One doesn't go to the Lexington Avenue Arts & Fun Festival (LAAFF), one experiences it. What began as a small block party ten years ago has mushroomed into one of the region’s largest independent street festivals, expanding to two days this year: 11–11 p.m. on Saturday, September 3, and 11–9 p.m. on Sunday, September 4.

This free and creative event, sponsored by Arts2People, will again feature all local art, food, beer, and street performers on Lexington Avenue between College Street and the I-240 overpass. LAAFF celebrates the freaky, fun side of Asheville that gives our town its irresistible edge.

There will be three stages and two courtyards of music and performances including rock-and-roll, indie pop, funk, folk, ragtime, reggae, world beats, bluegrass, drummers, vaudeville, fire dancers, break dancers, hula hoopers, circus acts (are you beginning to get the idea?). There will also be face painting, dancing, freak fashions, hands-on art opportunities, and plenty of “say what?” surprises. Plenty for big kids and little kids alike.

Musical lineup this year includes Kings of Prussia, Shake It Like a Caveman, GFE, The Ville Boys, Jonathan Scales Fourchestra, Hillside Bombers, The Goodies, Stephaniesid, Soulgrass Rebellion, Zansa, Sonmi Suite, Bloodroot Orkestra, 23 Skidoo, The Cheeksters, and Zombie Queen. There will also be great DJs on the Walnut and BoBo stages and performances from The Urban Arts Institute, Unifire Theatre, and Natty Queen.

For more information, visit lexfestasheville.com.