History of Choochokam

Choochokam Arts, as an organization, has taken a few twists and turns over the past four decades. The one thing that hasn't changed is the community's perspective on celebrating Langley's rich arts history. Drawing in close to 16,000 people each year, Choochokam has become a community celebration through the many exhibitors that line our streets to the incredible musicians that play our stages.

Active in Langley since 1975, in 2010, Choochokam Arts took a new direction and entered into a strategic partnership with the Langley Chamber of Commerce, but in 2013 the Langley Chamber of Commerce and Choochokam board members agreed to that the Choochokam Arts Festival needed to be an entity in its own right again, and in spring of 2013 Choochokam Arts Foundation was founded to contain the Festival and to provide arts programming and support for the Whidbey Island arts programs year round.

Choochokam Arts Foundation is currently run by a Board of Directors. Celia Black, current Board President, has worked with Choochokam for more than 8 years.

Mission

In 2007, the nonprofit organization, Choochokam Arts, was created. Our mission is to create an organization that reflects the richness of Langley's artistic community and encourages participation in this local celebration. Today, Choochokam Arts is an official committee under the umbrella of the Langley Chamber of Commerce.

The City of Langley sees Choochokam Arts as a key element in it's Comprehensive Plan focus on Arts, Culture and Education. The City has been a strong supporter and partner with Choochokam Arts since it was reorganized in 2007.