First Wednesday Art Walk
The First Wednesday of Each Month from 5-9 p.m. in Downtown Jacksonville
Downtown Vision has proudly hosted the First Wednesday Art Walk since 2003 to welcome people to DTJax and to celebrate Jacksonville’s creative talent. Having recently celebrated 20 years, Art Walk has been a long-standing monthly event which has attracted over half a million visitors to Downtown Jacksonville.
We invite you to bring your family, friends and coworkers for a self-guided tour of Downtown’s Northbank core on the first Wednesday of every month, rain or shine. Explore James Weldon Johnson Park, and all the businesses and public art in between.
Next Art Walk: May 1, 2024
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May 1st Programming and Activations:
Theme: Asian Pacific Islander Month
- Bellwether: Enjoy dinner and drinks to the sounds of a jazz band on the sidewalk.
- Bold City Brewery: Check out live music on the sidewalk.
- Chamblin’s Uptown: Various vendors on Laura Street.
- Creative Exchange: Enjoy refreshments while shopping locally and exploring works by Jacksonville artists inside the gallery and on the Laura Street sidewalk.
- Hardwicks: Grab a drink, enjoy DJ sets and drag performances
- Hemming Plaza Jewelers: Come to Hemming Plaza Jewelers and participate in the raffle to win jewelry. Enjoy a live performance by Godiva on the sidewalk.
- Jacksonville Children’s Chorus: Stop by for a musical performance by Akia Uwanda and enjoy artworks inside by Keith Doles and Heather Blanton.
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Jacksonville Main Public Library – Check out the art exhibit, a Zinester Meetup from 6-8:30 p.m. on the first floor “zine zone,” and Game Night from 6-8 p.m.
- James Weldon Johnson Park: Food Trucks, Grooves by Kalani Rose, MyGym Fitness Kids Gym, Vendors and performances by fire dancers and the First Coast Lion Dance Troupe (FCLD). Finally, relax in the Luau Lounge.
- Justice Pub: Stand-Up Comedy Open Mic hosted by Flo Funny
- The Lark: Grab bites and drinks and enjoy the art exhibition.
- Mal Jones Lyricist Live: Open Mic for all ages.
- MOCA Jacksonville: Check out the free art activity for all ages inside and enjoy free admission from 5-9 p.m.
- Myth Element: Midweek Mixology at Element Bistro
- Ocean Street Tacos & Tequila: Grab dinner and drinks, enjoy the weekly night of Open Decks by “Wax & Whiskey Jax”
- Ruby Beach Brewing: Hit the Art Walk Afterparty with Silent Disco by Hushhushjax, and enjoy a brew and a meal from the resident food truck, The Hungry Owl
- Southlight Gallery: Admire springtime works by the Southlight collective and highlights by Mac Truque, from 5-8 p.m.
- Untitled Art Space: Visit the new pop-up Art Space featuring works by local artists at 112 Adams Street from 5-9 p.m.
- Visit Jacksonville: Take part in free watercolor lessons by Teresa Cook Art. Materials will be provided.
James Weldon Johnson Park
Every First Wednesday of the month, browse works by local artists, enjoy live music, and grab a bite to eat from the food trucks or a drink from the park’s biergarten.
Artists and food trucks in James Weldon Johnson Park must apply through Downtown Vision.
Special thank you to our friends, Friends of James Weldon Johnson Park!
MOCA Jacksonville
Located just steps away from the historic James Weldon Johnson Park in Downtown Jacksonville, is MOCA Jacksonville. Enjoy free admission, happy hour specials and engage in Made @ MOCA art-making activities tailored for creators of all ages every month during the First Wednesday Art Walk!
Special thanks to our friends, MOCA Jacksonville & The University of North Florida!
The Creative Exchange (CX 904)
Nestled within the Bank of America Tower’s lobby is one of Downtown’s newest art galleries and gift shop. Take a moment to explore a diverse collection of artworks or peruse a delightful array of locally sourced goods, ideal for the perfect gift.
Southlight Gallery
Located within the Wells Fargo building, lies one of Downtown’s oldest and most established galleries. Stop by each month to discover art in this beloved gallery.
Visit Jacksonville
Stop by our friends at Visit Jacksonville each month to discover more about the flip side of Florida! Shop with local vendors, indulge in tasting brews from local breweries located on the Ale Trail and more.
Special thanks to our friends at Visit Jacksonville!
The Lark
Situated in the heart of Downtown Jacksonville, the Lark is a stunning, historic loft exuding charm. This restored venue and gallery from the 1920s boasts enchanting wrap-around windows that offer picturesque views of James Weldon Johnson park. Be sure to visit during the First Wednesday Art Walk each month, where you can explore an array of vendors, savor delightful libations and immerse yourself in the latest gallery installation.
Special thanks to our friends at The Lark & Regard Libations!
The Main Public Library
Beyond its collection of books, the Main Public Library is a vibrant hub for the City of Jacksonville, teeming with cultural experiences! Drop by every month to engage with community partners, discover their ever-changing gallery exhibit and enjoy live music performances.
Special thanks to our friends, The Jacksonville Public Library!
- Are you an artist, performer or musician looking to perform at a Downtown venue? Fill out our Art Walk Performer Contact List so that businesses can reach out to you as they build their programming!
- Businesses, check out the results of the contact form and connect with local creatives to maximize your attendance on Art Walk days!
Public Art in Downtown
Downtown is filled with amazing murals, sculptures, mosaics and more. Check out the Cultural Council of Greater Jacksonville’s Public Art Map to learn more about the pieces.
Check Out Downtown Vision’s Other Events:
Jax River Jams
Free Spring Concert Series
Thursdays in April | Ford on Bay
Sip & Stroll Presented by PNC
Music, food and sunset views
Every Third Thursday | Southbank Riverwalk
#ArtWalkJax
Tag your photos #ArtWalkJax for a chance to be featured.
Sponsorship
Interested in sponsoring Art Walk? Please contact Phoebe Mullis, Events Manager at Phoebe@DTJax.org.
Accessibility
Art walk is centered around James Weldon Johnson Park, our home base, which is a fully wheelchair accessible 1.54acre public park in the heart of Downtown.
