By Roel Godinez
The Oceanside First Friday Art Walk is a monthly event that takes place, as the name states, on the first Friday of every month from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Rather than being a localized event, the Art Walk’s many points of interest are spread out across Mission Avenue, Coast Highway, and Pier View Way.
This allows walkers to explore downtown Oceanside while also enjoying the many art and music displays that are presented.
The walk begins in Artist’s Alley, a small walkway tucked between South Freeman Street and a strip of stores that runs along Coast Highway. This area most perfectly captures the essence of the Art Walk. Local artists fill the area selling everything from paintings and drawings to ceramics, sculptures, and handmade jewelry. This month, a drum circle gathered in the alley, allowing passerbyers to give the drums an attempt. Amazing virtual reality demos were offered that provided an other worldly experience.
Artist Alley
After Artist’s Alley, the spirit of adventure runs free through the streets. Live music was plentiful with genres such as jazz, rock, and classical. These musicians were strategically placed near some of Oceanside’s most tantalizing restaurants. Wine and beer were also available within the many bars and breweries.
The library and the adjacent museum were major participants in Art Walk. A display of photos of Native American culture were displayed around the Oceanside Public Library. The Oceanside Museum of Art welcomed visitors free of charge for the evening. It featured a special presentation entitled David Fokos: The Book Pages Project by a professional artist who finds beauty and meaning in the folds of paper. David Fokos could be found on the second floor of the museum speaking about his latest work. He described the museum as professional and generous.
The Oceanside Art Walk is a free event that should not be missed. It is a great way to spend a Friday night with friends and family. Not only is it free, it’s also a pleasant way to become familiar with downtown Oceanside and the people who live in it. Put on your calendar for next month August 3rd.
