Downtown SLO is excited to announce the inaugural Paint the Plaza Chalk Festival taking place on Saturday, September 19, 2026. This inclusive community-centered chalk art festival is a celebration that will showcase the vibrant artist community that runs deep on the Central Coast, bringing together professional artists, local businesses, and families in the heart of downtown San Luis Obispo.
This inclusive community-centered chalk art festival will celebrate and showcase the vibrant arts community of the Central Coast. The public is invited to spend the day downtown and watch as Mission Plaza is transformed into a chalk art canvas.
Event Details
Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
(Chalk artwork will remain in Mission Plaza through Sunday, September 20)
Time: 11 a.m.–5 p.m.
Location: Mission Plaza, Downtown San Luis Obispo, and Broad Street dogleg (between Monterey & Palm)
Registration Information
Registration is open for those interested in sponsoring a square or applying as an artist.
Sponsored Squares
There are two sponsored square sizes: large squares (6×6′) available for $500, and medium rectangles (4×5′) available for $250. Sponsored squares will be located in Mission Plaza in front of the Mission, under the pergola, and on the walkway to Broad Street. Sponsored squares will have printed labels with the sponsor’s name across the top. Sponsors who aren’t artists will be paired with a local artist who handles all the painting: no artistic talent required! Local artists are also welcome to sponsor their own square
and create the artwork themselves. Local organizations, businesses, schools, and families are encouraged to sponsor squares. More information on purchasing a sponsored square can be found here.
Artist Applications
Local artists are invited to apply to help Paint the Plaza! Artists will be paired with a sponsor to create works of art on the sidewalk in Mission Plaza. Information and the form to apply can be found here.
Mini Squares
Mini squares (3×3′) are available for $25 each and will be located on the Broad Street dogleg, between Monterey & Palm. Unlike sponsored squares, mini squares are unlabeled, purchasers simply show up and get creative! They’re ideal for kids, families, and community members who want to get in on the fun without committing to a larger piece. More information and the form to purchase a mini square can be found here.
Sponsors & Partners
Proceeds from Paint the Plaza will support Downtown SLO, a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization whose mission is to foster an economically vibrant downtown. Downtown SLO is dedicated to supporting local businesses in the heart of our region by organizing free, inclusive community events, advocating on behalf of downtown businesses, operating a Clean & Safe program, and marketing the downtown area.
Those interested in sponsoring or partnering on Paint the Plaza should reach out to [email protected].
Volunteer Information
Downtown SLO is looking for volunteers to help map squares, work the registration booth, and act as floaters at the event. Those interested can fill out the form here to receive more information as the date approaches.