Chalk the Block: Activities All Weekend Long | Southwestern Michigan Tourist Council

Chalk the Block: Activities All Weekend Long

An artist at work at Chalk The Block.

On August 2-4, St. Joseph, Mich., is packing in as much summer family fun as it can! While chalk-wielding artists take center stage, there is plenty of entertainment for all ages in this Lake Michigan resort town. Here are some must-dos:

Chalk the Block

For years, regional artists have been creating beautiful works of art out of chalk pastels using the downtown streets of St. Joseph as their canvas. This year they’ll be mapping out their ideas and transforming them into masterpieces on Broad St. between Lake Blvd. and State St. Artists draw whatever they choose so each piece is unique. You can watch the artists at work starting on Friday evening and view their finished pieces all day Saturday and Sunday. Walking by, you’ll see why this free event is a perennial favorite for thousands of locals and visitors.

Wednesday-Friday, July 31-August 2:

Join us for a Chalk the Block preview! Five artists will be showcasing their incredible chalk art at Pleasant Street Plaza from Wednesday, July 31 to Friday, August 2. Come see what's in store and then return for the full Chalk the Block experience that weekend!

Friday, August 2:

Friday Night Concert Series at the John E.N. Howard Band Shell: 7 p.m.
Bring your friends and family and enjoy a FREE concert on the bluff overlooking the St. Joseph River and Lake Michigan. Groove to the sounds of local favorite PT & the Cruisers. 

Saturday, August 3:

Farmers Market: 9 a.m-2 p.m.
Find Southwest Michigan’s best local produce at the St. Joseph Farmers Market located at Lake Bluff Park. A nice selection of wines and cheeses are also available.

Summer Movies in the Park- Cars 3 at Whittlesey Park: 7:30 pm

What's better than enjoying a family movie beneath the stars? Bring your own blankets, chairs and snacks and watch Cars 3 in the open air! 

People's Choice Voting

Watch as blank pavement transforms into breathtaking art! Artists will bring their creations to life on Broad Street and the east side of Main Street in Pleasant Street Plaza. Stop by throughout the day to see their progress unfold. Don’t forget to cast your vote for your favorite masterpiece at the People’s Choice tent on Broad Street from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

Chalk Kids Zone: 12-4pm

Unleash your inner artist! Kids of all ages can show off their chalk masterpieces on Saturday from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. in the Giannola Parking Lot across from Wanderlust Outfitters. Let your creativity shine at the Chalk the Block Kids Zone!

Sunday, August 6:

View the Completed Chalk Art: all day; judging at noon

People's Choice Voting

Continue to vote for your favorite pieces from 11-2 p.m. Winners will be announced on St. Joe Today's Facebook page. 

Antiques on the Bluff: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Shop for antiques in Lake Bluff Park, rain or shine, all while enjoying a beautiful view of Lake Michigan.

Municipal Band Concert: 7 p.m.
Listen to the St. Joseph Municipal Band perform at the John E. N. Howard Band Shell! The concert is FREE and is brought to you by the City of St. Joseph. What a great way to end your weekend.

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Please send us photos and videos of your Southwest Michigan getaway. Use our hashtag #swmichigan or upload your photos to our CrowdRiff Collector below. This is an opportunity for your photos to appear on our social media, website or marketing materials. Thanks for sharing your memories!

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