By Max Frazier and Elizabeth McNamara
Thursday night was one of those special times in downtown East Greenwich when there are dozens of things to see, do and listen to.
The annual Chalk the Block festival was bigger than ever, with nearly all of the 95 available squares were taken. The event is organized by the Main Street Association, a volunteer group whose other offerings include the Turkey Trot, movies at Academy Field, and the Egg Hunt.
“People were so happy, saying how much they loved living in East Greenwich or wished they did, which is exactly why Main Street Association was formed and we do what we do!” said MSA president Jenni Ingersoll.
Mark Hollenbeck, visiting Rhode Island from Colorado, but something of a chalk art enthusiast, with his winning square.
Chalk the Block coincided (on purpose) with the Arts on Main Stroll, also an annual favorite. The strolls, put on by the EG Chamber of Commerce, have become a popular draw from around the state.
The weather proved perfect for strolling, dining al fresco, checking out the various artists and enjoying the wide variety of music on offer up and down Main Street and even over at Academy Field, where the Parks & Recreation’s Thursday concert series got underway, with a bluegrass band and a food truck (Incred-a-Bowl). There will be a food truck at every Thursday Academy Field concert this year.
Scroll down for the list of winners and more pictures from Chalk the Block.
Nick Casey, a Johnny Cash soundalike, was a particularly popular performer on Main Street Thursday.
2019 Chalk the Block winners:
4 to 7 years old
1st place Annie and Lucy Agresti
2nd place Sawyer Bialek
1st place Katharine Schon
New EG resident Morgan, 10, draws dozens of eyes. She said she was inspired by her only recent interest in anime.
Artist Claire finishing up her rainbow. “I’m a great artist by the way,” she says.
Matt is early in the process of creating his masterpiece: man riding a dragon.
Katie Schone drew her children at the beach.
Abby, who said she loves horses and rides regularly, drew what she knew.
Creative artist and director Julihana (right) and assistant Fallyn (left) are ready to add the final touches to their masterpiece.
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