Collaborative community painting (by numbers).--SUBMITTED PHOTO
This year, Art in Motion is the same – but different. At its heart, it remains a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and community. Yet every year, it evolves, shaped not only by the many organizations and artists who bring it to life, but also by you. Your presence, energy, and feedback transform the festival into something unique.
When Art in Motion first launched, it featured around 30 local artists, a dozen market vendors, and community partners. Since then, it has grown and blossomed. In 2025, you can expect more than 40 market vendors, a mix of returning favourites and brand-new activations, filling First Street SE from 4th to 6th Avenue with colour, sound, and creativity.
On Sept. 13 from noon to 5 p.m., we’re tightening the footprint to make every corner count. First Street SE and surrounding areas will come alive in unexpected ways, from plazas and courtyards to rarely used green spaces.
Informal stages will pop up on the Esplanade lawn and behind the Medicine Hat Public Library, showcasing musicians and family-friendly entertainment from across Alberta and British Columbia.
Meanwhile, the Esplanade walkway will transform into a runway for the Saamis Immigration Cultural Catwalk – a stunning and educational fashion show featuring traditional clothing from around the globe, proudly worn and celebrated.
One of this year’s new highlights is Sticks on First: a high-energy, 10-team, 4-on-4 street hockey tournament. It’s fast-paced, community-spirited, and supports the YMCA of Southeastern Alberta. Whether you’re a sports fan or an art lover, you’ll feel the rush of hockey right in the heart of downtown.
Favourites return, too. The interactive graffiti wall is back, now joined by live art from Mural Fest! In one section of the street, five artists will paint on portable billboards, giving you a front-row seat for a taste of the colour, hope, and culture this annual event brings to Medicine Hat.
Entertainment, activities, glitter tattoos, face painting, and more are open to the whole family and FREE. You can even step into history with In-Time Live History at the Ewart-Duggan House, where an interactive quest will bring the past to life. For those seeking support and connection, the Resource Fair offers access to inclusive community services and information, fostering a stronger sense of belonging for all.
Art in Motion is also about sparking surprise and delight. This year, new experiences are designed to make you smile, think, and play. Discover the Bubble Gallery, where gumball machines dispense kids’ artwork and messages. Sit for a tongue-in-cheek sketch at the Quick and Questionable Live Portrait Booth.
Creativity thrives when we play, so jump in: try giant pendulum painting, paint-by-numbers, or build towers with brightly coloured boxes. And if you’re feeling bold, wear a white t-shirt and head to the Color Blast Zone, a joyful mix of water, paint, and pure, messy fun that turns you into the work of art.
Art in Motion 2025 is more than a festival – it’s a living, breathing snapshot of who we aim to be as a community: creative, playful, inclusive, and always in motion.
Visit esplanade.ca for more details on Art in Motion.
Candace Lundrigan is cultural program co-ordinator with the Esplanade Art & Heritage Centre
