Chalk Walk 2026

The Fort Wayne Museum of Art Chalk Walk has been a trademark event held on Main Street in downtown Fort Wayne since 2000. The event is based on an Italian tradition of street painting that dates to the 16th century, known as i madonnari (street painters). Using pastels, artists of varying levels of experience may choose to reproduce existing artworks or create their own in their designated square. The event typically draws 40,000 people to see the spectacle unfold.

Registration will open in early April through forms which will be linked below!

4×4′ Square – Sign Up Here
8×8′ Square – SOLD OUT!

If you would like to be added to the Waitlist, the form will be here.

As it is every year, our goal is to draw the city’s most creative citizens together to contribute to the largest community art project in the region, attracting families, friends, and supporters of a vibrant cultural life in Fort Wayne!

Please note: We do not give refunds. If you are unable to keep your square after registration, please consider your fee a donation to FWMoA, a non-profit organization. If you would like to be on a waitlist, please fill out this form here (coming soon).

Chalk Walk Time Lapse 

For a limited time only! Purchase a 2025 Chalk Walk souvenir t-shirt at the Paradigm Gallery for $20. Limited sizes and amounts available, so stop in and grab one quick!

2026 Award Categories 

• Best Use of a Street/Sidewalk Blemish
  Imperfections in the pavement are a part of Chalk Walk! How will you deal with the imperfections of your square in a creative way?
• Trompe l’oeil
  French for “fool the eye”, trompe l’oeil drawings utilize 3D drawing techniques that fool the viewer by making the drawing seem like it’s a part of real life.
• Favorite Art Genre (Pop, Surrealism, Impressionism, Renaissance, Cubism, etc.)
• Birds of a Feather
  Our feathered friends in the Hoosier state are asking for some Chalk Walk love! Show us your favorite Indiana bird(s).
• Candyland: A Sweet Escape on Main Street
  Design your own land of sweets from your wildest dreams!
• America @ 250
  This year, our country marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Show us illustrious figures or pivotal moments from the last 250 years.
• Classic American Literature
  Think of the classics that have stood the test of time: Charlotte’s Web, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, The Call of the Wild, Moby Dick, and so many more that have enlivened our imaginations for generations.
• People’s Choice
  The public votes for this one on Sunday!
• Best Square by an Artist Under 12
  Are you a young chalker? Compete in this category for a chance to win $50!

For any questions, please call FWMoA Events Coordinator Emily Uphoff at 260-422-6467 or [email protected].

Title Sponsor, Activity Tent, Entertainment, and Water Bottle Sponsor

Street Sponsors