Event calendar

Sidewalk Chalk Contest

Date: Wednesday, July 1, 2026

Time: 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Fee: Free!

Age: All ages.

Contact: 815-722-4121

Location: Hidden Lakes Trout Farm at Hidden Oaks Preserve

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A rainbow of sidewalk chalk lined up on pavement.
Photo via Adobe Stock

Event details

This ongoing program will run from Wednesday, July 1, to Friday, July 31. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays to Fridays and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays.

Enjoy the summer in the preserves and let your creative side shine! Become inspired by all the wildlife and beautiful sights and sounds around you and create a chalk masterpiece for all to appreciate. The Tackle Box bait shop will supply the chalk; you supply the work of art. Once you’re done, enter your chalk art into our contest. 

Winners will be picked in the following categories: most creative, most nature-themed and best artist in the making! To enter, have Hidden Lakes staff take a picture of your masterpiece. Make sure to include the artist’s name and contact information with the submission. One entry per artist. 

Event requirements

No registration required.

The parking lot and trail are paved. Anyone who requires an auxiliary aid or service to participate in this program should mention their request when registering or submit a request online no later than 48 hours before the program.