Street art has become a global phenomenon, with artists taking to the streets to showcase their creativity and talent. Street art festivals have popped up all over the world, attracting both local and international artists to showcase their work. These festivals not only bring art to the masses but also help to revitalize urban spaces and bring communities together. Here are some of the best street art festivals globally that every art enthusiast should attend:
1. Pow! Wow! Hawaii – Hawaii, USA
Started in 2010, Pow! Wow! Hawaii has become one of the most anticipated street art festivals in the world. Taking place in the Kaka’ako neighborhood of Honolulu, this festival attracts some of the biggest names in street art to create stunning murals on the walls of buildings throughout the area. In addition to the murals, Pow! Wow! Hawaii also features gallery shows, artist talks, and live music events, making it a must-see for any art lover.
2. Upfest – Bristol, UK
Upfest is Europe’s largest street art festival, attracting over 300 artists from around the world to paint the walls of Bristol with their amazing creations. The festival takes place in the Bedminster neighborhood of the city and features live painting, workshops, and music events. Upfest has helped to transform Bristol into a hub for street art and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the urban art scene.
3. Mural Festival – Montreal, Canada
Montreal’s Mural Festival has quickly become one of the most popular street art festivals in North America. Held in the city’s Plateau-Mont-Royal neighborhood, the festival features over 100 murals created by both local and international artists. In addition to the murals, Mural Festival also hosts concerts, film screenings, and art exhibitions, making it a vibrant celebration of street art and culture.
4. Street Prints Mauao – Tauranga, New Zealand
Street Prints Mauao is New Zealand’s largest street art festival, held in the coastal city of Tauranga. The festival brings together artists from all over the country to create stunning murals on the walls of buildings in the city center. Street Prints Mauao also features workshops, artist talks, and guided tours, making it a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant street art scene in New Zealand.
5. Bushwick Collective Block Party – New York City, USA
The Bushwick Collective Block Party is an annual event held in the Bushwick neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. Founded by local street artist Joe Ficalora, the festival features live painting, music, and food vendors, attracting thousands of visitors each year. The Bushwick Collective Block Party has helped to transform the neighborhood into a mecca for street art, showcasing the work of both emerging and established artists.
6. Nuart Aberdeen – Aberdeen, Scotland
Nuart Aberdeen is a satellite event of the famous Nuart Festival held in Stavanger, Norway. The festival brings together local and international artists to create large-scale murals throughout the city of Aberdeen. In addition to the murals, Nuart Aberdeen also features guided tours, artist talks, and workshops, making it a unique celebration of street art in Scotland.
These are just a few of the best street art festivals globally that showcase the incredible talent and creativity of artists from around the world. Whether you’re a street art enthusiast or just looking to experience something new, attending one of these festivals is sure to be a memorable and inspiring experience.