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Graffiti art has evolved from an underground movement into a respected and influential part of the contemporary art world. Nowhere is that more visible than at graffiti and street art festivals, where entire city blocks become open-air museums and walls transform into vibrant canvases.
These festivals are more than just celebrations of creativity; they’re community-building, culture-shaping experiences that bring together artists, locals, and global fans. Whether you’re new to urban art or a lifelong admirer, these top graffiti festivals are sure to ignite your passion and introduce you to incredible creators, including some from the RevArt community.
Photo by Marjorie Matias
Why Graffiti Festivals Matter
Street art festivals have evolved into cultural institutions that shape urban identity and foster global creativity. Once dismissed as vandalism, graffiti and mural art are now recognized as powerful tools of expression, activism, and regeneration.
These festivals elevate street art into the realm of contemporary fine art, as highlighted in The Evolution of Street Art. They also act as catalysts for community development, social commentary, and tourism. According to Street Art as a Tool for Community Engagement, mural projects often lead to a sense of local pride and even economic uplift.
Major Festival Spotlights
1. Upfest (United Kingdom)
Held in Bristol, the birthplace of Banksy, Upfest is Europe’s largest graffiti festival. Since 2008, it has attracted over 300 artists each year from around the world. The event turns South Bristol into a sprawling gallery of murals, from shopfronts to public parks.
The 2024 edition featured tributes to pop culture, community-based art, and large-scale installations that showcase both technical mastery and bold messaging.
2. Hawaii Walls (formerly POW! WOW!)
Initially launched as POW! WOW! This festival, now rebranded as Hawaii Walls, has become a global phenomenon. Based in Honolulu’s Kakaʻako district, it hosts muralists, musicians, and youth workshops focused on creativity and education.
With global satellites in cities like Tokyo and Washington, D.C., it’s one of the most far-reaching street art festivals. Learn more via Hawaii Public Radio.
3. Meeting of Styles (Global)
This international graffiti jam began in Germany and has since grown to over 25 countries. What makes Meeting of Styles special is its emphasis on collaboration. Rather than competition, artists come together to co-create large-scale walls that reflect social and political themes.
Explore the reach of this global movement on I Support Street Art.
Photo by Anderson Guerra
Other Notable Festivals
4. MURAL Festival (Montreal, Canada)
Montreal’s MURAL Festival brings together urban art, music, and public engagement. Visitors can enjoy live painting, guided mural tours, panel discussions, and a street party atmosphere that showcases Montreal’s reputation as a North American art capital.
→ Learn more via Tourisme Montréal.
Photo by Eva Bronzini
5. Bushwick Collective Block Party (New York City)
Born from grassroots efforts in Brooklyn, the Bushwick Collective started as a neighborhood beautification project and grew into an international street art landmark. The annual block party attracts muralists from around the world, combining graffiti, food, and music.
For more details, visit Street Art NYC.
6. Roskilde Festival Graffiti (Denmark)
While primarily known for its music, Denmark’s Roskilde Festival has a vibrant graffiti program where artists paint live on massive walls during the event. The festival’s progressive spirit is reflected in the politically charged street art that emerges each year.
Read about the graffiti zone on Molotow Blog.
Photo by Eduardo Romero
7. Street Art Festivals in Germany
Germany hosts several city-wide street art festivals, such as the International Street Art Festival in Wilhelmshaven and the Street Art Festival in Blumberg. These festivals play a key role in transforming small towns into urban art hubs and boosting regional tourism.
Find your next destination via Germany Travel.
8. Nuart Festival (Stavanger, Norway)
Nuart stands apart for its academic and activist orientation. With curated themes, symposiums, and experimental street interventions, Nuart is a playground for politically engaged artists pushing the limits of public art.
Read more about Nuart’s founder and mission in Huck Magazine.
Conclusion
Graffiti festivals are more than just bursts of color—they’re catalysts for dialogue, inclusion, and creative freedom. From Bristol’s Upfest to Montreal’s MURAL Festival and Brooklyn’s Bushwick Collective, each event showcases the power and transformative impact of public art.
Inspired to learn more or work with a street artist?
Follow @revart.co on Instagram and connect on LinkedIn for urban art features, behind-the-scenes interviews, and artist calls.
Let’s celebrate street art, one wall at a time.