Downtown Squamish will soon transform for a full weekend of art, music and community activity as The Big Weekend returns July 24 to 26, 2026.
Now in its second year, the event brings together three local favorites, the Squamish Arts Festival, the Squamish Mural Walk Festival and Open Street Day, under one shared celebration. Organizers say the combined format has proven popular with residents and visitors alike.
On Saturday, Cleveland Avenue between Winnipeg and Main Street will close to vehicle traffic, turning the corridor into a pedestrian friendly hub filled with live mural painting, local artisans, music, and family activities.
“Based on the success of last year, and an undeniable synergy between these events, we’re excited to once again offer an arts and culture extravaganza to the community,” said Clea Young, Executive Director of Squamish Arts.
The Mural Walk Festival will add two permanent murals and nine temporary ones to the town’s growing public art collection. Montreal muralist Dominic Laporte is set to begin a large scale permanent piece at 38142 Cleveland Avenue on July 14, with more murals taking shape throughout the weekend in Stan Clarke Park.
Meanwhile, the Squamish Arts Festival takes over Junction Park on July 26 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., featuring a full day of live performances, an artisan market and food trucks. This year’s headliner is singer songwriter Caley Watts, recently spotlighted by CBC Music as one of five Indigenous musicians to know. Local acts Bluesberry Jam Showband and DJ Ira Dance Party round out the lineup.
Open Street Day, running the same day, invites people to experience Cleveland Avenue as a space built for community rather than cars, with local organizations and businesses activating the street.
“During the event, our streets become a place where artists create in real time, local businesses spill onto the sidewalks, musicians perform, and thousands of people come together to experience our community,” said Kerry Neil, Executive Director of the Downtown Squamish BIA. “It’s a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and the incredible people who make downtown such a vibrant place to be.”
Organizers are encouraging attendees to walk, cycle or take transit, with a complimentary bike valet available. Accessible parking will be offered along Winnipeg Street and near Stan Clarke Park, with overflow parking at the Squamish Adventure Centre.
More details are available at squamishartsfestival.com and downtownsquamish.com.
