MEMPHIS, Tenn. (April 27, 2026) — The Memphis Brooks Museum of Art will host Chalkfest on Saturday, May 2, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., inviting community members of all ages to transform the museum plaza into a sprawling chalk canvas. The free annual festival will feature artist demonstrations, community chalk drawings, live performances, food trucks, and hands-on creative activities for families.
“Chalkfest is rooted in the idea that art can be simple, joyful, and open to everyone,” said Ali Bush, Associate Director of Education. “Chalk is one of the most accessible and family-friendly materials in the art world, and every year this event turns that simple medium into a large-scale community artwork. We’re especially excited to celebrate this final Chalkfest in Overton Park with the community that has made it so special.”
As the plaza fills with color, local artists Kaylyn Webster, Kendrick Moore, Craig Thompson, and Margaret Jessie will create large-scale chalk recreations of works from Memphis’ art collection, accompanied by live performances from The Soul Shockers and DJ Siphne A. The event will feature food from Soi 9, Mempops, Green Beetle, and the museum’s own hot dog grill, along with booths from community partners, face-painting, and hands-on crafts where anyone can make bright felt pennants and playful paper butterflies.
Chalkfest is one of four free Community Days the museum hosts each year, alongside Día de los Muertos, Holi, and Lunar New Year. The series is part of the museum's commitment to making art accessible to all Memphians, with each event opening the plaza and galleries to the public and bringing neighbors together. Additionally, every Saturday, Memphis' art museum offers free drop-in art making workshops for families, called Super Saturdays.
Chalkfest will take place outdoors on the museum plaza and chalk will not be permitted inside the building. Visitors are encouraged to come early to watch the artwork take shape throughout the day and to explore the museum during their visit. Attendees may bring their own chalk or purchase it onsite for $5; chalk is free for museum members.
This year’s event is sponsored by Tennessee Valley Authority, Semmes Murphey Clinic, Pediatric Dental Clinic, Varsity Spirit, and Tennessee Delta Alliance.
Accessibility accommodations are available. Guests are encouraged to contact the museum in advance to help ensure a comfortable experience. In the case of inclement weather, Chalkfest will be moved to Sunday, May 3, at 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
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About Memphis Art Museum
Opening in December 2026 along the Mississippi River, Memphis Art Museum is the reimagined home of the Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. As a 123,500-square-foot cultural campus, it offers expanded galleries, abundant public spaces, and new studios for learning and creativity. Designed as an open invitation to the city, the museum serves as a home for creativity and community, where Memphians and visitors gather, connect, and experience the power of art through world-class architecture, a rooftop sculpture garden, and year-round cultural programming.
Media Contacts:
Kelly Helton, kelly.helton@memphisartmuseum.org | 901-590-6935
For full press release, please refer to the downloadable PDF.