UPFEST returns to Bristol this weekend, transforming Bedminster and Southville into a huge open-air gallery as more than 300 artists begin painting over 150 live murals across the city.
Running from Friday 15 - Sunday 31 May, Europe’s largest live street art festival will bring 17 days of live art, DJs, workshops, artist takeovers, talks and free family activities to BS3, with Tobacco Factory once again becoming the festival’s creative hub across three major Saturday Sessions.
Across the festival’s three Saturday Sessions (16, 23 and 30th May), Tobacco Factory will host live DJs curated by DJ Cridge, artist takeovers, live painting with 150 artists, workshops and free drop-in activities from midday until late, making it one of the main gathering points for visitors throughout the festival.
Artists kicking off the opening weekend with live mural painting include Cheba, whose vibrant work draws inspiration from nature, space and everyday life; Mister Samo, the trans activist artist behind bold murals celebrating joy, love and inclusion; Bristol street artist DFTE, known for witty and philosophical handwritten messages that have become iconic across the city and this year’s Festival Artist Melo, recognised for her playful, character-led murals recently featured as part of Quakers Friars Art Lane near Cabot Circus. More than 100 additional artists will paint throughout the festival period, with full schedules and locations available via the UPFEST online calendar.
Alongside the live murals, visitors can get involved in a packed programme of creative workshops and experiences taking place throughout the opening weekend, designed to make street art and creativity accessible to everyone. Activities include Posca Mindful Mandalas transforming old vinyl records into colourful artwork, hands-on mosaic making with Bristol tile artist Angus, Lego printing workshops with artist Amy Hutchings, collaborative tile murals, customisation stations and free-flowing illustration spaces with Posca, alongside family-friendly drop-in sessions at Molly’s Craft Corner. Visitors can also take part in artist Q&As, photography-led discussions and a range of interactive creative experiences across Bedminster and Tobacco Factory throughout the weekend.
Steve Hayles, Co-Founder of UPFEST, said: “There’s nothing quite like the atmosphere when UPFEST begins and Bristol’s walls start coming alive. What makes the festival so special is that it’s not just about watching incredible artists paint - it’s about getting involved, trying something creative yourself and seeing the city transformed in real time.
“This year’s programme is one of our biggest yet, with artists travelling from across the world alongside an incredible line-up of Bristol talent. Whether you’re coming to watch murals being painted, join a workshop, listen to DJs at Tobacco Factory or simply wander around and explore, there really is something for everyone.”
This year’s festival has been supported through funding from Arts Council England, helping expand the public workshop programme and ensure the festival remains free and accessible for audiences, artists and communities.
UPFEST’s long-standing charity partner, Nacoa (National Association for Children of Alcoholics), will once again be part of the festival programme, raising awareness and funds throughout the event. Based in Bristol, the charity supports children, young people and adults affected by a parent’s drinking through confidential advice, support services and resources. Festival-goers will be able to find Nacoa volunteers across the kids’ areas delivering activities, face painting and fundraising throughout the event.
UPFEST would like to thank this year’s volunteers, with 120 joining the crew this year. UPFEST 2026 is supported by MTN Spraypaints, POSCA, Bristol BID, Cabot Circus, Niche Frames, Bristol Beer Factory, Plaster Communications and WG Scaffolding.
More information, including the full event calendar and workshop spaces can be found at www.upfest.co.uk.
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