MassArt Night Market Returns to Downtown Crossing with Local Art, Live Demonstrations, and Creative Entrepreneurs
- Campus News
- Press Release
- Business of Creative Industries
BOSTON — Massachusetts College of Art and Design (MassArt) will once again bring Downtown Crossing to life with the MassArt Night Market on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 5–9 pm, inviting the public to discover original artwork, meet local makers, and experience the energy of Boston’s creative community.
Presented in partnership with the Downtown Boston Alliance, the free outdoor event features more than 100 MassArt students and alumni offering an eclectic selection of original artwork, fashion, jewelry, ceramics, prints, home goods, and handcrafted products. Visitors will have the opportunity to purchase directly from artists and designers while learning about the ideas, artistry, and enterprising drive behind their work.
In addition to shopping, guests can participate in hands-on creative activities and enjoy music throughout the evening, making the Night Market a lively destination for art lovers, families, and anyone looking to support local artists.
“The MassArt Night Market celebrates what makes our community so distinctive: the creativity, talent, and entrepreneurial spirit of our students and alumni,” said MassArt President Mary K. Grant. “This event creates opportunities for our students and graduates to share their work, build their businesses, and elevate the essential role the arts play in strengthening our communities and economy.”
“Bringing more than 100 MassArt artists and entrepreneurs into Downtown Crossing gives people another reason to spend time here, while supporting the vibrant evening activity already happening Downtown and offering talented local artists a chance to get their work in front of thousands,” said Michael Nichols, President of the Downtown Boston Alliance. “We’re so excited to have the Night Market back.”
Highlights include:
- Artist Marketplace: Purchase original artwork, clothing, jewelry, ceramics, prints, and handmade goods from more than 100 MassArt students and alumni
- Creative Demonstrations: Try your hand at screen printing a tote bag, hand felting, DIY flipbooks, and even sound mixing
- Live Caricatures: Have your caricature drawn live by a MassArt student
“The MassArt Night Market gives our students and alumni the opportunity to connect directly with the public while building the skills and confidence that come from running a creative business,” said Sara Hartmann, Program Director of Creative Entrepreneurship at MassArt. “It’s exciting to see artists share their work, tell their stories, and become part of Boston’s vibrant community of creative entrepreneurs.”
MassArt prepares artists and designers for successful creative careers. Last year the College launched the Business of Creative Industries minor, a 15-credit interdisciplinary program that equips students with skills in entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, and business strategy. Led by Hartmann, the program combines classroom learning and professional support from faculty, industry professionals, and more than 50 visiting creative entrepreneurs each year.
Admission to the MassArt Night Market is free and open to the public, but advance registration is encouraged through Eventbrite. The market will take place on Summer Street Plaza and on Washington Street between Summer Street and Bromfeild Street. In the event of rain, the Night Market will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026.
For more information about the Business of Creative Industries program, visit www.massart.edu/business.
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About Massachusetts College of Art and Design
The only independent public college of art and design in the country, MassArt was founded in 1873 in response to a bold idea: art and design are essential to our daily lives, and key to improving our society and economy. What began as a school to teach drawing is today a vibrant, comprehensive art and design institution that spans 18 undergraduate and nine graduate programs, certificates, continuing education, and post-baccalaureate study. For more information, visit massart.edu.
About the Downtown Boston Alliance
The Downtown Boston Alliance (DBA), formerly known as the Downtown Boston Business Improvement District, was created by property owners committed to achieving the district’s full potential as a premier and vibrant destination. Our mission is to significantly improve the experience of all who live, work, visit, go to school, or shop in the 34-block, 100-acre DBA service area by providing supplemental services to keep the district clean, safe, and vibrant while catalyzing an energetic and thriving business climate and serving as the neighborhood’s voice and advocate.
Media Contact
Temple Gill
Massachusetts College of Art and Design
tgill@massart.edu
617-879-7068
