Paint-a-Plug

DeKalb artists are encouraged to help celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence with the creation of special Paint-A-Plugs, while past Paint-A-Plug artists are encouraged to touch up their works of art.

The City of DeKalb and its Citizens’ Community Enhancement Commission (CCEC) have opened the application period for the 2025 Paint-A-Plug program. Paint-A-Plug is the City’s longstanding public arts initiative inviting artists of all levels of expertise to paint a fire hydrant and transform it into a work of art.

250th Anniversary

This year’s Paint-A-Plug program coincides with preparations for Illinois America 250, the state’s campaign to mark America’s Semiquincentennial in 2026. As the nation, state and City celebrate 250 years of independence, CCEC Chair Brad Hoey said Paint-A-Plug artists are encouraged to use the nation’s birthday as the theme for Paint-A-Plug creations.

“I am excited that we are able to integrate the Paint-A-Plug program within DeKalb’s plans to celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence,” said Hoey. “Our community’s namesake – Baron de Kalb – was a hero of the American Revolutionary War, and I hope local artists will embrace the opportunity to apply historical and/or patriotic themes to their public art projects over the next year.”

Some theme ideas include patriotism, independence, historic figures and achievements and celebrations of the nation’s rich cultural heritage.

Incorporation of a semiquincentennial theme is not a requirement to participate in Paint-A-Plug. As in previous year’s, community members are welcome to submit designs using any theme that helps beautify DeKalb.

While no fee is required to participate in the Paint-A-Plug program, approved artists are responsible for providing their own materials for painting. Helen’s Hair Designs and Spa has donated $50 gift cards to Gordon Hardware to be given to the first five artists to have Paint-A-Plug designs approved for 2025. The gift cards will help the artists purchase paint and other supplies to transform their hydrants. Gift cards are limited to one per household. 

Paint-A-Plug is not limited to only DeKalb residents. The CCEC encourages NIU students and alumni, DeKalb School District students and faculty, employees of DeKalb businesses and area artists to participate.

Questions on the program can be e-mailed to paintaplug@cityofdekalb.com. This program is partially supported by a grant from the Illinois Arts Council.

Touch Ups

Paint-A-Plug started in 2017, and with the passage of time, some of the earliest painted hydrants are beginning to show their age as colors fade and paint chips away. The artists behind these hydrants are encouraged to check on the condition of their artwork and, if needed, contact the City at paintaplug@cityofdekalb.com to arrange a time to touch up the hydrant. Unfortunately, hydrants that are not maintained must be return to their original red color.

How Paint-a-Plug works

Step 1: Download an application and design proposal. 

Step 2: Fill out your application and design proposal and email it to paintaplug@cityofdekalb.com

Step 3: The CCEC and Fire Department will review and notify applicants (with greater detail) of approval or denial.

Step 4: If approved, you will be expected to paint your designated hydrant between April 1 and November 1.

Step 5: When done painting your hydrant, take a picture of your art, email your picture to paintaplug@cityofdekalb.com and share it on social media using #ProudlyDeKalb.

Step 6: Check in on your art throughout the year; if it needs a touch up, please inform the City you will be maintaining your hydrant and do so.