Harvard University’s campus-wide celebration of the arts returns May 1–4, 2025, under its new name: Arts Fest (formerly ARTS FIRST). Over four days, iconic spaces across Harvard’s campus transform into hubs of performance, expression, and community. 

More than 5,000 visitors attend each year, enjoying live music, dance, visual art, theater, film, and hands-on activities in both indoor and outdoor settings—from Harvard Yard to campus museums, galleries, and classrooms.

Festival Highlights Include:
– Afro-Cuban jazz concert led by Yosvany Terry
– Performance and conversation with 2025 Harvard Arts Medalist Davòne Tines ’09
– A pop music concert reimagined for jazz orchestra
– The vibrant Performance Fair, featuring short shows across 11 stages in one day
– Interactive artmaking activities for families

Produced by the Office for the Arts at Harvard, this annual event invites the public to experience the creative energy of Harvard students, faculty, staff, and alumni.

Most events are free and open to all. Select performances will also be livestreamed at HarvardArts on YouTube.