The Riverside Arts Council has partnered with the city of Riverside and Festival of Lights to offer a second ArtsWalk in December on Thursday, Dec. 18, from 5 to 10 p.m., starting under the breezeway at City Hall and moving toward University Avenue.
For those who thrive on last-minute holiday shopping panic, the traditional first Thursday ArtsWalk on Dec. 4 was just too early. This second December event gives procrastinators a chance to support local artists and makers with less than a week until Christmas.
"ArtsWalk brings Riverside to life, giving our local artists a place to shine, share their stories, and sell the work," said Rachael Dzikonski, executive director of Riverside Arts Council. "Every month, it creates a space where neighbors can connect, discover something new, and feel the energy of our creative community. It's a reminder of how art brings us together and how much joy we find when we show up for one another."
Thursday's Merry ArtsWalk 2025 includes:
• Birds of Prey presentations with photo opportunities at City Hall Block. Visitors can get up close with owls, hawks and other raptors while learning about these impressive animals.
• Dog adoptions from 4 to 7 p.m. at City Hall Block through the city of Riverside Animal Shelter. Families looking to add a four-legged friend to their holiday celebrations can meet adoptable dogs and learn about the adoption process.
• SALT Studios dance bingo at City Hall Block. The community dance studio will offer interactive dance bingo sessions combining movement and games.
• Christmas ornament making at City Hall Block. Families can create handmade ornaments to take home or give as gifts.
Live music on the Mission Stage featuring five local bands:
• 5 p.m. - Riverside Concert Band
• 6 p.m. - BRIN
• 7 p.m. - Just Electric
• 8 p.m. - Epoche
• 9 p.m. - The Good Daze
Local galleries including Division 9, RCAA, PAIN SUGAR and Urge Palette will be open during the walk. The Blue Door gift shop at Riverside Art Museum and La Tiendita at the Cheech are free to browse and will be open Thursday night.
Shopping local and supporting local artists during the holidays makes sense. It beats the gift card trap, creates unique gifting opportunities and puts money directly into the hands of the maker.
Lifelong friends bring "60 Miles East" to Riverside Art Museum, celebrating the city's hardcore, punk and ska scenes from the late 1980s to early 2000s.
