








It’s summertime, and the Southern California streets are alive with artwork.
If you’re looking for a new and more creative way to enjoy the summer season, consider visiting some of the local art walks. Many feature open exhibits, live entertainment and vendors showcasing their work. The best part is that most of these events are free and open to all ages.
Here are 10 art walks to visit throughout Southern California. For the most up-to-date information, be sure to visit each of their websites.
San Pedro Art Walk
Art studios host an open studio night at this event. Art enthusiasts can visit many downtown galleries, studios and shops for an evening of receptions and other events complemented by live music, food trucks and other local restaurant favorites. You can park in a city lot and use the free red trolley to get the full downtown San Pedro experience. You can find a map of the galleries taking part on the art walk’s website.
When: 6-9 p.m. every first Thursday of the month
Where: 300-400 W. Seventh St., San Pedro
Information: 1stthursday.net
Downtown Santa Ana Artwalk
This monthly event started in 1999. It’s a product of The Frida Cinema, a downtown art house destination offering special screenings and events. The walk shows the vibrant creative side of Orange County with local artists, 20 galleries and museums, live music and performance art.
When: 6-10 p.m. every first Saturday of the month
Where: 125 N. Broadway, Santa Ana
Information: dtsaartwalk.org
Downtown Fullerton Art Walk
The latest exhibits, music acts and performance art can be found at this event, in which over 30 venues take part within walking distance of each other. One exhibit this month is “Punk OC, From the Streets of Suburbia,” which documents the history of punk rock in Orange County. Each venue also offers maps for a self-guided tour, and some shops have complimentary refreshments.
When: 6-10 p.m. every first Friday of the month
Where: 223 W. Santa Fe Ave., Fullerton
Information: instagram.com/fullertonartwalk
Riverside Artswalk
This monthly community event celebrates the diversity of arts and culture in Riverside and the Inland Empire. Art lovers can visit over 22 downtown locations, including museums, galleries and studios, with a mix of visual and performing arts. This event also features local musicians. In downtown Riverside, visitors can find some of the best dining and shopping spots in the city.
When: 6-9 p.m. every first Thursday of the month
Where: 3535 University Ave., Riverside
Information: riversideartscouncil.com
Palm Springs Backstreet Art District
Although it’s not as large as the city’s Villagefest, which happens every first Thursday, the Palm Springs Backstreet Art District’s event maintains a sharp focus on art. Studios often have artists crafting their work in real time, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the creators’ process. Visitors are invited to stroll through a dozen artist-owned galleries and studios that feature contemporary collections. The Backstreet Art District showcases a diverse range of forms, including paintings, sculptures, photography, jewelry and ceramics as well as the performing arts, with some pieces produced by nationally and internationally recognized artists.
When: 5-8 p.m. every first Wednesday of the month
Where: 2600 S. Cherokee Way, Palm Springs
Information: backstreetartdistrict.com
First Thursdays Art Walk — Laguna Beach
Laguna Beach keeps its creative spirit alive throughout the year. This free event showcases the city’s vibrant art scene by featuring local galleries that open their doors for an evening of exhibitions, artist meet-and-greets and community connections. The walk is supported by local institutions and businesses, reflecting the town’s deep-seated commitment to the arts.
When: 6-9 p.m. every first Thursday
Where: Various locations throughout Laguna Beach
Information: firstthursdaysartwalk.org
DTLA ArtNight
Downtown Los Angeles comes alive during this art walk that brings together over 30 galleries and creative spaces. The event highlights work from both local and international artists across a variety of mediums. It’s part of a larger effort to energize the neighborhood through culture, connection and community.
When: 6-10 p.m. every first Thursday of the month.
Where: Start at Emerging Gallery, 125 W. Fourth St., Los Angeles
Information: dtlaartnight.com
El Segundo Art Walk
For one summer Saturday, the streets of El Segundo will turn into a creative hub as more than 40 local businesses open their doors for this art walk. The self-guided event gives visitors a chance to explore studio spaces and see original work from L.A.-based artists in pop-up galleries throughout downtown El Segundo and the Smoky Hollow district. You’ll also find food trucks, live music and more throughout the day.
When: 3-9 p.m. Aug. 23
Where: Downtown El Segundo and Smoky Hollow
Information: esaartwalk.com
Pomona Art Walk
This celebration of art and culture features gallery exhibitions, a night market packed with food vendors, live music and plenty of local businesses showing off creative work. The event also includes kid-friendly activities, making it a solid pick for families looking to explore the arts together.
When: 5-10 p.m. every second Saturday of the month
Where: 197 W. Second St., Pomona.
Information: downtown pomona.org
Downtown Long Beach Art + Design Walk
This quarterly event turns the neighborhood into an open-air gallery. From pop-up exhibitions and public art installations to live performances and workshops, the walk showcases creativity in many forms. It’s a chance to meet local artists, shop from makers, and experience the culture that shapes Long Beach’s diverse community.
When: 2-7 p.m. Saturday
Where: 200 Pine Ave., Long Beach
Information: downtownlongbeach.org