Our Programming

The Northampton Arts Council (NAC) supports a vibrant, year-round calendar of arts and cultural programs that bring people together across Northampton. From large-scale festivals and public performances to grants, youth programming, and public art, our work centers creativity, accessibility, and community.

Below is an overview of our core programs and initiatives.

Major Annual Events

First Night Northampton

Our citywide New Year’s Eve festival, filling downtown with music, performance, art, and family-friendly activities. First Night Northampton brings together local and regional performers across multiple venues, culminating in our signature fireworks and countdown to the new year.

Silver Chord Bowl

The region’s premier collegiate a cappella showcase, Silver Chord Bowl brings top college vocal groups to Northampton’s historic venues for an afternoon of stunning performances and community celebration.

Four Sundays

A winter festival of performance and community featuring four distinct Sunday events that highlight local artists, storytellers, musicians, and cultural organizations. Four Sundays in February brightens the winter with accessible, family-friendly programming.

KidsBestFest & Northampton Youth Cinema Festival

Two free film festivals for children and teens.

• KidsBestFest features high-quality, youth-appropriate films from around the world.

• Northampton Youth Cinema Festival showcases work created by young filmmakers, uplifting youth voices and creativity on the big screen.

Transformance (formerly Transperformance)

Northampton’s beloved end-of-summer musical tradition, where local musicians transform themselves into famous artists and bands for one unforgettable evening. Proceeds support arts programming and grants throughout the year.

Bands on Brewster

A downtown outdoor summer music series featuring live performances on Brewster Court. Bands on Brewster brings free, accessible music to the heart of Northampton and supports local and regional musicians.

Salsa in the Plaza & Salsa in the Park

Free community dance events that turn public spaces into lively, inclusive dance floors. Live music or DJs, open dance, and instruction welcome dancers of all levels and ages.

The Bow Bow Bash

Our major fundraiser for the J. Scott Brandon (JSB) Fund, the Bow Bow Bash showcases some of the best high school bands at the Iron Horse in downtown Northampton. The event raises crucial funds to support school field trips and youth-focused arts experiences.

The Taste of Northampton

Every fall, The Taste of Northampton brings together a diverse array of flavors, showcasing both local and international cuisines with live music and family-friendly activities.

Public Art & Creative Placemaking

Public Art & Mural Program

Our Public Art & Mural initiative supports new mural installations and creative projects throughout downtown Northampton. We work with local, regional, and visiting artists to bring murals, temporary works, and collaborative public art into downtown spaces, and community gathering places—transforming walls, walkways, and underused spaces into vibrant cultural landmarks.

Grants & Artist Support

The Northampton Arts Council administers several grant programs that invest directly in artists, educators, performers, cultural workers, and community organizations:

• ArtsEZ Grants – Supporting Northampton-based arts projects, performances, exhibitions, and creative initiatives.

• Local Cultural Council (LCC) Grants – Part of the statewide Massachusetts Cultural Council network, funding a wide range of cultural activities that benefit the public.

• BJ Goodwin Fund – Formed in honor of performer, dancer, and educator BJ Goodwin, this award provides grants to Northampton-based artists, writers, or arts organizations in recognition of exceptional work. The fund supports the further development of their talents by enabling artists to travel outside the community for research, training, creative exploration, or professional growth.

• J. Scott Brandon Fund – Supporting music lessons and school field trips for music students, including both voice and instrumental study.

We also provide support for community partners and local arts organizations, helping them produce events, strengthen their work, and reach more residents through collaboration, promotion, and shared resources.

Access & Inclusion

Across all of our programming, NAC is committed to accessibility and equity. Sponsorships and community support help us:

• Keep many events low-cost or free to attend

• Provide stipends and fair pay to artists

• Support youth and family programming

• Participate in initiatives like Card to Culture, which connects EBT, WIC, and ConnectorCare cardholders with discounted or free admission to arts experiences

• Invest in new public artworks that reflect the diversity of our community

  
  

Get Involved

We invite you to attend a program, volunteer, apply for a grant, partner with us, or become a sponsor and help sustain Northampton’s creative heartbeat.