The Chilliwack Mural Festival has put out the call for muralists and musicians for 2026.
“We’re thrilled to open applications for the 2026 Chilliwack Mural Festival and to see interest from artists and musicians working at every scale,” said Lise Oakley, executive director of the Chilliwack Arts Council.
“The festival continues to grow in both reach and ambition, and we look forward to receiving applications from artists of the Fraser Valley, across the country, and internationally.”
Every year several Chilliwack sites are chosen to be graced with a mural ahead of the three-day festival.
The Chilliwack Mural Festival is presented by the Chilliwack Arts Council.
The annual festival brings together large-scale public art, live music, and community programming, transforming the downtown core into “an open-air celebration” of creativity and culture.
“At its core, the Chilliwack Mural Festival is about storytelling in public space. Murals become markers of place and lived experience, while live music and performance brings people together in the streets to share those moments in real time. The festival invites artists and musicians to help shape how Chilliwack sees itself.”
Muralist applications are open from Jan. 6 to Jan. 27, while musician applications are open until Jan. 31, and festival organizers are using this tagline: “Express yourself on the walls of Chilliwack.”
The team of curators will choose muralists based on the “specific needs of each site” informed by community input, research, and conversations about cultural representation, local history, storytelling, and artistic style.
Curators go through hundreds or even thousands of submissions depending on the year. They hone in on the quality of the artist’s work, their experience with large- to mid-scale projects, as well as design and composition skills.
Due to the high volume of submissions, only successful applicants will be contacted, they say.
Artists with mural experience are encouraged to submit links to their work and fill out the application form for consideration: chilliwackmuralfestival.com/muralist-application
The application deadline is Jan. 27, 2026.
“The festival is also seeking professional musicians performing original music to be featured as part of the 2026 live music program.”
They’re looking for artists who:
• Perform original music with strong songwriting and technical skill
• Bring energy and presence to live performances
• Connect with audiences and fit the festival atmosphere
• Are professional and prepared for a live festival environment
• Contribute to a diverse range of genres and voices
Musician application deadline: Jan. 31 and musicians can apply here.
Selection Timeline: March 15, 2026
Festival & Performance Dates: August 14–16, 2026