With a continued focus on accessibility and inclusivity, the MATI outdoor community block party – connecting its five main stages down Washington Avenue – will be free and bigger than ever in 2026. From 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, July 17 and 18, MATI is activating Grand Center Arts District with live music (including DJ Spinderella), a performance art stage, a roller skating rink, pop-up fashion shows, mural and art exhibits, poetry, local vendors, tastes of St. Louis’ favorite culinary dishes and incentives to visit Midtown’s many bars, restaurants and retailers.
A live music stage at Washington and N Theresa Avenue will feature energetic DJ sets by DJ Spinderella (Salt-N-Pepa), Natasha Diggs, and Nightchaser Presents; and performances by Kendrick Smith Quartet, Pernikoff Brothers, Manos Panamerica, and Paint Louis presents R.O.T.N.
At Washington and N Leonard Avenue, a performance art stage will feature theatrical moments that tell the story of St. Louis as a catalyst city where American popular music is continuously invented, exported, and reimagined. Programming includes the introduction of a new musical adaptation of Betsey Brown, the Ntazoke Shange-penned coming-of-age story set in 1957 St. Louis.
The stage will also feature circus acrobatics and performances by Circus Harmony.
GENT will present short-format fashion shows, transforming the street into a live runway experience. Timed between major main stage performances, these shows will merge fashion, music, and culture in a dynamic, street-level activation. Festival attendees can expect themes around “archive sound” (vintage band and festival wear, developed in partnership with Chunky’s) and “global kits” (inspired by global soccer culture, featuring upcycled jerseys transformed into contemporary looks).
A centerpiece of the festival footprint, a pop-up roller skating rink presented by River City Outdoors will allow attendees to groove and glide on Washington Avenue to a roster of St. Louis’ top DJs, curated by G.Wiz.
Additional MATI block party partners include Frizz Fest, Poetry In Motion, Free4All, The Walls Off Washington, Cinema St. Louis, Audacy, WSIE and Metro Theater.
Visual Art Activations
Surrounded by The Walls off Washington mural walk (open to attendees), families can immerse themselves in both music and art. Canvas for Kids will allow attendees of all ages to participate in the creation of large-scale collaborative murals, turning blank canvas into colorful expressions throughout the weekend. Paint Louis is also bringing back Paint Littles, giving kids a hands-on experience with graffiti.
Also among MATI’s featured visual activations is the ongoing evolution of I Still Love Her, the celebrated mural collaboration by artists BRKLYN and Deonne, located in the KAF Art Yard (3318 Washington). Working alongside curator Kris Blackmon, the artists will continue to activate and expand the project during festival hours, offering attendees an opportunity to witness the living nature of public art while engaging with a work that honors the legacy, influence and cultural impact of women in hip-hop.
Festivalgoers will also have the opportunity to experience Elroy Vision at Legends’ Gallery (3318 Washington), a vibrant exhibition by internationally acclaimed artist Kenny Scharf – known for his iconic visual language, energetic forms and lasting influence on contemporary art and street culture.
Further down Washington Avenue, Double Bloom will be impossible to miss. The large, immersive, 10 ft by 17 ft walk in domes installation by Adrienne Outlaw encourages participation – blending sculpture, environment, and reflection, offering a contemplative space amid the festival’s energy.
Frizzy By Nature’s Blooming Business Market
In partnership with Frizz Fest – Frizzy By Nature’s Blooming Business Market will line Washington Avenue with local small businesses and artisans, featuring handcrafted jewelry, stunning art, unique fashion, beauty essentials, community resources, delicious food, and so much more. Guests will enjoy a dynamic and lively shopping experience, running Friday and Saturday (July 17-18).
Expected market vendors include LacyJean Mobile Cigar Lounge, Oil Bar by Ryze, MADE MOBB, Sarah Lady’s Art, The Good Life Candle Co, Cameogirldesigns, Invision Your Empire, USHA.NGA, With Love Skincare, routed by STL Bucket List, 13th and Canna, Taylor Marrie, Natural Ti’s Products, The Woke Brand, Goddistry, J.R Candle Company, Underground Jewels, Diversity Gallery, and Sapphire Farms and Company.
Attendees can enjoy dishes from food trucks Cajun Seduction, FUFU n’ Sauce, G Burrito, Pure Catering, and Steve’s Hot Dogs; and local bites from Yummy Sweetcakes, Dulce Pops, The Fattened Caf, Sugarfire Smokehouse, Jasmine Brooks, Chef Bailey & Co, Dooney’s, and Straight Down 55 Eats.
Bring the whole family and experience the best the MATI community has to offer!
Photo Credit: Tyler Small
