ELMIRA, NY (WENY) -- Downtown Elmira is bursting with color, as the annual Street Painting Festival returns for another year.

Artists began working on their chalk works of art Saturday morning, with progress well underway by mid-afternoon. The event is taking place on North Main and Water Streets in downtown Elmira.

Dozens of artists, of all ages and abilities, are bringing their visions to life in pastels and chalk paint. Artist Jharmi "Cuba" Leach has been taking part in the Elmira Street Painting Festival for at least five years, and says events like this bring the community together, and show people what is possible through art. 

"The arts community, a lot of people don't know that they offer so many opportunities from kids to adults that really can help them branch out in their artistic manners, their mediums or whatever they do, and they offer different kinds of gateways for people. People say there's nothing to do, and [the street painting festival] is something to do," Leach said. 

In addition to the street art, there is live music, and food trucks vendors and activities for kids at Wisner Park. The Street Painting Festival continues through Sunday, from 10AM until 3PM. Participating artists have a chance to win cash awards for their artwork.