The Avenida de Colores Burns Square Chalk Festival started in 2007 with just 22 adult and student artists.  By 2010, the Sarasota International Street Painting Festival had over 250 street painters attending from all over the world.  And as if the magnificent performance art isn’t enough, the event includes so many family friendly activities: pumpkin carving,  the childrens’ chalk area, almost non-stop bands, great food, magic, street performers.  Add a fashion show and a film festival.   Where else can you have so much fun in Sarasota?

The excitement goes on all day and into the night during the annual 3 day festival.  This is a great event to schedule your Sarasota vacation around.  And unlike most activities that provide this much entertainment, there’s no admission fee!

See the video of Tracy Lee Stum from California who created a 60’X30′ 3-d piece entitled Mousetrap.

There’s sure to be a full roster of exciting events this year.  One addition will be sponsored graffiti artists who will transform dozens of walls in downtown Sarasota into magnificent works of art and compete for prizes.  The 2011 theme is the “Pavement Art through the Ages”.  You can keep track of all of the plans at the Sarasota Chalk Festival website.

So mark your calendar!  Invite your out of town friends.  The 2011 Sarasota Chalk Festival is set for November 4th – 6th.  Hope to see you there!