Village Arts Day

June 27, 2026

11:00am ~ 4:00pm

Village Arts Day returns as one of the most joyful traditions of the Gloucester Arts Festival, and this year, the celebration will take place at Main Street Center.

This free, family-friendly celebration transforms Main Street Center into a vibrant hub of creativity, featuring the VMFA Art Mobile, the Chrysler Museum Glass Studio, chalk art, and more. Begin at Courthouse Circle with a guided Sculpture Walk that concludes near Main Street Center, then enjoy Village Arts Day’s live demonstrations, interactive experiences, and hands-on children’s activities — all set within a festive atmosphere that sparks curiosity and celebrates community.

Just the Facts!

11am - 4pm ~ Village Arts Day

Location: Main Street Center

VMFA Art Mobile

Chrysler Museum Glass Blowing Studio

Food Truck

10am - Guided Sculpture Tour - Meet at Courthouse Circle

Start with the Sculpture Walk

Get a Guided Tour of the 2026 Seward Johnson Sculptures
Begins at Courthouse Circle
10am

Join us for a guided walk through Gloucester's 2026 Seward Johnson Sculpture Exhibition, A Piece of Americana: America at 250. Beginning at Courthouse Circle, this free walking tour explores seven larger-than-life sculptures that celebrate iconic moments, people, and images from American history and culture.

Along the way, discover Johnson's remarkable recreations of beloved works such as American Gothic, the famous V-J Day kiss in Times Square, Rosie the Riveter, Albert Einstein on his bicycle, Marilyn Monroe, and more. Learn the stories behind each piece, the artistic vision of renowned sculptor Seward Johnson, and how these familiar images have become part of our shared American experience.

The walk concludes at Main Street Center and is the perfect way to experience public art, history, and community in the heart of Gloucester.

Chrysler Glass Studio Mobile Unit
Main Street Center
11am – 4pm

The Chrysler Museum of Art Glass Studio Mobile Unit brings the drama of hot glass directly to Main Street Center. Watch master glass artists gather molten glass from the furnace, shape it with breath and fire, and transform it into luminous works of art before your eyes. This rare, up-close experience reveals both the technical precision and artistry behind glassmaking — an unforgettable highlight of Village Arts Day.

Live Fire & Form

VMFA Artmobile
11am - 4pm

Experience the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts in Gloucester through VMFA on the Road, a state-of-the-art Artmobile that brings hands-on art experiences directly to communities across Virginia. Step inside this mobile museum and explore interactive activities designed to spark creativity and engage visitors of all ages.

Whether you're creating your own masterpiece, discovering new artistic techniques, or simply exploring the exhibits, the Artmobile offers a fun and inspiring introduction to the world of art. This free experience is perfect for families and aspiring artists and reflects VMFA's long-standing commitment to making art accessible throughout the Commonwealth.

Art on the Move

Create, Color & Celebrate

Hands-On Creativity for All Ages

11am - 4pm

Village Arts Day invites visitors of all ages to roll up their sleeves and get creative. Young artists can enjoy hands-on art activities while colorful sidewalk chalk transforms Main Street Center into a vibrant community gallery.

Explore interactive experiences, watch creativity unfold around you, enjoy live music throughout the afternoon, and grab a bite from a local food truck. Whether you're making art or simply taking it all in, Village Arts Day offers a fun and welcoming celebration of creativity, community, and the arts.

Live Music with Shane Norris

1pm - 3pm

Enjoy live music from Shane Norris from 1:00–3:00 PM during Village Arts Day. A talented local musician and vocalist, Shane performs a crowd-pleasing mix of classic rock, country favorites, and familiar hits that audiences of all ages can enjoy. Currently pursuing a degree in Music Business through Berklee College of Music, Shane has become a familiar face on stages throughout the region and is known for his engaging performances and wide-ranging musical style. Stop by the Main Street Center, relax, and enjoy an afternoon of great music as part of this free community celebration.

A Final Look at Heart of the River

Before the collection returns to private homes, this is a special opportunity to visit the Fine Arts Museum of Gloucester and experience the full Heart of the River exhibition — a powerful reflection of the artists, collectors, and moments that define the festival.