First Friday Art Walks in Colorado Resort Towns

Experience the First Friday Art Walks in many of Colorado's eccentric communities. These resort towns are full of “artsy” people, and local art is often found in galleries and various establishments throughout these towns. Local music scenes are also thriving and can be heard in pubs, events, and other happenings such as art walks!

Many of Colorado’s popular communities often participate in “The First Friday Art Walk.” And yes, that means these communities put together an Art Walk on the first Friday of every month throughout the summer season. Some even go year-round.

These fun social events combine a mix of art and culture in lively downtown locations. Whether you are visiting or live in one of these communities, these artsy events engage on many levels.

Art Walks are a chance to browse various downtown establishments, see exhibits, and visit retailers.
Listen to local music and experience visual arts at the same time.
Have a few gratis refreshments and spend time chatting and meeting new people.
It’s a chance to experience the local culture up close and personal, meet the artists, and understand their inspiration and process.
Meet other art lovers, connect with locals and visitors, and enjoy an authentic community experience.
You can even buy something special.

Popular First Friday Art Walks in Colorado

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore local art scenes, meet artists, and enjoy live entertainment. Here’s the list of First Friday Art Walks in some of Colorado’s communities:

Silverthorne

Silverthorne's First Friday Art Walk is a vibrant community event that showcases local artists, musicians, and culinary offerings. Each month, different themes and activities are featured, reflecting the town's commitment to arts and culture.

Steamboat Springs

On the first Friday of each month, downtown Steamboat Springs hosts a free, self-guided tour of local art galleries, museums, and alternative venues. Many establishments feature changing exhibits, live music, artist talks, and refreshments, making each month's Art Walk unique.

Old Colorado City (Colorado Springs) (beginning in April)

Beginning in April and running through December, Old Colorado City hosts First Friday Art Walks in its historic district. These events provide access to local art galleries and studios. Visitors can explore boutiques and shops, many of which provide special offers during the event. Numerous restaurants and eateries also participate, some featuring live music, enhancing the overall festive atmosphere.

Denver's Art District on Santa Fe (Year-round)

While not a resort town, Denver's Art District on Santa Fe offers one of the most renowned First Friday Art Walks in the state. The district features numerous galleries, studios, and creative businesses, with events drawing significant attendance, especially during summer months.

RiNo (River North) Art District (beginning April 4th)

The RiNo First Friday Art Walk in Denver’s River North (RiNo) Art District is a vibrant, eclectic experience that showcases the neighborhood’s creative energy. Here’s what you can expect:

An immersive art experience with open studios, galleries, and pop-up exhibits with upcoming and established artists.
Street art and murals. Plus, interactive art demonstrations and live painting sessions.
Live music and entertainment. Poetry readings, spoken word performances, and performing arts.
Food trucks serving local bites, breweries, wineries and distilleries offering tastings or drink deals.
Local market “pop-ups” selling local handmade jewelry, ceramics, prints, and other unique goods.

NoBo Art District (Boulder)

Every first Friday of the month, Boulder's NoBo Art District invites visitors for self-guided tours of artist studios and galleries, offering insights into the creative processes of local artists. NoBo Art District also hosts Second Saturdays, offering a quieter daytime alternative. These events feature local artists, food vendors, musicians, and free family-friendly activities, providing a diverse cultural experience.

Downtown Fort Collins (Year-round)

The Downtown Fort Collins First Friday Art Walk is a self-guided, monthly event that transforms the city’s charming Old Town into a vibrant hub of art, culture, and entertainment. Here’s what you will find:

Diverse art exhibits, open galleries, and local shops showcasing artwork.
Art mediums include original paintings, photography, sculpture, mixed media, fiber arts, ceramics, and more.
Venues that feature live art demonstrations and meet-the-artist events.
Street performances, live music, and interactive performances.
Unique shopping and art markets with various handmade wares available.
Specialty drinks and food trucks.

Niwot (March, June, July, Aug, Sep, Dec)

The First Friday Art Walk in Niwot, Colorado, is a charming and intimate monthly event that blends local art, live music, boutique shopping, and community spirit in a small-town setting. Here’s what you can expect:

Local galleries and businesses open their doors to showcase paintings, sculptures, ceramics, jewelry, and mixed-media art by regional artists.
Often, there are live demonstrations and meet-and-greet artist opportunities.
Street performances and live music are ongoing.
Local shops and artisan vendors.
Local food, wine, and craft beer.

Pueblo (Year-round)

The First Friday Art Walk in Pueblo, Colorado, is a vibrant monthly event that showcases the city’s growing arts scene. It blends gallery exhibitions, live music, street performances, and local culture in a lively, walkable setting.

Take a Break and Visit a First Friday Art Walk in one of Colorado’s Eclectic Communities.

Attending a local First Friday Art Walk is an enjoyable way to spend a Friday evening if you are nearby or in one of these locations. All of these Art Walks are unique; however, they are simar in that you will get to experience the local culture through the visual arts, watch and even participate in performing arts, listen to great local music, eat local foods, check out wines and craft beers, and meet new and old friends for a good time. Shop for unique handmade art, crafts, and wares for someone special or yourself. These walks are not just in engaging communities but are set in vibrant locations that embrace the spirit of the mountain lifestyle. They are a great way to get a charge on your inspiration, engage on levels you might not normally consider, and meet new people. First Friday Art Walks are a must-do.

by Kathleen Fitzsimmons