The Festival of Banners is one of Art Reach’s signature programs, transforming the region into a vibrant outdoor gallery each year. This cherished tradition invites artists of all ages and skill levels to create hand-painted vinyl banners, which are displayed on light poles throughout the community. From Shepherd and Union Township to the CMU Campus Connection, McLaren Central Michigan campus, Fancher Elementary, and downtown Mt. Pleasant, these banners bring art to unexpected places and showcase the rich diversity of creativity in our region.

Each banner tells a unique story, reflecting the artist’s perspective and the power of art to connect and inspire. Participants under 18 and over 65 are invited to paint for free, while others contribute a modest fee to cover supplies, making the program accessible to all. The Festival is a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and community spirit.

Art Reach also produces a commemorative booklet featuring each banner alongside the names of our generous sponsors. These booklets serve as a tribute to the event’s impact and the people who make it possible.

Get Involved

The Festival of Banners invites everyone to participate, whether you’re an experienced artist or a first-time painter. This is your chance to contribute to a beloved community tradition and leave your mark on our shared outdoor gallery.

Looking Ahead

The theme for this year’s Festival of Banners is “Dreamscapes,” an exploration of imagined worlds and creative possibility. Artists are encouraged to draw inspiration from dreams, inner landscapes, and scenes beyond reality, whether peaceful, surreal, abstract, or entirely their own.