5th Annual Clarke Fest Set for April 26

Come one, come all—Clarke Fest returns to Clarke Drive on Saturday, April 26! The university’s fifth annual street festival is open to the community and will take place from 4-7 p.m. on the Clarke University campus. In case of inclement weather, activities will move from the Atrium lawn to the Robert & Ruth Kehl Center.  

Guests can enjoy family-friendly games and crafts, as well as free performances from Clarke Jazz & Melos and Adam’s Dance Connection. 

Some of Clarke’s fantastic student work will also be on display, with artist features in the Quigley gallery as well as an art sale, with all proceeds going to the student and faculty artists. For those wishing to enjoy a meal during the event, some of the area’s favorite food trucks will be on site including Versus and Vesperman’s Ice Cream.  

“Clarke Fest celebrates the work of our students, faculty, and staff and invites our community to campus to join in that celebration.” said Dr. Rob Stull, Chair of the Arts at Clarke Committee. “This event wouldn’t be possible without student led initiatives from across campus. It has a carnival-like atmosphere with games, inflatable entertainment, music, and art. I hope people will join us for this fun, free event for the Dubuque community!”   

During Clarke Fest, a portion of Clarke Drive will be closed spanning from Mary Frances Clarke Hall to Terence Donaghoe Hall Theatre. All Clarke parking lots will remain open and will allow for free parking during the event.  

Additionally, high school students who are interested in attending Clarke University can sign up for our Clarke Preview Day event prior to Clarke Fest. Running from 2-4:30 p.m., this unique visit event allows prospective students and their guests to tour campus and meet with Admissions staff, on top of all the fun activities Clarke Fest has to offer.    

To learn more about Clarke Fest and see the schedule of performances, visit clarke.edu/clarkefest.