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San Francisco: First Thursday Art Walk

by Mary Jo Manzanares on June 29th, 2006

If you’ll be in San Francisco next Thursday, here’s something that you may want to check out:  “First Thursdays,” the city’s monthly art walk.

The First Thursday tradition started a couple of decades ago, as both a way to support the city’s art “scene” and to socialize.  The galleries stay open late, usually till 8 pm, allowing not only tourists to stop by, but also those who work day jobs and can’t get away from the office before the galleries close.

Today’s version of First Thursday is pretty much the same.  The art galleries involved are around Union Square, so it’s an easy walking tour.  You’ll have the opportunity to view art, meet the artists, and also enjoy free canapés and beverages.

Most people start at 49 Geary, an office building type location, where a good number of galleries are located.  By starting at the top floor, and working your way down, you can avoid much of the elevator crowd waiting to go up.  And there will be a crowd ““ free food and drinks are bound to bring out even casual art fans.

I’ve always loved wandering the galleries of San Francisco, and have been to several First Thursdays.  I have a piece hanging on my wall right now that was spied in one of the area galleries.  Check it out for yourself:  you’ll find art to appeal to most tastes, and in all price ranges.

Photo credit:  flickr

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