A month packed with local music festivals closes out in grand style with the 17th annual Carrboro Music Festival on Sunday, September 28. Additional music kicks off this year’s fest on Saturday the 27th. The day-long event on Sunday features over 180 performing acts at 25 indoor and outdoor venues. And it’s all free.

The festival started in 1998 as part of the French celebration known as Fête de la Musique, a free festival of music celebrated worldwide on the summer solstice. In 2002, Carrboro’s celebration of “The Fête” was moved to the last Sunday in September and became the Carrboro Music Festival. Showcasing Triangle-area performers, the festival is a coordinated effort of the Carrboro Recreation & Parks Department and the Carrboro Music Festival Planning Committee. All performers donate their talents to foster a strong sense of community and to expose their music to a wide audience.

On Saturday, the 2014 event kicks off at Carrboro Town Commons from 2 to 6 pm. Music continues at 9:00 with a free show in the Back Room at Cat’s Cradle.

Sunday the 28th, the festival starts at 1 pm and runs through the evening at venues throughout downtown Carrboro.

For a map showing venue locations and a complete performance schedule, click here.