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: April 3, 2024

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Tag us at #ArtWalkJax

April 3rd Programming and Activations:

This month, we’re partnering with Hope at Hand and ACPS in celebration of April’s theme of Poetry & Pups. We invite you to donate and drop off pet supplies for the ACPS at our “I Love Art Walk” tent during the event. Click here for the full list of supplies needed!

  • Bellwether: Enjoy dinner and drinks to the sounds of a jazz band on the sidewalk. 
  • Bold City Brewery: Live performance by Jay Peele from 6-9 p.m.
  • Chamblin’s Uptown: Various vendors on Laura Street
  • Creative Exchange: Enjoy refreshments while shopping local and exploring works by Jacksonville artists inside the gallery and on Laura Street sidewalk. Writer Jeff Whipple, who recently released his latest memoir, will be hosting a book signing at The Creative Exchange during Art Walk.
  • The Florida Theatre: Grab tickets to country music star, Ashley McBryde’s “The Devil I Know” Tour show
  • Hardwicks: Grab a drink, enjoy DJ sets and drag performances
  • Hemming Plaza Jewelers: Come to Hemming Plaza Jewelers for an art and jewelry giveaway and live performance by Godiva. Raffle draw will be at 8:30 p.m.
  • Jacksonville Children’s Chorus: Stop by for a musical performance by Shayla Nelson, commission a pet portrait by Joyanne Goronal, and enjoy artworks inside by Keith Doles and Heather Blanton.
  • Jacksonville Main Public Library –  Enjoy performances by poets in front of the library. Also, 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, Tunes by DJ Mr. Al Pete, MyGym Fitness Kids Gym, Vendors, and relax in the “The Language Lounge”
  • Justice Pub: Stand Up Comedy Open Mic hosted by Flo Funny
  • The Lark: Check out the comedy show by Mike Freed and Spike Yoder and enjoy the new art exhibition by Christine Knize.
  • MOCA Jacksonville: Check out the free all ages art activity inside and enjoy free admission from 5-9 p.m. 
  • Myth Element: Midweek Mixology at Element Bistro
  • Ocean Street Tacos & Tequila: Enjoy DJ sets by Dr. Um DJ during Wax & Whiskey Jax for a weekly night of ‘open decks’
  • Ruby Beach Brewing: Hit the Art Walk Afterparty with Silent Disco by Hushhushjax, and enjoy a brew and a meal from 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 Cole Collier and Nicolas Mote 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

135 W. Monroe Street

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

333 North Laura Street

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)

50 North Laura Street

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 

1 Independent Drive

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

100 North Laura Street

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

229 North Hogan Street

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

303 North Laura Street

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.

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