Upfest 2022: Dates and locations announced as new major fundraiser is launched to support the huge event

Upfest, Europe’s largest street art and graffiti festival, returns to Bristol in May - but needs the public’s support to keep the event free again.

Event organisers say this year will see its biggest ever line-up of artists, with it scheduled for south Bristol on May 28 and 29.

It will be centred on Greville Smyth Park where there will be two music stages with live music and DJs.

But help is needed to get the event on, with a crowdfunder launched for £30,000 to pay for infrastructure, artistic materials and travel and accommodation for the artists.

When and where it the event on

A new format will be in place this year with street painting from 100 artists happening between May and 25.

It will be followed by a main festival at Greville Smyth Park showcasing the work from May 28 and 29.

The weekend-long celebration of street art will also have a presence at Ashton Gate Stadium and The Tobacco Factory, the original Upfest venue.

At the park there will be music and drinks being sold at the park from 11am to 8pm.

The crowdfunder

Organisers say they need to raise £30,000 towards this year’s event costs - which is around a sixth of the budget.

This will go toward infrastructure, materials for artists and travel and accommodation.

It will also ensure the event remains free.

People can support it by purchasing an official Upfest book for £30.

An optional limited edition includes a surprise back cover with an exclusive piece of artwork.

Rewards for people donations also include people having their own mural created.

What the organisers say

Stephen Hayles, Upfest founder said: “We’re incredibly proud of the growth of Upfest over the past 15 years. However, as we’ve grown so too has the cost to run the free festival.

“Crowdfunding has always played a huge part in funding Upfest and presents a perfect opportunity to raise the money needed to put on the festival and also give something back to the people who support us each year.

“As we are moving to our first ever park location, we are excited to be able to host more people than ever amongst our artists live painting in one of Bristol’s best green spaces.”

To donate, visit the fundraiser by clicking here