Chalk Fest 2026

September 26, 2026 · 9 – 2 pm · 10 Block of West 8th Ave

Get ready to bring the sidewalks of Emporia to life with color and creativity! Chalk Fest is back and we can’t wait to see your imagination take shape on the pavement. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or want to have fun with friends and family, this community event is open to all ages and skill levels.

What to Expect:

  • Vibrant chalk art creations on downtown sidewalks
  • Food Trucks & Vendors
  • Family-friendly Activities
  • Featured Artists
  • Art Market
  • A chance to showcase your talent and win fun prizes!

2026 Chalk Fest Underwriter

We are excited for this year’s 2026 Chalk Fest! Register early today to secure your spot and receive a set of pastels the day of the event.

  • Location: 10 Block of West 8th Ave. (Downtown 8th & Commercial St.)
  • Date: September 26, 2026
  • Time: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Who Can Participate? Everyone! Artists, families, kids, and anyone who loves to create.

Important Dates/Information:
  • Early Registration $30.00 July 20th – September 12th, discount price & receives a pack of pastels
  • Regular registration – $35.00 September 13th – 25th
  • Walk-up spaces – available if we have space but at a smaller section than those who register.
  • Art Market Registration Deadline – September 12th

Want to be part of the fun – sign up now!

Art Market

11:00 – 2:00 pm · 10 Block of West 8th Ave

Artists! We are bringing the Art Market back for the second year!

Reserve a booth for just $10 and keep 100% of your sales as people explore the amazing chalk art.

Registration Deadline to be a part of the Art Market is September 12th.

Chalk Fest Schedule of Events

September 26, 2026 · 10 Block of West 8th Ave

9:00 – 2:00 PM – Chalk Fest

  • 8:30 AM – Registration opens
  • 9:00 AM – Chalk Fest officially begins
  • 11:00 AM – Food Trucks, Kids Zone & Art Market
  • 1:00 PM – Cut off for walk ups
  • 2:00 PM – Chalking ends
  • 2:00 PM – Presentation of awards, will be on Facebook Live

Stroll through the finished chalk art, enjoy the Kids Zone, grab a drink from the Granada Theatre, have lunch at the food trucks, and explore local art!

2026 Featured Chalk Artist, Amy Lynn

A Kansas City–based chalk and paint illustrator who discovered her passion for art just five years ago while experimenting with bakery signs. What started as a creative outlet quickly grew into a career she truly loves.

Today, she creates colorful, whimsical chalk and painted illustrations for businesses and events throughout the Kansas City metro area. Many of these pieces are later transformed into greeting cards and prints, which she currently sell online.

Website: www.amylynnstudios.net

Instagram: @amylynnillustrations

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmylynnStudio

2026 Featured Chalk Artist, Hannah Worthen

A wife, mother, animal lover, coffee addict, thrifting obsessed, visual artist based in Emporia, Kansas. Her work is inspired by animals, Kansas wildflowers, food, bold colors, upcycling, and the beauty of everyday family life. Influenced by the landscapes of Kansas and the small details in nature that often go unnoticed.

Enjoys bringing animals to life through expressive forms and vibrant color, while also incorporating natural elements, food themes, and repurposed materials into her work. Upcycling plays an important role in the process, allowing her to transform discarded or overlooked materials into something meaningful and new.

Through my art, she aims to celebrate color, character, and connection—inviting viewers to appreciate the beauty in both nature and everyday life.

Instagram: @worthens.works.of.art

Suggested Supplies to Bring

  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
  • Gloves to protect your hands
  • Plenty of water
  • Knee Pad, fabric/towel, cardboard, or carpet to sit or kneel
  • Small broom or brush to clean your space
  • Blending tools: rag, foam, chalk eraser, brush
  • Water and a sponge for cleanup
  • Extra towels or rags
  • Extra chalk (especially if you need a lot of certain colors)

Helpful Tips for Participants

Sun Protection: It gets hot! Wear sunscreen, bring shade, and stay hydrated.
Start with an Outline: Sketch the whole design first, then fill in with color.
Check Your Work: Step back often to see your art from a distance.
Protect Your Hands: Use gloves or tools like erasers and brushes to blend instead of fingers.

🎨 Chalk Fest Rules

Eligibility & Check-In:

  1. Age Requirement: Participants must be 12 or older to enter individually.
    Children 11 & under may participate in the Children’s Chalk Fest or a group space but must be supervised by a parent or guardian.
  2. Check-In Time: Check in by 10:00 AM or your space may be reassigned.
    No refunds or holds for late arrivals.
  3. Weather Plan: If it rains, the event will move indoors. Watch for announcements.

Artwork & Materials:

  1. Art Type: You may create original work or a reproduction.
    Reproductions must include the original artist’s name and artwork title, displayed next to your piece.
  2. Family-Friendly Content: All art must be suitable for public viewing.
    No nudity, political or religious messaging, inappropriate content, or advertising.
    The Emporia Arts Center has final say on what is appropriate.
  3. *Chalk Provided: Artists receive a 72-pack of soft pastels – if you register early!
    You may bring more soft chalk if you need extra colors. Communal chalk is limited and first come, first served. Participants that registered after early registration will have use of the communal chalk.
  4. Approved Materials Only:
    • Only soft, non-oil-based chalks/pastels are allowed.
    • No oil pastels, glitter, fixatives, spray chalk, paint, crayon, ink, or permanent materials.
    • All chalk must be water-based and applied by hand.
  5. No Stencils: All art must be freehand.

Space & Equipment:

  1. Chalk Spaces: Your drawing will be done in a pre-marked rectangle.
    Space is assigned at check-in by staff.
  2. Drawing Surfaces: All art must stay within your marked area.
    No chalk on walls, steps, or any vertical surfaces.
  3. Tents & Awnings: Allowed but must not block other artists or the public’s view.
    Tents must be weighed down in case of wind. Staff may ask you to adjust or remove them.
  4. Judging Deadline: Art must be completed by 1:30 PM on Saturday to be eligible for judging.

Behavior & Etiquette:

  1. Respect Others:
    • Do not step on others’ artwork.
    • Keep drinks secured to prevent spills.
    • Keep your supplies contained in your space.
    • Share or trade chalk when possible.
  2. Music: Personal music is fine with headphones. No loud music or speakers. Live music will be provided.
  3. Dress Code: Wear appropriate, family-friendly clothing.

Festival Experience:

    1. Photos & Promotion: The Emporia Arts Center may use photos of your work for promotional purposes.
    2. Engage the Public: Onlookers are an important part of the event—feel free to chat with them when you can.
    3. Sponsor Recognition: A sponsor’s name may appear near your space. Please keep it clean and visible. You’re welcome to draw a frame around it or incorporate it into your design. If you’re introduced to a sponsor, please thank them for their support.