On Saturday, September 17, artists of all ages, skill levels, styles and backgrounds can come together to create one of the largest and most exciting public arts projects in San Jose. The ninth annual Luna Park Chalk Art Festival, held in Backesto Park, will be a day full of music, arts, food and fun for the whole family.

Here’s how it works: you can register to participate in the festival and you’ll get your own 8-foot by 4-foot area to decorate however you like. Some participants create original artworks, while others recreate cartoon characters or classic works of art and design, and you’ll also find booths hosted by families, clubs, and professional artisans. If you prefer, however, you can simply attend the festival as an observer and enjoy a day outside, wandering among the booths, listening to musical performances, and sampling the goods from local vendors and food trucks. All proceeds from the festival benefit the Luna Park Arts Foundation, which supports arts programs in local schools and youth organizations.

CC-BY-2.0/Flickr katerha