LLC exterior
Jessica Fichot band
Arts Education
NVA mural
Sculpture garden
Cannon Art Gallery
Fire Station 2

The City of Carlsbad’s historic support of arts and culture as a core value led to the establishment of its Cultural Arts Division in 1986 as part of the city’s investment in the visual and performing arts. We strive to enhance the vitality of the city and the quality of life for all residents by supporting an environment where arts and cultural organizations thrive, and people of all ages enjoy opportunities for expression and lifelong learning. All cultural arts events and programs are free admission.

Library and arts donations

Recently, the City Council accepted more than $350,000 in donations from three local non-profit organizations.
Post Date:07/08/2026 3:11 PM

The city’s Library & Cultural Arts Department offers robust year-round programming, including the popular TGIF Concerts in the Parks series, thanks in part to the generosity of community organizations.  

Recently, the City Council accepted more than $350,000 in donations from three local non-profit organizations: 

  • Carlsbad Library & Arts Foundation: Donated $229,377 to support programs at the Schulman Auditorium, library materials and services at the Library Learning Center, exhibits and education programs at the Cannon Art Gallery, and pop-up art activities at the TGIF Concerts in the Parks. 

  • Friends of the Carlsbad Library: Contributed $100,000 to provide supplies for children and teens, support technology programming and help fund programs, performances, presentations and lecture series, including the annual Carlsbad Reads Together author visit. 

  • Carlsbad Friends of the Arts: Donated $25,000 to support TGIF Concerts in the Parks and other cultural arts programs. 

These contributions, made possible through community fundraising, family endowments, bookstore sales, and memberships, help keep Carlsbad a place where residents can enjoy arts, culture and lifelong learning.

Return to full list >>