If you grew up in Humboldt, you most likely know what Pastels on the Plaza is. This is a fundraiser for the Northcoast Children’s Services. Northcoast Children’s Services is a company that helps support low-cost preschool programs for young children. All the proceeds from Pastels on the Plaza go to supporting this company.  This event provides a fun and interactive community activity that integrates local businesses and artists.

Nothcoast Children Services states, “Proceeds from this event help fund our Preschool and Family Services that extend to over 800 children and families in Humboldt and Del Norte Counties annually.”

 Each business purchases a lined-out square of the plaza, making themselves a sponsor for Northcoast Children’s Services. The business or company is either paired up with an artist, creates the pastel design themselves, or hires someone else to do the art for them. 

The hosts of the event provide artists with all the supplies to help them succeed, such as pastels, water, and paintbrushes. Some artists get creative and make the pastels into different mediums like paint. 

Pastels on the Plaza is a good way for local businesses to advertise themselves, while also contributing to a company that helps support low-cost preschool programs for young children. 

While artists are working, there is the weekly farmers market filled with local farmers and fresh produce. The environment is lively and filled with live music, providing a space where people can walk around and observe artists working in their spaces.

Senior Dominic Previde created a square for Wildwood Music at this year’s Pastels on the Plaza. 

“The past two years I have been doing for my family’s business,” Previde said. 

Pastels on the Plaza bring local people together to celebrate and contribute to a great cause that will further benefit the community. 

 Previde says,  “It’s really cool and it’s fun to see all the art when it’s finished.”