PK Art Fest Brings Art, Activities and Community Together Downtown

Downtown Parsons was full of creativity Saturday as artists, performers, students and community members came together for the 2026 PK Art Fest.

Throughout the day, visitors had the chance to shop from artists and vendors, enjoy live performances, visit pop-up galleries and take part in activities throughout downtown. The festival also showcased the work of local and area artists, photographers and students, giving people plenty of reasons to explore Main Street and the surrounding downtown businesses.

One of the highlights of the day was the annual Chalk Walk sponsored by the Parsons Public Library, with participants turning the sidewalks into colorful works of art. Winners may pick up their prizes from the library during their regular hours. This year’s Chalk Walk winners were:

• Youth Group: Mila Sharp and Brooke Wacker

• Adult Group: 1st place, Elizabeth Whinery and Krista Carson; 2nd place, Mary Sharp and Morgan Wacker

• Adult: 1st place, Ashley Heady; 2nd place, Marcie Sparkle Stanton

• Teen: 1st place, Aubrey Kinsch; 2nd place, Tristian Modjwski

• Youth: 1st place, Blaine Gebelin; 2nd place, Ruby Heady

The PK Art Fest Photography Contest sponsored by Callie Carpenter Photography & Design also highlighted photographers of all ages from across the area. Winners were:

Professional: Tommy

Adult: 1st place, Kristen; 2nd place, Richard; 3rd place, Jessica; Honorable Mentions, Kristen and Samantha

Teen, ages 13–17: No entries

Youth, age 12 and under: 1st place, Finn; 2nd place, Gwen; 3rd place, Kyndahl; Honorable Mentions, Isaiah and Max

PK Art Fest would not be possible without the artists, photographers, performers, vendors, downtown businesses, volunteers and community members who participate each year. The Parsons Area Chamber of Commerce also thanks the event sponsors whose support helps make the festival and its activities possible.

Platinum: Great Plains Development Authority and Labette Health
Gold: KLKC
Silver: City of Parsons
Inflatables: Deep Fission
Bronze: Presbyterian Manor and Tank Connection

Most importantly, thank you to everyone who came downtown, walked through the galleries, watched a performance, shopped with an artist, created something of their own and helped make PK Art Fest a successful day in Downtown Parsons.

Want to get involved in the planning for next year or have suggestions? Contact the Chamber!