Paint the Plaza
Downtown San Luis Obispo Chalk Festival
Saturday, September 19, 2026 | 11 AM–5 PM | Mission Plaza, Downtown San Luis Obispo
Downtown SLO’s inaugural Paint the Plaza event invites local artists, schools, families, and businesses to transform Mission Plaza into a vibrant and colorful artwork space for the community to enjoy! This inclusive community-centered chalk art festival will celebrate and showcase the vibrant arts community of the Central Coast.
This event is brought to you by Friends of Downtown SLO, Guzman Construction Group, and Art Central.
Featuring Over 40 Artists
Watch Mission Plaza transform into a vibrant canvas through the day! Artists will be creating their works through the event on Saturday, September 19. Artwork will be available for public viewing through Sunday, September 20.
Purchase a Mini Square
Mini Squares are available for on-site purchase in Mission Plaza from 11am - 5pm.
Perfect for children or community members who don't want to commit to a large piece — purchase a 3x3' mini square for $25! Mini squares will be located on Broad Street adjacent to Mission Plaza (by the SLO History Center!).
*Please note that mini squares will not be labeled with sponsor names!
Music and Vendors!
Savor tasty treats from Lil Lasso Shaved Ice and The Gloomy Cottage caramel apples, and support local arts with Hippy Hands Henna, Just Looking Gallery, and live watercolor portraits from Kyle Krausopf!
Live Music:
Plaza Steps | 12:00 - 4:00pm | Kentucky Monk
Broad Street | 11:00 - 1:30pm | Ayanna
Broad Street | 2:30 - 5:00pm | Jamie Pennelly
Want to sponsor events like this one on a larger scale and get amazing marketing benefits? See our 2026 Sponsorship Opportunities.