Victoria’s Moss Street Paint-In transforms street into outdoor art gallery for 37th annual festival

Road closures planned as thousands expected for Victoria’s annual Moss Street Paint-In.

For one summer day, Moss Street trades traffic for brushstrokes.

The 13-block stretch will become a living canvas Saturday, July 18, as thousands of visitors return for the 37th annual Art Gallery Paint-In, a celebration where art moves beyond gallery walls and into the heart of the community.

More than 180 artists from Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands will line Moss Street between Fort Street and Dallas Road, showcasing paintings, sculptures, ceramics and other works while demonstrating their craft throughout the day.

Hosted by the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria, the free outdoor festival has become one of Vancouver Island’s biggest summer arts traditions, drawing more than 50,000 visitors each year to explore, connect and experience art in a unique setting.

From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., visitors can meet artists, discover new work and enjoy demonstrations, activities and local food along the festival route. A family-friendly beverage garden will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the gallery parking lot, while the gallery itself will be open with admission by donation.

Visitors can also explore the gallery’s summer exhibitions, browse the gallery shop featuring local artisans and take part in curator-led exhibition tours throughout the afternoon.

For many artists and visitors, the Paint-In is more than a one-day event. It is a chance for creativity to become a shared experience, a place where conversations begin, new work is discovered and the community comes together through art.

But with thousands expected to attend, Victoria police are reminding people to plan ahead before heading to Moss Street.

In a statement, the Victoria Police Department said road users and nearby residents should prepare for temporary closures connected to the event.

“Moss Street between Purcell Place and Rockland Avenue will be partially closed for event set up at 6:00 a.m. Then Moss Street between Fort Street and Dallas Road will be closed to vehicle traffic from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,” VicPD said.

Drivers will still be able to cross Moss Street at Fairfield Road, but no on-street parking will be permitted along the festival route.

VicPD said event staff, volunteers, marshals and Special Duty members will work together to provide traffic control and site security throughout the day.

“All road users are encouraged to slow down and take extra precautions around the larger crowd anticipated in the area,” police said.

Visitors are encouraged to walk, cycle or take transit where possible. Designated bicycle parking will be available nearby at Central Middle School.

The Art Gallery Paint-In has grown into more than an annual festival. It’s a gathering place for artists, neighbours and visitors, a celebration shaped by creativity, connection and the simple act of stopping to appreciate something beautiful.