Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost of hosting events and festivals has climbed sharply, fueled by inflation and increased demand for vendors, equipment, and entertainment. Organizers of events such as Got to Be NC Festival, Bimbé Cultural Arts Festival, and Artsplosure say they are all feeling the financial strain.

Kent Yelverton, Director of the North Carolina State Fair, joined Jeff Hamlin to discuss the challenges of rising event costs and what it means for festivals moving forward.