The City of DeKalb’s celebration of America’s 250th anniversary continues with the Paint- A-Plug public arts program.
For the second-straight year, the Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission (CCEC) is encouraging local artists to adopt America 250 DeKalb as their theme when submitting designs to paint the City’s fire hydrants.
Public art projects are a centerpiece of America 250 DeKalb, the community wide commemoration of the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. A new Lincoln Highway mural and downtown lighting installation will be completed as part of the initiative, and last month, the CCEC announced this year’s utility box mural program will highlight the commemoration. To continue this momentum, CCEC Chair Brad Hoey said artists once again can celebrate America through Paint-A-Plu
“Paint-A-Plug remains one of DeKalb’s most popular public art projects” said CCEC Chair Brad Hoey. “2026 is the second year that we are encouraging participants to integrate a patriotic or historical theme into their Paint-A-Plug project, and I am looking forward to seeing more of this creative and colorful art on display throughout the community.”
Some theme ideas include patriotism, independence, historic figures and achievements and celebrations of the nation’s rich cultural heritage.
As a proud supporter of the arts, a downtown business has once again donated gift cards to help artists obtain supplies for their Paint-A-Plug. Helen’s Hair Designs and Spa is providing a $50 gift card to Gordon Hardware to the first five approved artists for the purchase of painting supplies.
Applications are now being accepted for Paint-A-Plug, which is open to artists of all skill levels. While encouraged, incorporation of an America 250 theme is not a requirement to participate. As in previous years, community members are welcome to submit designs using any theme that helps beautify DeKalb. The application can be found at cityofdekalb.com/paintaplug. The deadline for completing Paint-A-Plug projects is Nov 1.
This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.
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