Along with artists of all ages, north Santa Barbara County students are invited to participate in the chalk contest at the Santa Maria Valley Strawberry Festival April 28-30, 2023.

Applications are now open, and the competition will be divided into grades one through three, four through six, and seven through eight.

Upon submission and approval of the “strawberry-themed” artwork, students will receive free admission to the festival and a 5’x5′ cement area in front of the convention center in the “Kid’s Canvas” area. Other artists will receive a 5’x5′ cement square in front of the Convention Center and a box of professional chalk.

“This new area will come alive with a strawberry before the eyes of festival-goers,” said Chief Executive Officer Caitlin Miller.

Students will receive prizes for their hard work, including four admission tickets to the Strawberry Festival, a $25 gift card, and the winning classroom teachers will receive a $150 gift card for school supplies.

“Entries will be judged on originality, artistic composition and appropriate content,” Miller said.

Artists must have artwork pre-approved by the Santa Maria Fairpark site along with more information about the annual festival.

Applications for the coloring contest are accepted until April 14^thousand to the Fairpark Administration Building.