On the Mississippi River
MONTICELLO
COMMUNITY GUIDE 2025
Let ’ s Chalk turns streets into works of art
One of Monticello ’ s newest traditions is truly something to chalk about . Let ’ s Chalk , a two-day street art festival , lets creatives take over downtown Monticello in late summer / early fall , turning the pavement on Walnut and River streets into vibrant works of art .
Better known as “ Chalkfest ,” the event features bright , bold and even 3D art from chalk art professionals and amateurs from across the United States , who join together in allowing spectators to watch chalk art masterpieces take shape right before their eyes .
The fourth annual event , which will also feature entertainment , food , children ’ s activities and plenty of family fun , is slated to be held sometime in September of 2025 , in West Bridge Park and the surrounding area .
Originally run in conjunction with the City of Monticello , Let ’ s Chalk founder Mayor Lloyd Hilgart , who has spearheaded the festival since its start in 2022 , has now fully taken over the venture , running it privately .
At Let ’ s Chalk , attendees can enjoy family-friendly activities , including chalk fun for kids to draw their own masterpieces , listen to local musicians , explore the art installations throughout the downtown and sample food and drink offerings . Last year , in 2024 , more than 20 professional artists each made a drawing , along with about 10 amateur artists .
While chalk is the namesake and is the medium of choice for many , some artists also use paint , or combine paint , chalk and pastels to leave their mark . Making the art is no easy task , as the artists spend all day in the elements , and end up covered head to toe in chalk , paint and other materials .
A crowd favorite is always the 3-D pieces , which make for fun photo ops . In 2024 , that included a feline in the midst of cats in the cradle , along with a gaggle of bright yellow minions .
If all that art makes you hungry , there are plenty of food and drinks options available — and all exclusively from city businesses . Event organizers take pride in showcasing only local eateries .
In its inaugural year , 2022 , Let ’ s Chalk attracted about 15,000 people to Monticello — approximately 5,000 on Saturday and 10,000 on Sunday .
For more information on the chalk festival , visit the event ’ s Facebook page at https :// shorturl . at / od8rl .
Community Guide 2025 | MONTICELLO | 19