Celebrating 25 Years of WWGC

Colors of
the Prairie

A free chalk art festival where pollination, prairies, and art color the pavement together.

DateSaturday, November 7, 2026
Time11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
WhereWillow Waterhole, Houston
AdmissionFree & open to all
Become an Artist or Vendor Sponsor the Festival
Colors of the Prairie festival emblem showing a prairie sunrise, wildflowers, a monarch butterfly, and a winding river
The Festival

Art and ecology, side by side

Colors of the Prairie brings together chalk artists, families, and nature lovers for a day of creativity rooted in the beauty of our greenspace. Held on the grounds of the Willow Waterhole Greenspace Conservancy, the festival marks our 25th anniversary with vibrant chalk murals, live music, hands-on ecology, and native plants to take home and grow.

Bluebonnets in bloom at Willow Waterhole with the pavilion and sculptures at sunset

Chalk Art Competition

Watch 30 to 40 artists transform the pavement into murals inspired by prairies and pollinators, with prizes awarded.

Native Plant Giveaway

Take home a native fruit tree, provided in partnership with the Student Conservation Association, plus plants from local growers.

Seed Ball Station

Roll your own seed ball to help pollinators thrive across Houston, one prairie patch at a time.

Live Music & Learning

Enjoy a live DJ set alongside education stations exploring our urban prairie and wetlands.

Day Of

Schedule & activities

Here is how the day unfolds. Times for music and special activities will be confirmed closer to the event.

11:00 AM

Festival Opens

Welcome and opening remarks. Artists begin their squares.

11 AM – 3 PM

Chalk Art Competition

Artists create their murals across the pavement grid.

11 AM – 4 PM

Stations Open All Day

Seed ball station, native plant and tree giveaway, education stations, and kids' chalk zone.

2 – 3 PM

Judging

Our panel reviews the chalk art based on the published criteria.

3:30 PM

Awards Ceremony

Winners announced and prizes presented.

4:00 PM

Festival Closes

Thank you for coloring the prairie with us.

All Ages

Kids' Chalk Zone

A dedicated space for young artists to create.

Take Home

Native Fruit Trees

Provided by the Student Conservation Association, while supplies last.

Hands On

Seed Balls

Make and take a pollinator seed ball.

Learn

Ecology Stations

Discover the prairie and wetland habitat of Willow Waterhole.

Get Involved

Join us as an artist or vendor

Applications are open now through October 1, 2026. Spaces are limited, so apply early. Accepted participants will be notified after the deadline.

For Artists

Claim a chalk square

Create an original chalk mural inspired by this year's theme and compete for prizes. Artists of all skill levels are welcome.

  • Designated pavement square provided
  • Stipends available for select artists (apply for consideration)
  • Shaded hospitality area with water and snacks
  • Prizes for competition winners
Apply as an Artist
For Vendors

Bring your booth

Share your goods, food, or mission with an engaged community audience celebrating art and ecology.

  • Booth space at a well-promoted event
  • Reach 200 to 300 expected attendees
  • Food and beverage vendors welcome
  • Nurseries and native plant growers encouraged
  • Nature and conservation organizations encouraged
Apply as a Vendor
Good to Know

FAQ & directions

How much does it cost to attend?
Nothing. Colors of the Prairie is free and open to the public. Bring the whole family.
What if it rains?
Our rain date is Saturday, November 14, 2026. If we need to postpone, we will announce it here and on our social media by the morning of the event.
Where do I park?
Parking is available at 5300 Dryad Dr, Houston, TX 77035. Follow our signage and volunteer directions when you arrive.
Can I bring my dog?
Leashed, friendly dogs are welcome in general areas. Please keep pets away from the chalk squares and giveaway stations.
How do I sign up as an artist or vendor?
Applications are open now through October 1, 2026. Use the Apply as an Artist or Apply as a Vendor buttons in the Artists and Vendors section above, or reach out through the contact section below with any questions.
Will there be food?
Yes. Food and beverages will be available from our participating vendors.
Can I bring my own chalk?
Glitter and liquid chalk are not permitted, as they are difficult to clean and can harm the environment. Environmentally safe chalk will be available for purchase at the festival.

Getting here

Willow Waterhole Greenspace Conservancy
5300 Dryad Dr, Houston, TX 77035

Open in Google Maps

Accessibility

The festival is held outdoors on paved and grassy areas. Accessible pathways and restrooms will be available. Reach out with any questions about accommodations.