(Osgood, IN) — Downtown Osgood will become a canvas again next month when Chalktoberfest returns to Walnut Street.
The Ripley County Community Foundation, through its Ripley Youth Outreach program, will host the 2026 chalk art competition Saturday, September 19, in conjunction with Bricktoberfest. Artists of all skill levels are invited to create murals inspired by this year’s theme, “America’s 250th.”
CHALKTOBERFEST AT A GLANCE
Where: Walnut Street, downtown Osgood
When: Saturday, September 19
Competition: 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Winners announced: 2:30 p.m.
Divisions: Junior high, high school and adult
More money on the line
This year’s competition will feature increased prize money in all three divisions.
First-place winners will receive $225, second place will earn $150 and third place will receive $75. Competition divisions are junior high for grades six through eight, high school for grades nine through 12 and adult for participants age 18 and older.
Registration is limited to 20 participants, and organizers are encouraging artists to sign up early.
Each contestant will receive a box of 48 Gallery or Koss Artists Soft Pastels Chalk and a designated four-foot-by-five-foot section of Walnut Street pavement. Artists are encouraged to plan their designs ahead of time. Only one artist is permitted per mural, and washable chalk is required.
From student event to community tradition
Chalktoberfest began in 2020 as a way to encourage creative expression and showcase the artistic talents of local students. It has since expanded to include adults and has grown into a community event attracting participants and spectators alike.
Check-in will take place from 10:30 to 11 a.m. The competition will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with winners announced at 2:30 p.m.
A mural everyone can help create
For the first time, spectators will have their own chance to pick up chalk and add to the artwork.
Visitors can help complete a community chalk mural designed in a paint-by-number style by local muralist and artist Andrea Grimsley. Organizers say the interactive project is intended to make participation possible for people regardless of artistic experience.
“We want Chalktoberfest to celebrate creativity at every level.”
Streator said the event gives experienced artists a chance to compete while also providing a welcoming way for others to contribute to the community mural. She said organizers are especially looking forward to seeing how artists interpret America’s 250th anniversary.
Spectators welcome
The public is invited to watch artists work throughout the day, enjoy Bricktoberfest activities and contribute to the community mural.
Registration and additional information are available through the Ripley County Community Foundation website.
The event is weather permitting. If conditions force a cancellation, registered participants will be notified no later than 6:30 a.m. September 19.
