The 37th I Madonnari Italian street painting festival is coming alive at the Santa Barbara Mission. It's referred to as a romantic Italian festival in line with a sister festival in Grazie di Curtatone, Italy. The event takes place for three days beginning Saturday and through the end of the Memorial Day weekend.

Some of the artists have already begun their drawings. Along with professional chalk artists there will be many accomplished artists turning the black asphalt into their canvas. A special area for kids art has also been set up. The event benefits the Children's Creative Project, and funds raised go to arts education programs in the Santa Barbara County schools.