AS220 is a non-profit community arts center located at 115 Empire Street in Downtown, Providence, Rhode Island, USA. AS220 maintains 19 artist live/work studios, 4 galleries, a performance space, a community darkroom, and The Broad Street Studio. The mission is to provide a forum and home for the arts and the creative population of Rhode Island. The facilities and services are made available to all artists who need a place to exhibit, perform or create their original artwork, especially those who cannot obtain space to exhibit or perform from traditional sources because of financial or other limitations. Exhibitions and performances are unjuried, uncensored, and open to all ages.
AS220, often aided by local sponsors, throws an annual block party and fundraiser for the community, often called "Fools Ball" or "Foo Fest". Since 1995, the festival has been known for its showcase of live local music acts and resident artists. A concert will oftentimes take place in the middle of Empire Street, flooding downtown with festival goers. It is considered a staple summer tradition which aims to help continue the revitalization efforts in the downtown Providence area by involving and uniting residents and local artists.