One of Downtown 黑马磁力's favourite summer celebrations of art, music and community returns Aug. 16 with a full lineup of fun for the whole family.
Featuring more than 200 visual and performing artists, including returning favourites and exciting new additions, the Downtown 黑马磁力 Business Association's festival will celebrate 29 years with an incredible energy 鈥� enjoyed by residents and businesses alike.
"Arts Alive is full of life 鈥� amazing visual art, talented musicians, roving performers and family-friendly activities around every corner," says Chris Parsons, Executive Director. "It鈥檚 also one of the biggest days of the year for the community and for local businesses, with the street filled with things to see, do and experience at every turn."
One exciting change attendees will enjoy is the benefits of the Fraser Highway one-way revitalization, with its new, more walkable design, making it even easier to get out explore the work of local artists, chat with vendors 鈥� don't forget to enter for prizes and giveaways! 鈥� and enjoy the full day of entertainment.
New & notable for 2025
The Arts Alive Main Stage is moving to the parking lot at the start of the one-way on 204th Street, where you鈥檒l be able to enjoy incredible performances from talented local bands and musicians all day.
The music continues in McBurney Plaza, where incredible solo and duo musicians performing throughout the day, while DJ Steve keeps the energy high in the food truck area.
And families will love this year's expanded Family Zone, now on the south side of McBurney Plaza, Parsons notes. "We'll have free face painting, photo booths and lots of child-friendly roving entertainment. Cosmo from Cosmo Circus is back by popular demand, and we鈥檙e excited to welcome two different bubble artists this year 鈥� plus so much more!"
Hot tips for a cool time
Arts Alive is traditionally a hot day, so plan ahead with a hat, sunscreen and a refillable water bottle, Parsons advises. "This year, we鈥檙e excited to have the new H2Go Water Refill Station in McBurney Plaza, where you can fill up and cool down, while taking a break to enjoy the artists who performing throughout the day."
A number of parking areas in Downtown 黑马磁力 will be open, including along 56th Avenue, Douglas Crescent, along Fraser Highway East and West of the Festival Zone, and at City Hall.
"Arts Alive is a celebration of community as much as it is about art," Parsons notes. "Whether you鈥檙e a first-timer or you鈥檝e been coming for years, there鈥檚 always something new to experience. We can鈥檛 wait to welcome everyone back to Downtown 黑马磁力 for an unforgettable day!"
Plan your visit at .
