Chalk on the Walk - Frequently Asked Questions

When is it?

Sunday, May 4, 2008 - there is no rain date

Where is it?

On Church Street in Harvard Square, Cambridge, Massachusetts. Begins at the corner of Brattle Street and Church Street, stretching along Church Street.

Questions from artists

What type of chalks are used?

Prang Gallery 12 Freart colored paper chalks.  Each new box of chalk contains 12 colors ((including black and white).  There are also many boxes of used chalk pieces available for switching around with other artists to put together enough of the colors you may need. (See below)

May I bring my own chalks?

No. We are only use the type we provide for environmental reasons.  And, very definitely, no fixatives!!

Where do I pick up the chalks?

At the registration desk located on Church Street.

What if I need more chalk? 

You can swap with your neighbors.  At the end of the day, you can either keep your chalks or deposit in a collection box.  The donated chalk is given to "Our Place", the day care center for homeless children run by the Salvation Army.

What should I bring with me (artist)?

A hat to block the sun, water or other beverage, something to sit/kneel on.  Many artists use disposable latex gloves to protect their hands   If you are registered, you will be sent a list of items to bring and not bring (boom boxes, dogs) along with directions.

When can I start working?

10:00 a.m.

How long does it take?

Most artists finish in a couple of hours, but there is no real time limit.  You must be finished by 4:00 p.m., which is when the judging begins.

Do I need a sponsor?

Yes, but if you don’t have your own The Rotary Club will provide one.   The Rotary Club has approximately 50 squares available from sponsors.  If you aren't registered in advance, there may not be a square available for you on the day of the event.

Can I register at the event?

Yes, if there is any space available. 

Can I bring someone to help me?

By all means, the more the merrier!

General Questions

Are children allowed to participate?

Absolutely.  We even have special smaller blocks set aside just for children under 12. The blocks can be purchased on the spot if the child becomes inspired.

What happens to the pictures?

Sadly they are washed away at the end of the day.  We do record many on film however and encourage you to do the same.

Can I get on the mailing list?

Yes, but it is an e-mail list.  We regularly e-mail to anyone who has participated in the past.

What happens if it rains?

If it is a light rain, we do it anyway and hope it stops.  Bring plastic sheeting if the skies look threatening.  Anything heavier, we have to call it off.  There is no rain date.  Check the website.

Where does the money go?

To the Cambridge Rotary Educational Fund, Inc., a   Club sponsored charity that makes grants to local educational and charitable organizations.  A list of past beneficiaries of the Fund is available at the event.

What is Cambridge Rotary?

Rotary is an organization of business and professional leaders united worldwide who believe in the ideal of service above self. Its goal is to build a better world, emphasizing service activities by individuals and groups that enhance the quality of life and human dignity, encouraging high ethical standards and creating peace in the world.  In more than 160 countries worldwide, approximately 1.2 million Rotarians belong to more than 32,000 Rotary Clubs that provide opportunities for local business people to serve their community in a wide variety of ways.

Will there be refreshments/sanitary facilities?

The MayFair has a  food festival as part of the program and there will be facilities all through Harvard Square.

Questions from Sponsors

What does it cost to participate?

From  $250 and $1000, the amount depends on the size of the square you sponsor.  The biggest squares(10' x 12') are $1,000. 

How is my name/business displayed?

Each block has a display sign with the name of the sponsor.

How many people attend?

On average the Harvard Square MayFair draws over 100,000 participants each year.

Do I have to provide an artist?

Yes, if you want to.  Perhaps you have a talented employee who could use it as a reward, or a talented customer who may deserve a treat.  Or, you could set up a raffle or contest with the square as a prize.  It's more fun to put together a team of employees to produce something you can use in future advertising. If none of these appeals, the Rotary Club of Cambridge will provide an artist for you.

Can I have the artist produce an image of my chosing?

If you provide your own artist, you can speak to them about the image you would like to have depicted on your square.  Sponsors who would like, for example, their corporate logo, will have to make arrangements with an artist of their choosing in advance.  If the Rotary Club of Cambridge provides an artist for you, the assignment happens on the morning of the event as artists sign in.  It is too late to request a specific image at that point.

Is the cost tax deductible?

Yes, both as a charitable donation and an advertising business expense.

Can I have more than one artist draw on my spot (a team)?

Yes. Last year, some corporate sponsors put together employee teams as a fun event.   You may want to challenge one of your competitors to a friendly contest!