Chalktober Fest is coming to Marietta Square on October 11 and 12. Chalktober Fest is an annual arts event by the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art, celebrating the arts in our vibrant community and benefiting the museum. It's a whirlwind of chalk art, local vendors, dance, games, delicacies, live music, and more. We sat down with Sally Macaulay, Executive Director of the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art, to get an inside scoop on the festival.
How does the festival bring people of all ages together?
Chalktoberfest is truly a celebration for everyone. We have artist-centered programming with 90+ professional chalk artists creating breathtaking works right on the streets, family-friendly activities like our Find Stitch scavenger hunt, and adults-only fun with our Beer & Wine Festival. Add in live bands all day, aerial performances in the park, and delicious food trucks lining Atlanta Street, and you have a weekend where the whole community connects through art, music, and shared experiences.
For first-time visitors, what’s a must-see?
Don’t miss watching a chalk masterpiece come to life; it’s mesmerizing to see art emerge from the pavement. On Saturday, stroll through the Beer & Wine Festival to sample from 100+ craft beers and 25+wines, enjoy live music from local and regional bands, and let the kids join the scavenger hunt. The energy, color, and creativity around every corner make the entire event one big “don’t miss” moment.
How does the event support the local community?
Chalktoberfest drives thousands of visitors into downtown Marietta, bringing huge benefits to our local shops, restaurants, and service businesses. We also feature a variety of local vendors, artists, and makers, giving festival-goers the chance to discover and support small businesses. It’s a win-win. Our community gains cultural enrichment, and our economy gets a meaningful boost.
Are there VIP tickets or one-day passes?
The Beer & Wine Festival offers a one-day ticket. There are no VIP tickets at this event. General admission to view the chalk art and enjoy live entertainment is free, so everyone can experience the heart of Chalktoberfest.
How many years has the Museum hosted Chalktoberfest, and how has it grown?
This is our 13th year hosting Chalktoberfest, and it has grown from a small local gathering to one of the Southeast’s premier chalk art festivals. We’ve raised thousands of dollars directly supporting the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art’s exhibitions, community outreach programs, and cultural events.
Who are the artists and where do they come from?
Our 90+ professional chalk artists travel from all over the U.S. and internationally to participate. This year, they're coming from Mexico, Italy, the Netherlands, and the United States. The variety of styles and techniques is part of what makes the art so captivating.
What is the mission, vision, and influence of the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art?
Part of the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art’s mission is to build community through art. We believe art should be accessible, inspiring, and a unifying force for people of all ages and backgrounds. Through exhibitions, educational programming, and events like Chalktoberfest, we enrich our community’s cultural life and spark creative connections.
If someone is on the fence about attending…
Come once, and you’ll never miss it again. Chalktoberfest is an explosion of color, music, and joy that can’t be captured in photos; you have to feel the energy in person. It’s free to attend, family-friendly, and an unforgettable way to spend a fall weekend.
Who are your sponsors, and how can businesses get involved?
We are proud to have Northside Hospital, Henssler Financial, SA White Oil, Edward Jones, Yeoman's Consulting Group, The City of Marietta, The Downtown Marietta Development Authority, Cobb County Parks, Cobb County Libraries, Cobb County Senior Services, and The University of Georgia Extension as presenting sponsors this year. Businesses interested in becoming a sponsor can reach out directly to the Marietta Cobb Museum of Art for partnership opportunities.
Anything else to share?
We like to say Chalktoberfest is where art meets heart. It’s more than a festival, it’s a way to connect with creativity, community, and culture in one unforgettable weekend. We invite everyone to come be a part of it!
Visit chalktoberfest.com to purchase tickets and learn more.
Come once, and you’ll never miss it again. Chalktoberfest is an explosion of color, music, and joy that can’t be captured in photos
We believe art should be accessible, inspiring, and a unifying force for people of all ages and backgrounds. Through exhibitions, educational programming, and events like Chalktoberfest, we enrich our community’s cultural life and spark creative connections.