Applications Open for 2026 Tuscawilla Art Park Series Events

OCALA, Fla. (Sept. 22, 2025) - The City of Ocala is now accepting applications for the 2026 Tuscawilla Art Park Series, which will feature the OTrak Chalk Walk and the Tuscawilla Sculpture Stroll Celebration. Artists, artisans, local vendors, art organizations, nonprofits and food trucks are invited participate.

The OTrak Chalk Walk will be held Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Tuscawilla Art Park, 213 NE 5^th St. This free community event will include a juried chalk art competition, live music, artisan booths, family-friendly activities, food trucks, and opportunities for the public to create chalk art.

The 2026 theme is "Hidden Gem of Florida," celebrating the state's small towns, landmarks, stories, and natural beauty. Florida-based chalk artists are invited to apply for a chance to compete for cash prizes:

• Professional Artists:
  • First Place - $1,000
  • Second Place - $500
  • People's Choice Award - $500
• Students:
  • First Place - $500
  • People's Choice Award - $100

The competition is open to professional artists who live and work in Florida and to student artists in Marion County. Applications are free and available at https://www.ocalafl.gov/chalkwalk.

The Tuscawilla Sculpture Stroll Celebration will take place Saturday, Feb 21, 2026, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Tuscawilla Park, 829 NE Sanchez Ave., and Tuscawilla Art Park, 213 NE 5^th St. The event will unveil 10 new works from the 8^th Biennial Ocala Outdoor Sculpture Competition and feature guided tours, live performances, and community vendors.

Vendor applications for one or both events are available at https://www.ocalafl.gov/artpark. Completed entries may be submitted by email to [email protected] or mailed to City of Ocala Cultural Arts, 201 SE 3rd St., Second Floor, Ocala, FL 34471.

For more information, contact the City of Ocala Cultural Arts at 352-629-8447 or [email protected].

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