Courtesy photo.
VENTURA — The Ventura Art & Chalk Festival, a signature event in Ventura County, returns this September with more than 50 talented chalk artists and craftsmen transforming Ventura Harbor Village with vibrant color along the waterfront. Scheduled for September 14-15 from 10 AM to 5 PM, this year’s festival promises to be a celebration of art, community, and philanthropy.
Festival Highlights
The Ventura Art & Chalk Festival is a family-friendly event that invites visitors to watch as expert chalk artists from across California and beyond create vivid, large-scale murals along a seaside promenade. The chalk art will be sprinkled throughout Ventura Harbor Village, primarily along the walkway from Le Petit Café & Bakery to Island Packers, creating a stunning visual experience for all who attend.
Among the featured artists is Greg Wray, known for his iconic work on the Sonic the Hedgehog video game series. Wray will be crafting a Sonic-themed beach scene, inviting spectators to observe his process and, when appropriate, engage with him during the creation.
Activities & Entertainment
- Craftsman’s Marketplace: Discover and purchase original works from California artists, including paintings, ceramics, photography, glasswork, handmade wooden toys, and wearable art. Vendors will be set up on the pavement between Andria’s Seafood Restaurant and Brophy Bros. Restaurant & Clam Bar.
- Children’s Art Area: Keep an eye out for a dedicated space for children to express their creativity, inspired by the professional artists at the festival.
- Family-Friendly Attractions: Face painting, a variety of unique shops, and dining options at Ventura Harbor Village.
- Live Music: Enjoy live musical performances from 1-4pm, providing a relaxing atmosphere for afternoon festival-goers.
Community Impact
The Ventura Art & Chalk Festival is not just a celebration of art but also a vital fundraiser for local charities. This year, proceeds will go toward supporting free art projects, scholarships, and various charitable organizations within Ventura County. Over the past decade, Ventura County Art Events, Inc. has donated over $50,000 to VC FOOD Share through this festival.
Tribute to Co-Founder Randy Hinton
This year’s festival is dedicated to Randy Hinton, who recently passed away after a brave battle with cancer. Randy was not only a co-founder of the Ventura Art & Chalk Festival but also a passionate supporter of Ventura County’s charities. His legacy lives on through the continued efforts of the Ventura Rotary Club, whose members have stepped up to serve on the newly restructured Ventura County Art Events, Inc. board, ensuring that the festival remains a cherished community event.
“My favorite part of the Art & Chalk Festival are the awe-struck spectators. Nothing is more magical than watching artists create masterpieces, one stroke at a time,” says one of the festivals key organizers, Board Member of Ventura County Art Events, Inc. Valerie Garbe.
Join the Celebration
Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a vibrant community tradition. As Lysa Ashley, a veteran street painter, puts it, “The Ventura festival is probably my favorite! The organizers are tireless and wonderful, and there is always a fun group of artists. It feels like one big happy family.”
Thank You to Our Sponsors
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to our sponsors, whose generous support makes the Ventura Art & Chalk Festival possible: Mathis Wealth Management-premier sponsor, Crowne Plaza Ventura, Rotary Club of Ventura, Tastes & Tales Hospitality Group, Fastsigns, and Ventura County Art Events inc.