Ann Arbor, MI – September 2, 2025 – Downtown Ann Arbor is turning into an open-air gallery! The Street Art Encounter takes over Main Street on Friday, September 12, from 12 PM to 8 PM, celebrating creativity, community, and the power of public art to bring people together.
Presented by the Main Street Area Association (MSAA), this brand-new event will feature live mural painting, interactive art installations, live music, in-street dining, and family-friendly activities—all highlighting the spirit of Ann Arbor’s vibrant creative community.
“Street Art Encounter is about more than murals—it’s about connection,” said Ashley Schafer, Executive Director of the MSAA. “We’re excited to welcome such a talented group of artists to Main Street and to create a space where art, music, dining, and community all come together in the heart of downtown Ann Arbor.”
Featured Artists
This year, we’re proud to partner with John Vasquez, a nationally recognized muralist and public artist from Saginaw, Michigan. Vasquez was recently featured in the Shine Bright Saginaw Mural Project, a transformative art initiative that reimagined downtown Saginaw through vibrant, large-scale works. He’ll bring his dynamic vision and passion for public art to Ann Arbor as lead artist for Street Art Encounter.
This year’s artist lineup includes:
- Kevin Burdick
- Charlie Boike
- DeVaughn Collins
- Chris Garcia
- Freddy Diaz
- Oliver Crisostomo Sanchez (Congo)
- Cameron Jenkins (Camouflage)
- Krista Skytta
- Shannon Schneider
- Richie Blanko
- Selena Bender
- Caitlyn Williams
- Sierra Fancher & Benjamin Laman
- Sarah Nisbett
Event Highlights
- Live Art in Action – Watch as local and regional artists create large-scale works throughout the day.
- Live Music – Enjoy performances from Ain’t Dead Yet and other entertainment while exploring the art-filled streets.
- Interactive Installations – Step into community art projects where YOU can leave your mark.
- Youth + Family Zone – The Ann Arbor District Library will host hands-on creative activities for all ages.
- In-Street Dining – Dine al fresco with your favorite A2 Fall Streets participants while taking in the day’s art and music.
- Community Connections – Partner organizations will share resources and opportunities to get involved in art, sustainability, and social impact.
Admission is free, and attendees are encouraged to explore downtown Ann Arbor’s restaurants, cafés, and shops while enjoying this immersive cultural experience.