Frequently Asked Questions

When and where is NextNOW Fest?

NextNOW Fest is September 5–14, 2023, with the core festival nights taking place at The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center on September 7 & 8, 2023. Events also take place at other locations at the University of Maryland Campus and at in The Hall CP in College Park, MD.

What kinds of events are featured during NextNOW Fest?

In addition to genre-pushing, nationally renowned touring artists, NextNOW Fest features performances, workshops and other types of events by student-led groups, academic departments and university-based arts venues. You can expect an eclectic lineup of local and national performing artists.

Who can attend NextNOW Fest?

NextNOW Fest is open to Terps, neighbors and everyone!

How much does it cost to attend NextNOW Fest and do I need a ticket?

Most festival events are free and some require advance registration. For more details, consult individual event pages.

How do I sign up for text and email reminders throughout the festival?

Complete our quick registration form.

How do I receive push notifications throughout the festival?

Stay tuned for our app release to receive the latest updates via push notifications.

How can I get to NextNOW Fest?

We highly encourage attendees to use sustainable transportation options including Shuttle UM, ridesharing, biking and walking (for on-campus residents).

To plan your trip, use the following addresses:

  • The Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center: 8270 Alumni Dr, College Park, MD 20742
  • Brendan Iribe Center: 8125 Paint Branch Dr, College Park, MD 20742
  • Farmers’ Market at Tawes Plaza: 3900 Campus Dr, College Park, MD 20742
  • The Hall CP: 4656 Hotel Dr, College Park, MD 20742
  • Parren J. Mitchell Art-Sociology Building: 3834 Campus Dr, College Park, MD 20742
  • Stamp Student Union: 3972 Campus Dr, College Park, MD 20742

Will there be parking?

Most locations have parking available nearby. Visit the UMD campus parking page to learn about parking options on campus. Limited free parking is available on a surface lot outside The Hall CP for events there.

Will there be food?

Food and drink will be available for purchase at The Clarice and The Hall CP. Food is available for purchase at Breakpoint Cafe when attending festival events in the Brendan Iribe Center. Food is available for purchase at the Stamp Student Union food court when attending events there. Please note, food and drink may not be permitted when attending certain events.

Is the festival canceled in the case of inclement weather?

In the event of inclement weather, most outdoor events will be relocated to indoor spaces, but some may be canceled altogether. The NextNOW Fest 2023 app will contain the most up to date information for event locations.

Are there security policies for events at The Clarice?

Entry to NextNOW Fest at The Clarice will have a bag check for attendees. We strongly encourage but will not require FestGoers to follow the UMD Athletics bag policy. All bags will be searched by security personnel upon festival entry, and FestGoers who travel light will be able to enter the festival more quickly and easily. Only empty water bottles will be permitted; there will be free water stations and opportunities to purchase beverages inside the festival.