The Mall Fest 50 Art Parade is coming June 27!
Join Aspen Public Art for a hands-on workshop to create your own costume, mask, or prop for the parade. The theme of the parade is “What do you LOVE about this place?” – a creative invitation to come together and bring joy to the streets.
Artist/educator Reina Katzenberger and her team at The Project Shop will help participants create wearable art to don for the Art Parade. Basic supplies will be provided. Participants are encouraged to bring reclaimed, recycled and/or compostable fabric, materials and ornamentation that they would like to upcycle into their fits and kits.
Workshops are free with registration. Space is limited and early sign-up is encouraged to ensure materials and your spot.
Children 14 and under must be accompanied by an adult 18 years or older. Please see Parade Guidelines below.
-
The Art Parade is open to all. Individuals, families, friend groups, schools, and community groups are invited to participate.
Be inspired by the theme: What do you LOVE about this place?
Create your parade ensemble on your own or at one of our public workshops. Imagination is wildly encouraged — and rewarded during our costume contest! Costumes must be noncommercial.
We encourage everyone to be in costume – including parents and guardians accompanying children.
This is a pedestrian parade; all entries must be people powered. No vehicles, bikes, scooters, one-wheels, or other forms of travel are allowed in the parade other than ADA mobility devices.
No live animals, except service animals.
NOT permitted: throws (e.g. candy or swag), water balloons or spraying, open containers, distribution of leaflets or flyers during the parade or along the parade route.
Children 14 and under must be accompanied by someone over the age of 18.
Register online by Wednesday, June 24, 2026 to ensure your spot in the parade and be eligible for the costume contest and prizes. Walk-ins on Parade Day will be accepted on a space-available basis.
“Through crafting, wearing, dancing and parading in costumes, we build community, discover hidden talents, and bring joy to the streets.”
What is Mall Fest 50?
Mall Fest 50 is a public art celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Aspen Pedestrian Mall.
As innovative as the Mall itself—constructed in 1976, the first car-to-pedestrian transformation in the state and one of the few remaining in the nation—Mall Fest 50 will feature a series of public art experiences across the car-free city park in the summer of 2026. Mall Fest 50 events are free and open to all!
Sign up for other Costume Workshops
Join Aspen Public Art for a hands-on workshop to create your own costume, mask or prop for the parade. Each workshop is designed as an independent session. Attend one, or attend all!
Questions?
Please direct inquiries to Lara Whitley, Program Lead, Aspen Public Art, lara.whitley@aspen.gov.