York’s first mural festival is coming this summer – and will transform Acomb into an ‘open-air gallery’.
Internationally renowned mural artists will deliver York’s first creative mural festival from 3 to 5 July 2026 in Acomb.
Acomb Fest will take place across 15 venues with four live mural paintings, 10 art installations, live paint jam and spray battles, over 30 bands, DJs and performers and a packed programme of creative events for all ages.
Artist headliners include Australian SMUG, known as ‘the world’s best photorealistic artist’, Sheffield based muralist and runner up for ‘Best mural in the World’ 2024, Peachzz, world-leading wildlife artist Curtis Hylton, and returning Acomb superstar Sledone.
Surprise acts and secret pop ups will form a nature-inspired open-aired art gallery as a pre-festival installation.
Participating venues in Acomb include Blue Bird, SoJo, The Tap, The Fox, Acomb Methodist Church, Gateway Church, Acomb Explore Library, Book and Bevs, the Carlton Tavern, and Holgate Windmill.
Events will include free street art workshops, artist talks, bush craft, live spray battles, community cinema, spoken word performances, artist market, exhibitions, trails, light installations, history tours, and much more.
There will be specialist food and drink offerings throughout the festival including Spirit of Yorkshire and an international mixologist.
The festival was shaped by speaking to over 1100 residents which have co-produced the important theme around returning to nature.
The festival was made possible by funding from York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority Vibrant and Sustainable High Street Fund, Great Acomb Community Forum, City of York Council, York St John University and local business and the community.
David Skaith, Mayor of York and North Yorkshire said: “High streets are constantly changing, but they have, and always will be, hubs for our communities. That’s why I’m backing community led projects across York and North Yorkshire.
“Like Acomb Fest, which will transform Acomb High Street into an open-air gallery and event centre, creating legacy and vibrancy through co-production, talent development and sustainability.
“Residents and businesses understand most of what is needed in their communities, and I am proud to be backing their plans with my Vibrant and Sustainable High Street Fund.”
Each venue will have its own bespoke offer with individual tickets and availability being released on the Acomb Fest website. Tickets and listings will become available here.
