Step in the Arena for beginners

On June 15 and 16, you can Step in the Arena for the last time at the Eindhoven festival for graffiti lovers. During this weekend, artists from around the world will be showing their skills on the city's biggest canvas: the Berenkuil. But that's not all there is too see and do. No idea where to start? Check out our tips!

What is Step in the Arena?

The sun is shining, the sky is blue, and more than 150 graffiti artists from all over the world travel to Eindhoven to give De Berenkuil, Europe's largest 'Hall of Fame,' a new layer. Fun fact: in recent years, they've used no less than 17,500 spray cans and more than 3,000 liters of latex. They do this during the Step in the Arena graffiti festival. The festival starts with some prep work: painting all walls black to get a blank canvas, creating space for all kinds of graffiti—from photorealism to postmodern.

Where does it take place?

This unique spot at Insulindelaan called the Berenkuil (Dutch for ‘the Bear Pit’) is home to Step in the Arena. Bring your friends and family, enjoy food and drinks, and see how artworks slowly come to life. From graphic designs and colorful letters to photo-realistic portraits and cartoon characters. In other words: get ready to have your mind blown!

Why should you go?

Have you ever delved into the history of latex, stickers, and graffiti? In the 1980s, Eindhoven played a prominent role. Our city has been (and still is) a canvas for artists from all over the world. It's no surprise that Step in the Arena gained popularity right here. And since this is the very last edition(!), you can't miss it.

What else is there to experience?

What do they always say? Quit while you're ahead! We're a bit sad about it, but with 15 years on the clock, there is fortunately plenty to look back on. From June 15 to July 6, you can learn all about the local graffiti scene with the help of 'Step in the Arena: 15 years of paint.' An exhibition at KEVN on how graffiti in Eindhoven has gone from underground and illegal to colorful and an indispensable part of the cityscape.