About
Chalk The Block

Chalk the Block (CTB) was founded in 2008 as a one-day sidewalk chalk art competition with twelve participating artists that took place at Arts Festival Plaza. Since that time, the event has grown to be the largest public arts festival in the region! With overwhelming support from private and public partners, local and touring artists, and audiences from both sides of the border, the event has expanded into a three-day celebration of art, color, and community.

Over 45,000 people visit the event each year which is located in the heart of the El Paso Downtown Arts District. Over 200 local and touring artists from all disciplines participate at CTB creating a fun, immersive, and diverse environment for people of all ages to enjoy.

The event features; temporary interactive art installations, live dance and theatrical performances, a sidewalk chalk art competition, live bands, art and food vendors, and access to hands-on activities and exhibits at our sister institutions the El Paso Museum of Art and El Paso Museum of History.

Join the fun!
CTB16

The Museum and Cultural Affairs Division (MCAD) is excited to announce the 16th anniversary of Chalk the Block which will take place in the heart of the Downtown Arts District on October 13-15, 2023! What started as a one-day event featuring twelve artists has now transformed into a three-day event, featuring over 100 local and touring artists.

MCAD will be showcasing the local artistic talent that makes El Paso unique alongside touring and international installation artists! The 3-day event is FREE!