Kids, get ready to Chalk the Port in September. Courtesy photo

KENNEBUNKPORT – Summer may be with us, but it is never too early to make plans – in this case for Chalk the Port, which returns Sept. 23-24.

“After a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19, we are excited to bring this free, family-friendly event once again to the Recreation Complex at 20 Recreation Way,” said Town Manager Laurie Smith.

Through this year’s theme, “Kennebunkport: Past, Present, and Future,” featured and local artists will explore what makes Maine and Kennebunkport unique. All are invited to stop by on Friday to see the featured artists at work, starting in the morning through the afternoon.

Chalk the Port also has a run, called Colormekpt 5k. Organizers say throughout the route, registrants will pass through stations where volunteers will dust them with cornstarch-based chalk, making them living pieces of art. Courtesy photo

On Saturday, featured artists continue to work and are joined by local artists. The day begins with a 5K Color Fun Run where runners will be sprayed with corn starch chalk as they make their way through the route, becoming living pieces of art, Smith said. Following the run will be a pancake breakfast where the volunteers will serve hot and fresh flapjacks.

This year, local youth are invited to join a Youth Art Contest to try out their skills with chalk, with winners announced at 2 p.m.

In the afternoon and early evening, from 1 to 7 p.m., food trucks, local breweries, and live music will keep the celebration going. The Carnival of Color begins at 4 p.m. and includes carnival games, a bounce house and campfires for s’mores.

“This event is a great opportunity to connect with our community, but it is also the main fundraiser for the Kennebunkport Recreation scholarship fund which benefits so many in our community,” Smith said.

For more information, including a full schedule and sponsors, visit www.chalktheport.com.