Kids’ art contest returns to the Market
The Market on Darlington Square committee encourages kids to come out Saturday, September 6, to participate in its second annual sidewalk chalk art contest. It’s free to enter, and those ages 18 and younger are eligible to compete for a cash prize in one of two categories, ages 12 and younger or ages 13-18.
Register the day of the event beginning at 9 a.m. Chalk will be provided on a first-come, first-serve basis, and children can compete in teams. Those ages 6 and younger can have parental assistance. Judging will begin at noon, and awards will be announced at 1 o’clock.
The theme for this year’s event is the natural world: animals, plants, landscapes, seascapes, etc. The theme coordinates with the Kalmia Garden Study Club Flower Show, the first in Darlington in nearly 40 years. That exhibit will be held around the corner from the Public Square at the Trinity United Methodist Church Youth Activity Building, 105 Orange St., from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Last year’s sidewalk chalk art contest had a patriotic theme to tie in with the construction of the Veterans’ Memorial. One winner depicted a detailed map of the United States, and the other drew a tribute to the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks.
The Market on Darlington Square has more than just the art contest this month. Find farmers, gardeners, artisans, and craftsmen selling a variety of hand-made items, produce, plants, food, and more, and enjoy music by Stan Thompson while you shop. This local musician has performed at the Market in past years as well as with the Borrowed Time Band. The Market runs from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, September 6, at the Public Square. Admission is free.
Also, beginning at 10 a.m., join the Recreation Department for Bingo! in the courthouse lobby.
Regular vendor spaces are still available. Fee is $25 for businesses and individuals, $15 for nonprofits selling items, and free for schools, children, and those selling farm products or produce.
The open-air monthly market is a partnership between Darlington Downtown Revitalization Association, the City of Darlington and a dedicated group of volunteers that began in 2011.
The Market on Darlington Square also has a Facebook page that can be found at www.facebook.com/DarlingtonMarket.
Go ahead and mark your calendars for Saturday, October 4, as the Market on Darlington Square committee will bring back the Showdown on the Square Chili Cook-off! Individuals, businesses, churches, civic groups, schools, or clubs compete to see who has the best chili in town and a cash prize. You choose the best bowl in this tasters’ choice competition. If you are interested in participating as a cook team, contact Lisa Rock with the Market committee at 398-4000 x 103.
BOX
The Market on Darlington Square will be held 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. September 6. Bingo with the Darlington Recreation Department will begin at 10 a.m. in the courthouse lobby. Artisans, craftsmen, farmers and other vendors will be around the Public Square selling their wares. The next event will be held the first Saturday in October and feature the Showdown on the Square Chili Cook-Off. Find the Market online at www.facebook.com/DarlingtonMarket. Info: , , (843) 395-2310, or (843) 398-4000 x103.
FOR INFORMATION
Contact City Planning Director Lisa Chalian-Rock at or 398-4000 x103 or DDRA Executive Director David Vaughan at or at (843) 395-2310.