06/13/2026
Witness an extraordinary splash of color and creativity at Chalk the Walk, a highly anticipated open-air art competition held along the iconic Virginia Beach Boardwalk. This dynamic, completely free interactive celebration brings together talented professional artists, enthusiastic amateurs, and creative youth to transform three blocks of the concrete boardwalk into a massive, impromptu gallery of vibrant street paintings.
Participants are tasked with bringing a specific announced theme to life inside four-by-four-foot pavement squares. Throughout the day, spectators can stroll alongside the oceanfront and watch the intense creative process unfold in real-time as black-and-white outlines evolve into stunning, multi-dimensional masterpieces. Evaluated by a panel of expert judges based on composition, creativity, and use of color, the event builds excitement all afternoon before culminating in an official awards ceremony. Set right against the scenic backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, this colorful tradition offers a uniquely interactive addition to any summer beach vacation.
Chalk the Walk Event Details
- Admission: Entirely free for all spectators and open to the general public with no tickets required
- Time: The festival and street painting run from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm with winners announced at 4:45 pm
- Location: Directly on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk stretching between 16th Street and 18th Street
- Artist Registration: Free on-site registration is available on the morning of the event from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm at 17th Street on a first-come basis as capacity is limited
- Competition Guidelines: All registered participants must bring their own chalk supplies and have their themed drawings finalized by 3:30 pm to qualify for official judging panels
- Competitive Divisions: Artists compete across three designated skill categories consisting of Youth ages 12 to 16, Amateur, and Professional lines for trophies and cash prizes
- Simultaneous Festivities: The 17th Street Art Festival runs concurrently inside 17th Street Park featuring regional vendor tents showcasing fine crafts, sculptures, and jewelry alongside live music entertainment
Current Chalk the Walk Competition Schedule
- 10:00 am: On-site competitor registration opens at the 17th Street park tent and official pavement drawing begins
- 12:30 pm: Official artist registration closes for all categories
- 3:30 pm: Drawing time expires and all chalk masterpieces must be complete for the judges scorecard evaluation
- 4:45 pm: Winners are officially announced and trophies are awarded on the boardwalk at the 17th Street stage area