Saturday, September 13th 9am-Noon

Let your inner artist escape on the sidewalks in Uptown Shelby as the Cleveland County Arts Council presents Chalk Fest, a fun, family friendly, sidewalk chalk competition on the Court Square, around the Earl Scruggs Center, Saturday, Sept. 13, 9am - noon.  Children through adults, groups and individuals are invited to sign up for an individual square on which to create artwork during Chalk Fest.

Judging will begin at noon with the winners announced when judging is completed.  Prizes are $125 for best in the Group category (two or more people), $100 for Adult (age 18+), $50 cash prize for best in Youth category (age 11 – 17) and $25 for best in the children’s division (age 10 and under).  

There will also be plenty of “free space” for those who wish to participate without competing.  The public is invited to watch the artists as the sidewalk masterpieces are created or to enjoy them later in the day.

Pre-registration is suggested to ensure your space; registration the day of the event will take place at 8:30 am on the Warren Street side of the Earl Scruggs Center.  The registration fee is $5 for individuals and $10 for groups and includes a box of chalk.  Additional chalk can be purchased during the event.

Chalk Fest is brought to you by the Cleveland County Arts Council and is sponsored by Cleveland Animal Hospital. 

We will also be joined by local favorite food truck Sunset Slush serving their classic Italian ice!

In the event of inclement weather an announcement will be made by Friday, Sept. 13, on the Arts Council’s Facebook page. 

Street art is thought to have originated in Italy in the 16th century.  Originally, the artwork was of a religious nature, therefore the artists were called “Madonnari”.  Vagabond artists would travel throughout Italy between festivals, living solely on the coins tossed onto or next to their drawings as homage to the Madonna or possibly to their abilities.  For centuries, the Madonnari were true folk artists, but suffered a decline after World War II.  

For information about the chalk fest and to register, you have multiple options:

(1) Fill out the online registration form here

(2) Use the PayPal button below

(3) Call the Arts Council at 704-484-2787

(4) Visit us at 111 S Washingston St, Shelby, NC

(5) Navigate to our Facebook page.