September-October 2026: Beginnings is the theme of our bi-monthly issue! You are invited to share: If you have an article, photo, illustration, podcast or video to share on this topic — let us know!
Explore the Arts and Old Town North with “Chalk-A-Block:” Sunday, September 19, 2026 from 11am-2pm!
The Old Town North Alliance presents the 3rd Annual Chalk-A-Block from 11am to 2pm on Saturday, September 19th. Visit the newly completed TideLock project in Old Town North (1055 N. Fairfax St.) for a free, family-friendly event featuring chalk artists, live music from The Okays, local makers and artists showcasing their works, and an array of food and drinks for sale from neighborhood favorites Jula’s on the Potomac, Hank’s Oyster Bar, Hank’s Pasta Bar, and Royal Restaurant plus a special appearance from Dream Catcher’s Coffee!
Artist/architect Anila Angjeli, who captivated the crowd last year with her colorful “Wings in Bloom” creation (pictured above) and accompanying interactive art activity, master muralist and Chalk-A-Block veteran Patrick Kirwin known for his “Dogs of Del Ray” mural and “Good Morning Starshine” mural in Old Town North, and Nicole von Kuhl, who was the featured artist at Virginia Beach’s Annual Chalk the Walk Festival earlier this year, will be among the artists returning to Chalk-A-Block this fall.
This year’s event will feature a distinguished judging panel, including Mayor Alyia Gaskins and The Art League Executive Director Suzanne Bethel. The judges will present a “Best in Show” award, while attendees will have the opportunity to vote for a “People’s Choice” Award.
Chalk art by Anila Angjeli and & Norah Bellacicco (Chalk-A-Block 2025)
In addition, the results of the vote to select an artist to design banners for the Old Town North Arts & Cultural District will be announced at Chalk-A-Block between 1pm and 2pm. To cast your vote, visit this link by Saturday, September 19th at noon.
Chalk-A-Block is designed for artists and art lovers of all ages. Dedicated community chalk areas will invite children and adults to create their own masterpieces.
Admission is FREE and the event is open to the public. Street parking is available nearby, and visitors are encouraged to bike or walk, as TideLock is conveniently located right along the Mount Vernon Trail.
We can’t wait to see you there! RAIN DATE: Sunday, September 20th
Chalk art by Nicole von Kuhl (Chalk-A-Block 2024)
About the Old Town North Alliance: This organization creates opportunities for you to get involved in the exciting future of Old Town North, and to make a difference. The Alliance supports the health and vitality of the Old Town North business and residential communities and advances implementation of the award-winning Old Town North Small Area Plan.
We offer:
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Vibrant restaurant scene, including a variety of ethnic cuisines and a farmer’s market
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Expanding arts district that is home to two major arts institutions, both visual and performing arts
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Unique shopping opportunities
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Parks and paths throughout the neighborhood and along the waterfront for both walkers and bicyclists
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Variety of businesses, large and small corporations, and associations, local and national in scope
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Eclectic mix of residential offerings
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Great opportunities including yoga, sports and fitness, day care, pet grooming, and
How the OTN Alliance Gets Involved
Chalk art by Patrick Kirwin (Chalk-A-Block 2025)
ACTIVATION: Old Town North is home to events that attract people to the neighborhood, showcase businesses, and create opportunities for neighbors to meet. The Thursday Farmers Market, summer concert series, Taste of Old Town North, Dogtoberfest, Random Harvest, and Spring for the Park are all sponsored or co- sponsored by the Alliance.
PLACEMAKING: The Alliance promotes projects that improve the public areas of Old Town North, making it more walkable and livable, including gateway signage, a public art program, banners, wayfinding, and high quality urban design.
BRANDING: The Old Town North brand of a walkable mixed-use community with jobs, housing, recreational, and shopping opportunities will be promoted through a website and social media.
TRANSPORTATION: The Alliance advocates for frequent service connecting Old Town North to Metro, local and regional bus services, and other new and innovative transit options.
COMMUNICATIONS: A membership directory will be posted on the Alliance website, keeping members up to date with events and activities of the Alliance.
RELATIONSHIPS: Through membership in the Alliance, you will connect with elected officials, City staff, local business owners, non-profits, and a variety of resources.
SHAPE YOUR COMMUNITY: Your voice as a member will help set priorities, obtain funding for improvements, and shape the future of Old Town North.
