Flutter by the Free Pasadena Chalk Festival

It's a cool and creative Father's Day Weekend tradition at The Paseo.

What to Know

  • June 15 and 16, 2019, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • The Paseo
  • Free

We often fret over facing a blank page, and the dread of staring at a wordless, picture-free expanse, especially when jump-starting our creativity, and making something out of nothing, is something we must do.

But what of facing the blank square of cement? Of staring down upon a slab of sidewalk-y ground that has nothing on it, save perhaps a faint shoe print or two?

That must be even more intense, in some ways, especially when you know that thousands of spectators will soon be stopping by to admire your on-the-ground artwork. 

So we do send props, and much admiration, to the hundreds of artists who participate in the annual Pasadena Chalk Festival, a free favorite that pops up, with cheer, color, and pizzazz, each Father's Day Weekend at The Paseo on Colorado Boulevard.

For these marvelous madonnari create sidewalk-based artworks that are full of imagination, humor, and the occasional trompe l'oeil elements, making for pieces with depth and shading that can surprise, depending upon where you're standing.

Saturday, June 15? It's all about seeing the pictures initially take shape. That's really interesting, and you'll be strolling by kneeling artists and their chalk-packed kits. It's a different way to experience the process, for sure.

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Sunday, June 16? The artworks are finally nearing their finish lines, as the last of the hues and lines and details get filled in, with flourish.

Other lively parts to the weekend include an area where kids can make Father's Day cards, live music, and the Pasadena Police Classic Car Show on Sunday.

There's a lot to see, so you'll want to make time for leisurely strolling. And, of course, there are eateries nearby, in The Paseo and beyond, if Dad is hoping for something brunchy or lunchy on his big holiday.

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