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Downtown SLO’s Inaugural Paint the Plaza Chalk Festival to Feature over 40 Artists

Mission Plaza will be transformed into a vibrant, colorful art space for the community to enjoy.

Downtown SLO and The Friends of Downtown SLO are excited to announce the artists featured in 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 event will feature over 40 artist and sponsored square pairings, and chalk art will remain for public viewing through the weekend. 

The public is invited to spend the day downtown and watch as Mission Plaza is transformed into a chalk art canvas, and encouraged to participate through creating their own community square artwork. 

Event Details

Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
(Chalk artwork will remain in Mission Plaza through Sunday, September 20)

Time: 11 AM–5 PM

Location: Mission Plaza, Downtown San Luis Obispo, and Broad Street dogleg (between Monterey & Palm)

Square Sponsors + Artist Pairings

Sponsors & Partners

Downtown SLO wants to thank all of the sponsors and partners who make this event possible.

Entertainment 

Mission Steps 

  • Kentucky Monk | 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Broad St.  

Food & Drink

Attendees are encouraged to wander, shop, and dine with local downtown businesses while the artwork comes to life! Outside food and non-alcoholic drinks are permitted in Mission Plaza through the day. Paint the Plaza vendors include Lil’ Lasso Shaved Ice gourmet shaved ice and The Gloomy Cottage caramel apples. 

Community Square Registration Information

Mini Squares

Mini squares (3x3') are available for $25 each and will be located on Broad Street, 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. 

Mini Squares are available for pre-purchase and for day-of sales between 11:00am - 5:00pm on September 19. More information and the form to purchase a mini square can be found here.

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 learn more and sign up for time slots through the day. 

For More Information

Marketing Toolkit | Website | Instagram | Facebook

The poster illustration and branding for Paint the Plaza was designed by Linnaea Marks.

About Downtown SLO

Founded in 1975, Downtown SLO is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization whose mission is to foster an economically vibrant downtown San Luis Obispo. Representing businesses within the city's Business Improvement Area, as well as voluntary members and community partners, Downtown SLO collaborates closely with the City of San Luis Obispo to support a thriving, vibrant city center. The organization is known for producing beloved community events like the weekly Thursday Night Farmers’ Market, the Annual Holiday Parade, and Concerts in the Plaza.