space beneath the Jones Falls Expressway. This marks a significant shift from its previous spot in the Station North Arts District. This move is part of Mayor Brandon Scott’s Downtown Rise initiative. The objective is to revitalize underutilized spaces and boost economic development through the power of the arts.

With the shift to the downtown area, attendees can expect a more walkable and immersive experience, with performances, art exhibitions, and cultural programming. These activities will spread throughout historic landmarks like the War Memorial Building, Baltimore Center Stage, and Zion Church. The Jones Falls Expressway will also undergo a stunning transformation, with new murals and lighting installations that will remain long after the festival’s conclusion.

Artscape 2025: A Bold Celebration of Creativity

Artscape isn’t just another arts festival; it’s a transformative experience that brings together a diverse range of performances, visual arts, music, and immersive installations. This year’s event promises to be bold, unapologetic, and a true celebration of the creative spirit of Baltimore.

Musical Performances: A Star-Studded Lineup at Artscape 2025

One of the highlights of Artscape 2025 is the stellar lineup of musical performances. This year’s festival will feature an eclectic mix of genres, ensuring something for everyone. Headlining the event are two powerhouse performers: Fantasia Barrino and Robin Thicke.

Fantasia Barrino, the Grammy Award-winning R&B singer, will grace the stage on Saturday, May 24. Fantasia is famous for her powerhouse vocals and captivating stage presence. She will deliver an unforgettable performance that will leave festivalgoers in awe.

On Sunday, May 25, Robin Thicke, the celebrated R&B and pop singer-songwriter, will take the stage. She will headline the night with his chart-topping hits and soulful melodies. Opening for Thicke is the rising country star Tanner Adell.

Other notable performances include Little Brother, the iconic hip-hop duo, and Tweet, the soulful R&B singer. They will perform on Saturday, May 24. These performances promise to bring a mix of soulful melodies, hip-hop beats, and unforgettable energy to Artscape 2025.

**The Soul of the City Stage: A Tribute to Baltimore’s Music Scene**

A second stage, Soul of the City, will be located near the Baltimore Farmers’ Market, continuing the celebration of Baltimore’s musical roots. This stage will be a tribute to the city’s rich musical heritage and showcase local talent in a more intimate setting. With a range of performances from local artists, this stage promises to capture the soul of Baltimore through its vibrant sounds and diverse musical genres.

Immersive Art Installations: The New Frontiers of Creativity

Image: Wire Sculpture by Devin Mack was a major attraction at the Baltimore Artscape festival — Devin Mack, Wire Sculpture. Photo: Kazad/Artcentron

In 2025, Artscape will feature an array of immersive art installations designed to captivate and engage audiences. These installations are a direct reflection of the city’s commitment to supporting local artists. In addition, they will push the boundaries of what public art can achieve.

The SCOUT Art Fair: A Premiere Fine Arts Showcase

One of the most exciting additions to this year’s festival is the SCOUT Art Fair. This is a high-profile showcase curated by renowned artist Derrick Adams. Hosted at the historic War Memorial Building, the SCOUT Art Fair will feature over 50 emerging and established artists. They will present their work in an environment that bridges fine art and immersive experiences. This Art Basel-inspired marketplace will offer a range of blue-chip works. It will offer festivalgoers the opportunity to view and purchase exclusive pieces in a cozy atmosphere.

Reimagining the Jones Falls Expressway: A Canvas for Public Art

An innovative aspect of Artscape 2025 will be the transformation of the area under the Jones Falls Expressway (JFX). This iconic space will become a dynamic canvas for murals and interactive art installations. These installations will reflect Baltimore’s urban culture and creative energy. These public artworks will remain long after the festival ends, leaving a lasting impact on the city’s urban landscape.

Beyond the Reel: Celebrating Film and Digital Storytelling

In addition to traditional visual arts, Artscape 2025 will spotlight the intersection of film, television, and digital storytelling. The Beyond the Reel program will feature film screenings, panel discussions, and filmmaker showcases. The events will focus on the growing influence of Baltimore’s film and television industry. This feature provides a unique opportunity to explore how storytelling is evolving in the digital age. It offers insights into the creative economy and the role of Baltimore in shaping this global industry.

A Commitment to Sustainability and Long-Term Impact

One of the defining features of Artscape 2025 is its focus on sustainability and creating a lasting impact on Baltimore’s cultural landscape. The investments made during the festival, such as the permanent murals and public art installations under the JFX, reflect a commitment to enhancing the city’s infrastructure and cultural vitality long after the festival is over.

Mayor Brandon Scott and his team have made it clear that Artscape is not just about a two-day celebration; it’s about driving economic development, creating lasting opportunities for artists, and positioning Baltimore as a hub for artistic innovation. As Tonya Miller-Hall, Senior Advisor of Arts & Culture, stated, “When we put artists first, we set off a ripple effect that strengthens communities, drives innovation, and fuels Baltimore’s bold creative legacy.”

Artscape 2025: A Festival for All Ages

Artscape 2025 will include something for everyone, from families with young children to late-night festivalgoers. Some of the returning features include:

Kidscape: A family-friendly activation designed to engage children with hands-on art experiences, interactive storytelling, and performances that make art accessible to younger audiences.

Artscape After Dark: For those who want to experience the festival’s creative energy into the night, Artscape After Dark will feature DJ sets, avant-garde installations, and performances that push the boundaries of traditional art.

These features will ensure that Artscape remains a celebration that is accessible and enjoyable for all, regardless of age.

The Future of Artscape: Shaping Baltimore’s Cultural Identity

As Artscape 2025 unfolds, it will not only showcase the best of Baltimore’s artistic talent but also shape the city’s future. It will act as a powerful engine for economic renewal and placemaking. The festival will demonstrate how art and culture can play a crucial role in the revitalization of urban spaces. Above all, it will help to attract new energy and investments while offering local artists a platform to thrive.

More information about Artscape 2025, including vendor applications, is on the festival’s official website. Additionally, follow updates from the Mayor’s Office of Arts & Culture and the Baltimore Office of Promotion & The Arts.