The Town of Monticello is planning a beautification and improvement project that’s temporary. It will likely last only as long as the sunshine does.

In a joint promotion between the town and the Lawrence County Community Development Association, children are encouraged to grab some free chalk Friday and let their creative side go wild.

“Chalk on the Walk” is a new event planned for Friday that will transform the sidewalks on East Broad Street into tiny works of art, at least until it rains. Several merchants will be open past regular hours to give parents an opportunity to shop while their children beautify the area, said Monticello Mayor Martha Watts.

“It’s just a fun night out. Something fun to do,” she said. “Hopefully it’ll increase sales to the merchants staying open. I hope it gives activity to the parents and the children. Any kind of event we can bring in is a positive.”

Chalk will be provided at the Lawrence County Civic Center while supplies last.

The event is 5:30 until 9 p.m.

Organizers are also serving hot dogs and bottled water to the young artists.

At 7 p.m., Tim Burton’s “Dumbo” will be shown by projector at Cooper’s Ferry Park behind the Lawrence County Civic Center.

Seating isn’t provided at the park, so bring a chair or blanket.

The Lawrence County Chamber of Commerce has wanted to show movies in Monticello for a while, said Leigh Ann Reeves, executive assistant for Lawrence County CDA.

“We thought it would be a good way to do a movie kickoff,” she said. “This is a fun back-to-school event to give kids and parents something to do.”

For more information, call Monticello City Hall at 601-587-0045.

Story by Gracie Byrne