The Shops at Yale is thrilled to announce the 6th annual New Haven Chalk Art Festival on Saturday, Oct. 21 from 12-4 p.m. The rain date for this event is Sunday, Oct. 22.
Enjoy a day of art, music, and family entertainment in the heart of Downtown New Haven. Stroll the Chapel and Broadway Districts to view and vote on elaborate fall-inspired chalk art designs made by roughly 65 professional and amateur artists at two locations — Broadway Island, 56 Broadway, and the Yale University Art Gallery patio, 1111 Chapel Street. The event will feature live jazz from local musicians, a strolling magician, craft activities, exclusive shopping & dining offers, and more. This event is free and open to the public, with free parking available at the 150 York Street Garage from 11am-6pm with a validation stamp at The Shops at Yale tent on Broadway Island during the event.
Kids can take part in the fun at the Family Fun Zone, located in the Ezra Stiles College courtyard behind Apple, where they can draw freestyle with free chalk provided by the Broadway Merchants Association and receive free professional drawing lessons from artist Kristy Lankford. Free face painting will also be available in the Family Fun Zone.
New this year, The Shops at Yale has assembled fantastic shopping and dining offers that are redeemable during the event using special vouchers available at The Shops at Yale tables. Offers include up to 25% off at retailers on Chapel Street and Broadway, and a variety of food options for $1.99 each, including a 24oz smoothie, chips & salsa, a slice of pizza, chicken teriyaki, and more!
“I’ve had a great experience with The Shops at Yale’s art events. They are very well organized and a lot of fun!” says Jessica Stephen-Kuser, a local artist who participated in the Music & Murals Series on Broadway Island in August. “As an artist, it feels good to work right out into the community, share the good vibes, and be part of an event that brings people together. I’m excited to see all the creativity at the Chalk Art Festival this October and to have a day making art for everyone to enjoy!” (Jessica created the 2023 event poster.)
Artists interested in participating must register in advance to reserve a space. Age divisions include: Teen (ages 13-17), Adult (ages 18+), or Adult Group (18+ with a minimum of two artists). More than $2,500 in gift cards will be awarded to the top winners. There is no entry fee for the contest. Walk-ups at registration on Broadway Island will be taken on a first-come, first-served basis beginning at 12pm as space allows.
For more information or to register, please visit theshopsatyale.com/chalkart.