Chalk the Walk will take place Saturday, July 11, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Grandon Civic Center near the Sterling Post Office. The event is open to people of all ages, whether they consider themselves artists or simply want to enjoy a fun afternoon outdoors.
Each participant receives a complimentary goodie bag filled with sidewalk chalk, paint and brushes before being assigned a sidewalk square to decorate however they choose. This year’s Americana theme encourages participants to embrace red, white, and blue as part of the nationwide America 250 celebration.
In addition to creating colorful sidewalk art, attendees can enjoy giant bubble stations, music, food trucks and the nearby splash pad, making the event a full afternoon of family entertainment.
One of the event’s biggest attractions is that it is completely free, thanks to the support of local sponsors and volunteers.
Sathoff explained that Sterling hosts several free community events throughout the year, including Chalk the Walk, Movies in the Park, and Sights and Sounds. Contributions from local businesses help cover supplies, activities, and keepsakes so families can enjoy the events without paying admission.
She also praised the city’s employees, who volunteer their time to help organize and operate the events. Staff members assist with planning themes, setting up activities, and staying for cleanup after each event concludes. This year, IMPACT students have also joined the volunteer effort.
City employees also help shape the events during planning meetings, offering ideas for themes and activities. Sathoff said that involvement gives employees a strong sense of ownership and pride in creating memorable experiences for the community.
Although preregistration is available, attendees are welcome to register when they arrive. Signing up in advance simply allows organizers to have a sidewalk square prepared ahead of time.
Participants will also have the opportunity to compete for prizes, including the Mayor’s Choice Award and several other recognitions for standout artwork.
Food vendors scheduled to attend include Smashing Cow, Main Squeeze, a new local cake pop business, and concessions from the Kiwanis Club. Every item at the Kiwanis concession stand will cost just $1, making it an affordable lunch option for families attending the event.
During the episode, Sathoff also highlighted several upcoming Sterling summer events.
Movies in the Park returns Aug. 7 with a showing of Cars, which was rescheduled after weather forced an earlier cancellation. Pre-movie activities begin around 6:30 p.m. with games, giveaways, food trucks and concessions before the movie begins at dusk.
Looking ahead to September, Sterling’s annual fall movie night will feature The Wizard of Oz. Following successful themed events featuring professional performers portraying Beetlejuice and the Sanderson Sisters from Hocus Pocus in previous years, organizers are planning another immersive experience complete with themed decorations and costumed characters from the classic film.
With free admission, hands-on activities, affordable food, and entertainment for all ages, Chalk the Walk continues to be one of Sterling’s signature summer events while highlighting the community partnerships and volunteer efforts that make it possible.
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