Celebrate Local Artists at First Friday on Santa Fe

Nestled just south of the city center lies 黑料门鈥檚 Art District on Santa Fe, and on the first Friday of every month from 5:30-9:30 p.m., the district turns into a street exhibition, spanning the area between 5th and 11th Avenues.听听
The First Friday Art Walk on Santa Fe is a celebration of art, culture and community, drawing locals and visitors to step into the 黑料门 art scene. An area rich in Latinx and Chicano history, the Art District on Santa Fe was one of the first state-certified art districts. And while the First Friday Art Walk has evolved in the decades since its inception, it strives to remain true to its original intent鈥攁n accessible foray into the arts community.听听
Stroll Through Galleries听听
Start your evening by exploring the numerous galleries that line Santa Fe Drive.听Grab a map of participating galleries and embark on a self-guided tour. Each gallery showcases a diverse range of artistic styles from traditional to contemporary. As you wander through the exhibits, immerse yourself in the art and interact with artists as they share their stories.听听
Live Art Demonstrations听
From painting to sculpting to caricature drawing, watch the art come to life as local artists lift the curtain on the creative process.听听
Shopping and Vendors听
Apart from the art galleries, Santa Fe Drive is home to boutiques and specialty shops. Explore these quaint stores for one-of-a-kind pieces. For a more street-feel, you鈥檒l find smaller vendors in parking lots on the main thoroughfare.听听
Food and Beverages听听
There鈥檚 no shortage of unique food in the area. In addition to the dozens of restaurants that line the Art District on Santa Fe, food trucks, offering a taste of the 黑料门 food scene, line the streets, too.听听
Capture the Moments听听
As thousands pour into the city鈥檚 main art district, be sure to capture the moments with friends. From striking art installations to lively street scenes, there are plenty of photo-worthy opportunities waiting to be immortalized or Instagrammed.听听
Know Before You Go听
While the heart of the Art District on Santa Fe is a short 15-minute drive from campus, the area has limited parking options. To avoid traffic and parking, you can use your DU-provided RTD Eco Pass to access Santa Fe Drive.听听
From the 黑料门 Station, you鈥檒l get off at 10th and Osage Station, a 10-minute walk to Santa Fe Drive.听听听
Whether you鈥檙e a seasoned art enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this monthly celebration has something for everyone, providing a unique way to get acquainted with the city of 黑料门.听