stART, an innovative arts celebration on the street, was the brainchild of an independent group of local artists and art lovers at its inception in 2002. stART is organized by a group of dedicated volunteers committed to changing the cultural scope of Worcester and Central Massachusetts. stART on the Street is the signature event: a one-day arts, music, and cultural celebration on Park Avenue in Worcester, MA.
Initially held on Main Street in Worcester, the festival moved to Park Avenue in 2006, to overwhelming accolades and the largest attendance to date. The festival hosted an increasing number of arts and crafts vendors each year until reaching 300 in September 2013, and has since held steady with roughly 275 artists, each demonstrating and selling their hand-crafted items. Stages host a variety of live bands from rock & roll, alternative, jazz, Latin, instrumental, and more. Street performers entertain audiences with acrobatics, comedy, Africa-Brazilian Capoeira demonstrations, a cappella groups, acoustic music, dance and other genres of performance art. Various activities, offered by local organizations hosting interactive art features for kids and all ages, have been a popular attraction for families throughout the years.
Awards & Accolades
- In 2012, stART Coordinators were awarded Keys to the City of Worcester for their contribution to Worcester’s art scene and local economy. They were again honored by the City in 2013.
- stART on the Street has been voted Best Annual Festival by Worcester Magazine readers in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, and 2019.
- Worcester Telegram & Gazette readers voted stART on the Street Best Local Event in Central MA in 2018, and Best Festival/Special Event in 2015.