Last summer’s Chalkfest was “chalk”-full of folks from all walks of life enjoying the sunshine, stunning sidewalk chalk artwork on the UW-Eau Claire campus, and some healthy competition, earning the annual event top honors for Best Event of the Past Year. Families and holiday lovers explored Irvine Park’s stunning display of Christmas lights and decorations, an annual favorite that took second. Townies and out-of-towners alike came out in droves for the fourth installment of the Eaux Claires Music and Arts Festival, reveling in the fresh air, interactive art installments, and musical collaborations from the likes of The National and local favorite Phil Cook. — Katy Hackworthy