Watch CBS News

Guide to Art Walks in the Sacramento Region

By Linda J. Bottjer 

Moveable feasts of art can be found in and around Sacramento at monthly and seasonal art walks. Galleries and businesses, filled with artistic endeavors of professionals and amateurs, invite aficionados and the uninformed to wander, wonder and buy. All events are suitable for families, however at some venues alcohol is readily available. As the evening progresses so can rowdiness.

9/26 Arts & Culture - Art Walks - Second Saturday
(credit: Midtown Business Association)

Second Saturday in Sacramento

Second Saturday of every month year-round
Midtown (Borders J to R Streets North to South and 16th Street to 30th Street West to East)
Hours: Daily 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Free admission

Organic best describes this never officially organized art walk that attracts avant-garde seekers to suburban families armed with strollers and pacifiers. The Zanzibar Tribal Arts Gallery (18th and L) is a flagship venue offering global handicrafts and sage advice on how to best experience the event attended by 200 artists. Comfortable shoes are a must!

Art expands beyond mediums of paint, pastels and sculpture to include poetry readings, performance art and live music. And good news for foodies—being the heart of downtown Sac's dining area, many restaurants and bars offer Second Saturday specials.

Revolution Wines and Bistro (29th and S Streets) often combines an artist's reception with music and wine tastings. The tasting fee is refundable with bottled wine purchase.

Unofficially, July's Second Saturday is Zombie Month – so stroll with the alive, undead and unsure. Parking is at a premium. Closest to the action is the East End Garage (17th Street between L Street and Capitol Avenue).

9/26 Arts & Culture - Art Walks - Third Saturday Placerville
(credit: Placerville Downtown Association)

Third Saturday in Placerville
Third Saturday of every month year-round
Main Street in Placerville
Hours: 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Free admission
(530) 672-3436

www.placerville-downtown.org/ThirdSaturdayNight.html

 

Since the Gold Rush people have flocked to Placerville for treasures. Typically over 100 artists are showcased along historic Main Street. The start is at the El Dorado Arts Council (459 Main Street) to get the lowdown on Third Saturday's highlights and view members' talents.

Find Sierra Foothills' artists at the Gold County Artists Galleries (379 Main Street) while local wine is

celebrated among a myriad of art mediums inside the Fusion Gallery and Findleton Wine Tasting (440 Main Street). Wining increases in October when annual Placerville Downtown Association's Art and Wine Festival occur simultaneously and at the same location. The latter, featuring over 35 wineries, requires a ticket.

9/26 Arts & Culture - Art Walks - Blue Line Gallery
(credit: Blue Line Gallery/rosevillearts.org)

Third Saturday in Roseville
Third Saturday of every month year-round
Downtown Roseville
Hours: 5 p.m.-9 p.m.
Free admission
www.3rdsatartwalk.com

Downtown Roseville blooms through an average of 50 local and national artists. Seek inspiration at the contemporary exhibits shown at 22 So. Grant Gallery (22 S. Grant) or the Blue Line Gallery (405 Vernon Street). Non-traditional art facilities are transformed by displaying art salon style (running up walls) or gallery style (at eye level).

9/26 Arts & Culture - Art Walks - ArtAbout in Davis
(credit: Camille Shea Lichter/Davis Downtown Business Association)

2nd Friday ArtAbout in Davis

Second Friday of every month year-round Downtown Davis (between 2nd and 4th Streets and A to G Streets)
Hours 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Free Admission
(530) 756-8763
www.davisdowntown.com/events/2nd-friday-artabout

 

Davis' normally heightened vibe ramps up with ArtAbout. Plot your art hunt by grabbing a free map at The Artery (207 G Street) among other venues or just follow your sense of adventure. Most venues hold receptions for local artists, and it is not unusual for musicians to stroll off the street to play an impromptu concert.

(Photo Use Permission Granted by Photographer)
9/26 Arts & Culture - Art Walks - Auburn Art Walks
(credit: Karen Killebrew)

Auburn Art Walk
Downtown and Old Town Districts
Hours: 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Free admission
(530) 885-5670
www.placerarts.org/artwalk/index.php

 

Four times annually art lovers flock to Auburn, board the free shuttle bus and travel the rolling hills between the distinctive downtown and Old Town neighborhoods. Begin at Placer Art's Gallery (808 Lincoln Way) to view its own gallery and pick up an exhibit map. A festival attitude prevails as some venues offer live music and refreshments – like local wines. Artists' works remain in galleries for two months so you can return to purchase them.

Linda Bottjer is a full-time writer and part-time artist. Her work can be found at Words 4 Sail. 
View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.