~Photo coutesy of Somerville Arts Council

City’s marquee festival to feature 70 craft vendors, live music all day, dance showcase, town crier, community parade, and more

Community members are invited to “ArtBeat 2026: REVolution” on Saturday, July 18, from 12 to 9 p.m. in Davis Square (rain date: Sunday, July 19). Admission is free and open to all.

Now in its 40^th year, ArtBeat is one of Somerville’s largest festivals, transforming Davis Square into a bustling celebration of creativity and community. The festival will feature over 70 craft vendors, multiple food vendors, two performance stages showcasing a dynamic mix of music, dance, theater, literary readings, and interactive activities—all highlighting Somerville’s diverse and vibrant arts scene.

This year’s theme, “REVolution,” honors the 250^th anniversary of the United States while inviting artists and attendees to creatively explore the spirit of transformation and challenging the status quo. Streets will be hopping with vendors, roaming performers (even a town crier!), and music from 12 to 7 p.m. At 5 p.m., a REVolutionary parade will lead attendees from the Elm Street stage to Seven Hills Park, where music will continue until 9 p.m. Keep cool throughout by filling up your water bottle at the water buggy in Davis Sq., set up your umbrella on the Seven Hills Park lawn, or visit a shade tent near the Elm St. Stage, in Seven Hills Park, and near the main traffic island in Davis Square.

“This summer is chock-full of celebrating the people, places, and connections that make Somerville unique, and the return of ArtBeat makes it all the more special,” said Mayor Jake Wilson. “I can’t wait to experience the talent of our local creatives and their interpretations of where we’ve been and where we’re headed.”

The event takes place throughout Davis Square, including Seven Hills Park, Elm Street, and Holland Street, which will be closed to traffic. Find photos, descriptions, and start times for all ArtBeat performers at: bit.ly/artbeat2026.

More Information

For all ArtBeat information, please visit: bit.ly/artbeat2026.

 MBTA Bus Information 

MBTA Buses Routes: 87, 88, 89, 90, 94, and 96 will be rerouted from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Please see mbta.com for full detour information.