Temecula ArtFest Replaces Sidewalk Painting Competition: What To Know

TEMECULA, CA — If you are waiting for the Temecula Art & Street Painting Festival to be announced this fall, there's been a name and content change, according to the city's community services department. Gone is the sidewalk painting competition and added is a more dynamic "mini-con" celebration for fans of anime, cartooning, and comics.

The City of Temecula’s Community Services Department will host the two-day 2023 Temecula ArtFest featuring Cartoon-A Paloozah! from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 15, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 16. The two-day festival will be held at Town Square, located at 41902 Main Street, and surrounding event areas in Old Town Temecula.

Formerly called the Temecula Art & Street Painting Festival, this fan-favorite has grown to include paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and photography.

According to the community services department, the event focuses on creativity and talent through the sold-out outdoor Art Exhibition.

Say goodbye to the chalk competition aspect of that activity, they said. More people will get a chance to try their hand at sidewalk chalk drawing outside in the city's town square.

"For 2023, the city has added a free Fun Zone! In lieu of a chalk competition, the Fun Zone will include a designated chalk art area for young artists to create pavement masterpieces! No registration is required, first come, first served.

City of Temecula Mayor Zak Schwank discussed the changes in a statement.

“Arts & Culture are foundational to quality of life for vibrant and resilient communities. Temecula ArtFest is our annual creative street fair that showcases various arts, crafts, and photography exhibits," Schwank said. "We proudly partner annually with Bigfoot Art Classes to present Cartoon-A Paloozah! which is designed for comics and anime fans. Come celebrate our colorful, innovative, and growing Arts & Culture community in Old Town Temecula. We hope to see you engage with and support our local artists and enthusiastic participants!”

Temecula’s own Mini-Con, Cartoon-A Paloozah! is back.

Fans of anime, cartooning, and comics can come together to represent and support their favorite fandoms. Cartoon-A Paloozah! will include a sold-out indoor art vendor area, an Art Contest, and a Cosplay Contest. All contest winners will receive a cash prize.

Applications for the contests will close on Friday, September 1, 2023.

This is a free, in-person event for all ages. For Artist & Cosplayer entry forms, please visit Temeculatoons.com. For more event information, please visit www.TemeculaCA.gov/ArtFest.