In 1994, the inauguration of the Paint The Town festivities excited over 300 creative artist to try something a little “out of the ordinary.” They were invited to pay money to receive a painting kit and sit on the street and paint anything they wished on the surface of Main Street, in a four foot by four foot area. That doesn’t sound like the way most would like to spend their Saturday afternoon.
So the Children’s Art Preservation Association (CAPA) sponsors added musical entertainment and food vendors, to entice friends and family of the painters to spend the afternoon in downtown Morrison, IL.
Did the concept work as an event that could draw visitors to town and create recognition for Morrison, in a way that is unique and interesting enough to make them want to return? The answer is evident enough.
This celebration of Paint The Town’s 20th year, on Saturday, September 20, anticipates 2000 painters creating on some of the same four by four squares that were offered in 1994. As a special thank you to the many participants, the registration price is the same as it was in 1994–just $8.
Entertainment has expanded to a variety of musicians, magicians, creative artists, and other entertainers who appeal to all ages. Vendors have been chosen so a variety of foods and snacks are not duplicated. Their offerings are designed for those attending, not a competitive marketing arena of like products.
The 20th anniversary includes another inaugural event. Paint The Town and Harvest Hammer combine efforts to offer a “Color Run.” This fun, non-competiitve race will entertain onlookers. Runners will jog on Genesee, from Morrison High School to True Value Hardware, and become a human canvas of color as they allow spectators to douse them with colored powder. The “Color Run” will be very entertaining and enjoyable. It will transition the morning crowd, that gathered to watch the Harvest Hammer races at the high school, to the activities that surround Paint The Town in downtown Morrison in the afternoon and evening.
All in all, Morrison offers a fun day on Saturday, September 20, that will satisfy the most curious, adventurous, creative, and fun-loving personalities. Mark your calendar. Register to be part of the 20th Anniversary of Paint The Town.