Chalk the Block 2026: A Week of Color, Creativity, and Community

What a weekend! Our Chalk the Block event was an incredible success, bringing artists, families, and our community together to transform downtown Bonners Ferry into a vibrant outdoor gallery.

With nearly 100 chalk art submissions, sidewalks throughout the event were filled with everything from playful drawings to stunning works of art. Families spent the week strolling through town, admiring the artwork, and watching new pieces come to life. It was wonderful to see so many people slowing down to appreciate creativity and share the experience together.

This year's event coincided with Kootenai River Days, Despite events being postponed due to wildfires, Chalk the Block continued seamlessly, and the community's enthusiasm exceeded our expectations. The positive response from both participants and visitors reminded us just how much public art can bring people together.

One of the most memorable moments came on the second day, when Mother Nature decided to test everyone's determination. Rain washed away many of the chalk creations, but it didn't dampen anyone's spirits. Artists returned to recreate their work—or start entirely new masterpieces—and visitors came back to watch the sidewalks bloom with color once again. That resilience perfectly captured the heart of Chalk the Block: creativity, perseverance, and joy.

Congratulations to all of this year's award winners:

• Daniel Pruitt

• Annalise Pruitt

• Cali Catron

• Stephani Pruitt

• Sarah Fischer

• Bethany Fond

• Shelby Catron

Your talent and dedication helped make this year's event truly unforgettable.

Of course, every participant deserves recognition. Whether you created an elaborate masterpiece or simply enjoyed making chalk art with your family, you helped turn our community into a place where art was accessible to everyone. That's exactly what Chalk the Block is all about.

Thank you to everyone who participated, visited, encouraged the artists, and helped make the event possible. We are grateful for the overwhelming support from our community and can't wait to see what next year's Chalk the Block brings. Until then, keep creating, keep imagining, and keep bringing color into the world.