17th annual Chalk the Block returns this weekend

EL PASO, Texas ( KTSM ) – The community is invited to experience the 17th annual Chalk the Block this weekend in the Downtown Arts District, the City of El Paso announced in a news release.

The three-day festival hours are as follows:

• Friday, Oct. 11: Preview night | 6 p.m. – 10 p.m.
• Saturday, Oct. 12: Main event | 10 a.m. – 10 p.m.
• Sunday, Oct. 13: Family Day | 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The City said the event will feature chalk artists, muralists, musicians, artisan vendors, and interactive installations. Large-scale artworks and live performances by internationally recognized artists will also be a highlight.

“Chalk the Block showcases the beauty and diversity of El Paso’s artistic community,” Raiz FCU vice president of marketing Alejandro Yu said. “We are honored to be a part of an event that brings people together, inspires creativity, and provides a weekend of joy for all ages.”

The festival highlights include the following, according to the City:

• Juried chalk art competition – Pedestrian Pathway.
• Paradox art mural walk: Curated by Laura Turón and featuring muralists from the Paso del Norte region – Pedestrian Pathway.
• Brouhaha: An immersive outdoor performance by Squonk (Pittsburgh, PA) – El Paso Street.
• El Paso icons: – a cityscape in play: Giant ground inflatables of local landmarks by Ghost Fox Toys (El Paso, TX) – Various locations.
• Rack of lights: A structural art installation with sound-responsive lighting by Serjirism (El Paso/Juarez) – Arts Festival Plaza.
• Artisan market: Over 80 vendors offering handmade goods and food trucks – Franklin Street.
• Live music: Curated by PLUSH, featuring headliner Estereomance – Franklin Street and Pedestrian Pathway.

In addition, the El Paso Museum of Art and the El Paso Museum of History will host a variety of interactive activities throughout the weekend.

The El Paso Museum of Archaeology will join in on Saturday, Oct. 12 at the Museum of History.

La Nube STEAM Discovery Center will also participate for the first time, with ticketed entry available during the festival, according to the City.

The City said this year the festival will introduce sensory-friendly festival experiences.

From 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 13 visitors can enjoy reserved spots for all-abilities activities designed to accommodate lower-sensory needs. To RSVP for these activities, visit www.ChalkTheBlock.com/Sensory-Friendly.php .

For more information on Chalk the Block and a full schedule of events, visit here .

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