El Paso, TX – The beloved Chalk the Block festival is back for its 19th year, lighting up the Downtown Arts District this weekend. The free, two‑day event runs Saturday, October 3, and Sunday, October 4, and promises a vibrant mix of visual art, music, family activities and local commerce.
Artists, Competition and Interactive Art
More than 200 talented artists will fill the streets with colorful chalk creations, ranging from intricate portraits to bold abstract designs. A juried chalk art competition will spotlight the most skilled participants, with judges drawn from the local arts community. Visitors can also join a community chalking area, where anyone—young or old—can pick up a piece of chalk and add their own touch to the evolving canvas.
Live Entertainment and Family Activities
Live music stages will feature local bands and performers, providing a lively soundtrack to the visual feast. Families will find plenty of hands‑on activities, including craft stations, face painting and a special sensory‑friendly morning program designed for children who benefit from a quieter environment.
Outdoor Film Screening
As the sun sets, the festival will host a free outdoor screening of the beloved animated classic “Fantastic Mr. Fox.” Attendees can bring blankets or lawn chairs and enjoy the film under the stars, adding a cozy, community‑focused finale to the day’s festivities.
Supporting Local Vendors
A bustling marketplace will showcase a variety of local vendors, offering everything from handmade jewelry and artwork to food trucks serving regional favorites. This marketplace not only gives artists and entrepreneurs a platform to sell their wares, but also reinforces the festival’s mission to boost the downtown economy.
Raiz Federal Credit Union’s Role
Celebrating its 90th anniversary, Raiz Federal Credit Union serves as the presenting sponsor for this year’s festival. In addition to financial support, the credit union will host interactive experiences that highlight its commitment to the community, reinforcing the partnership between local businesses and cultural events.
How to Attend
The festival is open to the public and free of charge. For detailed schedules, vendor lists and parking information, visitors should consult the official website at www.ChalkTheBlock.com. The event encourages attendees to arrive early to secure a good viewing spot, especially for the film screening and popular art installations.
Chalk the Block continues to be a highlight of El Paso’s cultural calendar, drawing residents and visitors alike to celebrate creativity, community spirit and the vibrant arts scene that defines the Downtown Arts District.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
