Cambridge Rotary - Chalk on the Walk

Chalk on the Walk is part of Harvard Square's annual Oktoberfest celebration. A crowd that reaches 100,000 people sees our artists' beautiful drawings come to life. This year Octoberfest will be on Sunday, October 6, 2024.

Click the links on the left for sponsor and artist information and helpful FAQs for additional information as well as to see the fabulous drawings from prior years.

What is Chalk on the Walk?

Chalk on the Walk is the Rotary Club of Cambridge's annual fundraiser. The proceeds help the Club support college scholarships, local literacy and education programs and many Cambridge Rotary grants to local and global nonprofits as well as supporting the club's service projects throughout the year.

It is the Cambridge version of an Italian Street Painting Festival and is one of the many interesting activities

that make up the Harvard Square Oktoberfest celebration each October. The artwork is judged and prizes are awarded at 3:30 pm. Total awards this year will be over $1,150 in prize money.

Chalk Video – Here's a short video produced in 2023. See first hand how exciting this event is!!!!

How is the money raised?

Local businesses and generous individuals buy "squares." Each square is assigned to an artist. The sponsor's name appear on signs at each square.

How will Cambridge Rotary spend the money it raises at Chalk on the Walk?

The money we raise from Chalk on the Walk is the primary source of funding for our charitable works. The Club

grants scholarships to graduating high school students and makes donations to Cambridge charities that address education as well as social issues ranging from mental health and homelessness to refugee aid and food insecurity.

I want to participate as a Sponsor or an Artist. How do I find out more?

Sponsors should go to the Sponsor Information Page.

Artists should visit the Artist Information Page. Participaiton is free!

Cambridge Rotary is greatly appreciative of the support of our sponsors.

Want to find out more?

Look at our Frequently Ask Questions (FAQ). Make sure to take a look at the Chalk on the Walk Photo pages.

If you still have a question e-mail us at info@cambridgerotary.org and we will get back to you.

WE LOOK FORWARD TO SEEING YOU!