June 2, 2026, Hope, Arkansas – Hope Downtown Network and the Southwest Arkansas Arts

Council are inviting young artists to gather for a Chalk the Walk Contest, scheduled for

Thursday, June 25, 2026, from 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM in Downtown Hope.

The theme, “Summertime Fun” encourages participants to transform downtown sidewalks into

colorful works of art celebrating the joys of summer. From beach balls and sunshine to ice

cream cones and outdoor adventures, young artists are encouraged to let their imaginations

shine.

The contest is open to children ages 5-13 and will be divided into age groups with designated

drawing locations throughout downtown:

Ages 5-7: Elm Street Sidewalks (between 2 nd and Division Street)

Ages 8-10: Main Street Sidewalks (between 3 rd Street and Division Street)

Ages 11-13: 2 nd Street Sidewalks (between Elm Street and Walnut Street)

“Chalk the Walk is a wonderful opportunity for young people to express their creativity while

bringing color, excitement, and energy to our downtown district,” said Hope Downtown

Network Executive Director, Beckie Moore. “We are grateful for our partnership with the

Southwest Arkansas Arts Council in providing this fun, family-friendly event for our

community.”

Participants should register by emailing participant name(s) and age(s) to

[email protected]. Additional event details will be provided in a reply email.

The Chalk the Walk Contest is a part of an exciting afternoon in downtown Hope leading up to

the June 25 th Summer Sounds Downtown evening concert, giving families another opportunity

to enjoy art and community engagement in the heart of the city.