The Old Town North Alliance will transform the sidewalks and parking lots of Alexandria’s Arts & Cultural District into outdoor canvases during the second annual Chalk-A-Block festival on Sunday, Sept. 7.
The free, family-friendly event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and will feature chalk artists creating temporary masterpieces throughout Old Town North. Attendees can follow Old Town North Tern footprints from site to site across eight locations, including Hotel AKA, West Elm, and the Sheraton Suites.
“Chalk-A-Block will offer fun for all ages,” according to the Old Town North Alliance. Artists will designate areas at most locations where children and adults can create their own chalk art alongside the featured artists.
The festival will include live music from local bands The Okays, The Frontier, and Alejandro Villareal. Local artisans and makers organized by Made in ALX will showcase handcrafted items including stained glass, stationery, jewelry, spices, and baked goods.
Festival-goers can participate in a scavenger hunt by following the tern footprints between locations for a chance to win prizes.
The eight Chalk-A-Block locations span from Hotel AKA at 625 First St. to Alexandria House at 400 Madison St., with stops at West Elm, an AFBA parking lot, Salon deZEN, St. Elmo’s, Bond Vet, and Royal Restaurant.
Parking is available on the surrounding streets. The Old Town North Alliance recommends following local signage for parking information.
The event is sponsored by Hotel AKA, West Elm, AFBA/5Star, Salon deZEN, St. Elmo’s Old Town North, Oak Steakhouse, MRP Realty, Bond Vet, Sheraton Suites, Royal Restaurant, Alexandria House, Made in ALX, and Pat Miller.
The Old Town North Alliance works to implement the City of Alexandria’s plans for an Arts & Cultural District in Old Town North. More information is available at oldtownnorthalliance.com.
