Paint the Street Fest
Saturday, July 18, 2-10pm
Make your literal mark on downtown Springfield at the Springfield Art Association’s Third Annual Paint the Street Festival. This all-ages community block party combines painting and live entertainment for a day of fun on Saturday, July 18. The festival will take place on Washington Street, between Fourth and Seventh streets, from 2 to 10 p.m. While purchase of a 6-foot by 6-foot square for painting will cost $30-$35, admission to the festival, which also features music, food and other entertainment throughout the day, is free.
Individuals and community groups (no more than six artists to one square) of all levels of skill and experience are invited to purchase 6-foot by 6-foot squares of the street to paint anything they desire. Squares can be purchased in advance for $30 per space or $35 per space the day of. Advance registration is suggested, as paintings squares are limited to 300 and will sell out. Purchase price includes tempera paint, brushes, sponges and a goody-bag featuring gifts from event sponsors. The Springfield Art Association will provide all necessary painting supplies, but painters are encouraged to bring stencils, knee pads, blankets, lawn chairs, pop-up tents, and anything else they may desire to create their masterpiece. Squares will be available for painting from 2 until 7 p.m. As day turns to night, the streets will morph into a gallery under the stars, as attendees enjoy music, food and art until the party ends at 10 p.m.
This year’s food truck lineup will feature GnB’s Italian Ice, Coonrod’s Concessions, and Chaditos. Entertainment will be provided throughout the day. The children’s area will be located on the Washington Street cobblestone between Fifth and Sixth streets. A creative new addition to this year’s children’s tent will be a kite-making station, as well as space to fly finished kites on the Old Capitol Plaza. Food vendors will set up in this area as well, to ensure central access for all attendees.
In the event of rain, Paint the Street Fest will move to Sunday, July 19, from 2 to 10 p.m. To register for a square, become a sponsor or gain more information, visit http:// springfieldart.org, or call the Springfield Art Association at 523-2631.
