The Ripley County Community Foundation, through its Ripley Youth Outreach program, is excited to announce the return of its chalk art competition, Chalktoberfest. Artists of all skill levels are invited to participate in the 2026 Chalktoberfest chalk art competition on Saturday, September 19, 2026, in downtown Osgood. Held in conjunction with Bricktoberfest, this event will transform Walnut Street into an outdoor gallery of colorful chalk murals inspired by this year’s theme, America’s 250th.
What is Chalktoberfest?
Launched in 2020, Chalktoberfest was created to encourage creative expression and celebrate the artistic talents of local students. Over the years, the event has grown to include adults and has become a fun community tradition, drawing spectators and participants alike to enjoy a morning of local artistic talent.
This year, artists will compete in three divisions:
- Junior High Division: Grades 6-8
- High School Division: Grades 9-12
- Adult Division: Ages 18+
Registration is now open and is limited to 20 participants. Organizers encourage interested artists to register early to secure a spot.
This year’s competition features significantly increased prize money, reflecting the growing popularity and support of the program.
2026 Prize Awards (per division)
- 1st Place: $225
- 2nd Place: $150
- 3rd Place: $75
Each contestant will receive a box of 48 Gallery or Koss Artists Soft Pastels Chalk and a designated 4-foot by 5-foot mural space on Walnut Street pavement. Artists are encouraged to pre-plan their designs before arriving. Competition rules allow one artist per mural and require artists to use only washable chalk.
The Event Schedule:
- 10:30 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. Check-In
- 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. Chalk Art Competition
- 2:30 p.m. Winners Announced
In addition to the competition, Chalktoberfest will offer a new opportunity for community participation. Spectators can help create a community chalk mural designed in a paint-by-number style by local muralist and artist Andrea Grimsley. The interactive project is intended to make artistic expression accessible to everyone, regardless of experience level.
“We want Chalktoberfest to celebrate creativity at every level.” said Amy Streator, Executive Director of the Ripley County Community Foundation. “Whether you are an experienced artist competing for prizes or someone who simply wants to contribute a few colorful sections to our community mural, this event offers a fun and welcoming way to be part of the arts. We are especially excited to see how participants interpret America’s 250th anniversary while showcasing the incredible talent that exists throughout our community.”
The Ripley County Community Foundation hopes this event will encourage emerging and established artists alike to participate and share their creativity with the public. Spectators are welcome throughout the day to observe the artists at work, enjoy Bricktoberfest activities, and contribute to the community mural.
For more information and to register, please visit https://rccfonline.org/impact/initiatives/ripley-youth-outreach/. This event is weather permitting. If conditions require cancellation, registered participants will be notified no later than 6:30 a.m. on September 19.
