On Saturday, August 17, 2024, we are transforming our neighbourhood into a colourful sidewalk art gallery with our second installment of Glenelm ChalkFest!
We invite you to go all out in chalking the sidewalk in front of your home with whatever cool and colourful designs you can dream up! Free chalk is available for anyone who needs or wants some.
It’s a summer celebration of chalk, colour and community. Check out last year’s chalk creations here.
How do I participate?
- Complete this quick form here to let us your address and if you would like some chalk.
- Give your sidewalk a quick sweep, then use chalk to bring it to life! You can create your masterpiece any time, but we’ll be publishing a map of all registered locations and taking photos the afternoon of Saturday, August 17th, so we encourage you to create your chalk art as close to then as possible.
- Go for a walk and enjoy the art! We will be creating a map of all the registered addresses. That evening is Meandering Music, so all the chalk will be appreciated and admired!
Does it cost anything to participate?
Not at all. We are providing 12-packs of sidewalk chalk to anyone who needs some. If you already have chalk, we invite you to use it, freeing up resources for folks who don’t have any.
Is this event a competition?
Nope! There is no judging or critiquing. It’s open to people of all ages and abilities in Glenelm.
Where did this idea come from?
We wanted to do something accessible and artistic that people can do on their own time — kind of like the Snow Sculpture Challenge, only in the summer!
Can I use other art materials?
For sure. But since sidewalks are public property, please use only temporary, washable art materials like chalk, charcoal, or soft pastels (do not use oil pastels, which will not wash away).
What if it rains?
If it rains on August 17, we’ll reschedule the event to the following Saturday, August 25th. Changes will be communicated here, via the Glenelm email newsletter, etc.
I don’t know where to start…I need inspiration and tips!
We have lots for you:
- Video of 3 easy ways to use water with chalk: Sidewalk Chalk Techniques
- For folks who hate the feeling of chalk: wet sidewalk chalk art ideas
- Painter’s tape “stained glass” mosaic
- Tips on choosing supplies, how to get really vibrant colours, and using a grid: Tips for Summertime Sidewalk Chalk Art & Street Painting
- Interactive, educational & enjoyable chalk designs and games: 50 must-try chalk art ideas for kids
- Search Google or YouTube for 3D chalk art ideas and tutorials
- Want to see photos from last year’s ChalkFest? Check out our recap page.