Via Colori Stafford 2025: A Canvas in the Sky

This September, the Stafford skies won’t just be for planes — they’ll hover above chalk masterpieces, smiling families, and the rhythmic hum of creativity in motion.

Via Colori® Stafford 2025 returns for its fifth edition on Saturday, September 27 & Sunday, September 28, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. each day.

Hosted at the Stafford Regional Airport (95 Aviation Way, Fredericksburg, VA), this open-air street painting festival offers a wide-open canvas for more than 70 local and visiting artists to transform pavement into vibrant chalk murals.

What to Expect

Artist Creations in Real TimeOver the two-day festival, artists will tackle 4×4, 6×6, and 10×10 chalk squares laid out throughout the site. As they work, visitors can stroll among them, watch the process evolve, and engage with creators directly.

Featured Talent

• Erik Greenawalt (“The Chalking Dad”) takes the spotlight as the 2025 Featured Artist. As a certified master chalk artist, Greenawalt works across international festivals and commercial clients.

• Bethany Ablondi serves as the 2025 Signature Artist, joining the festival in constructing standout chalk compositions.

Extras Beyond Chalk Alongside the art, you’ll find:

• Live entertainment on the Via Musica stage (music, performances)

• Nonprofit & sponsor booths from local organizations

• Food vendors and refreshments

• A Via Bambini children’s zone where younger creators can try their hand at chalk art

• A Quench Buggy (thanks to Stafford County Utilities) offering free water — bring a refillable bottle!

• Raffle giveaways (quilt, gift baskets, theater tickets, etc.) — one free ticket for all attendees, with extras for sale

Logistics & Admission

• Admission is free for the public and participating artists.

• All artist materials are provided — participants don’t have to bring their own (though some may prefer to bring extras)

• Accessible parking and portable restrooms will be available on site

• In case of inclement weather on September 27, the event may be consolidated into a one-day festival on the 28th

How to Get Involved

Artists & Chalkers

You can register to take a square solo, in pairs, or in groups. The deadline to apply is September 1, 2025 or until squares fill. Earlier registration gives you a perk: a chance to participate in a Via Tutori workshop with “The Chalking Dad” at the Howell Branch Library (August 7, 5:30–7:30 p.m.).

Sponsors & Supporters

Sponsors can “adopt” an artist’s square; their name is displayed alongside the chalk artwork and on the Sponsors board. Major sponsors receive enhanced visibility in event media, social channels, and promotions. Proceeds benefit Stafford County Public Schools, as well as local cultural & student programs.

Volunteers

Volunteers are critical — helping with setup, assisting artists, guiding attendees, staffing sponsor booths, and more.

Why It Matters

• Art in process: Rather than static exhibitions, Via Colori emphasizes the evolving creative act. You witness mistakes, corrections, moments of surprise — sometimes the best parts are the in-between ones.

• Community & accessibility: Because the event is free and inclusive, it invites a wide audience — families, curious passersby, and art lovers — to see and participate.

• Support for education: The festival doesn’t just spotlight creativity — its proceeds support Stafford County Public Schools and RSA/Rotary community efforts.

• Cultural vitality: Events like this help define Stafford as a place where arts and community life intersect. They enliven public spaces and bring new energy to the region.

Tips for Attendees & Artists

For Attendees

• Wear comfortable shoes and come prepared to walk between squares

• Bring a sketchbook or phone for photos — chalk art is seasonal, and this might be your only chance

• Visit early and revisit later — it’s fascinating to see the evolution of a piece

• Talk to artists — many are happy to discuss technique or their vision

• Bring a reusable water bottle to use with the Quench Buggy

• Check the weather forecast and dress in layers

For Artists

• Arrive early to orient yourself to the square layout

• Bring backup tools and extras (chalks, umbrellas, gloves)

• Pace yourself — two days of working can be taxing

• Take breaks and hydrate

• Engage visitors — explaining process helps build connection

• Use social media during the festival to document your process and draw more visitors

Final Thoughts

Via Colori Stafford 2025 is more than an arts festival: it’s a celebration of process, community, and possibility. Whether you show up to chalk, spectate, volunteer, or simply soak in the color and energy — you’ll be part of a moment when a runway becomes a canvas, and the sky above Stafford watches paint itself into being.