New Partnership Revives Maple Grove Chalkfest
A popular summer festival that was in jeopardy after its parent organization disbanded will return to Maple Grove this summer.
Maple Grove Chalkfest will now operate as a cooperative between the Maple Grove Arts Center, Experience Maple Grove and well-known local artist Shawn McCann.
The festival, which will celebrate its 11th year of operation, draws thousands to the streets of Maple Grove to see artists create chalk drawings.
Previously, the Maple Grove Business Association (MGBA) organized the festival.
That organization folded in December 2025 and it was unclear if another organization would take up the mantle.
In a press release, the new organizers said they will bring “fresh energy, artistic vision, and community-centered leadership to one of the city’s most beloved summer traditions.”
Maple Grove Chalkfest will now operate as a cooperative between the Maple Grove Arts Center, Experience Maple Grove and artist Shawn McCann.
The date for the festival was not immediately released, but should be available within weeks.
“This partnership blends community passion, creative excellence, and a shared commitment to keeping Chalkfest a flagship event for Maple Grove,” said Lise Spence-Parsons, president of the Maple Grove Arts Center. “The funding from Experience Maple Grove is instrumental in allowing us to move forward and we couldn’t be more excited. Additional sponsorships are needed, but we are confident that our tight-knit business community will respond.”
According to the press release, this year’s festival will feature an international array of chalk artists, community drawing spaces, food vendors and other family-friendly activities.
“Bringing Chalkfest back with the support of Experience Maple Grove and the Maple Grove Arts Center creates an ideal blend of vision and community partnership,” said Shawn McCann, one of the festival’s co-creators. “It’s a joy to see this event evolve while staying true to its creative core.”
Related: Future of Chalkfest Maple Grove Uncertain As Organizer Disbands
