Editor’s note: This guide was prepared October 2. That evening’s Art Trail has concluded; the next trail is November 6.

One of Lubbock’s most reliable Friday-night traditions returns tonight, October 2, as the First Friday Art Trail spreads across the Cultural District and surrounding downtown venues.

The monthly event runs from 6 to 9 p.m., rain or shine, and admission is free. Organized by the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts, the Art Trail brings together galleries, museums, studios, local businesses, musicians, food vendors and artists for a self-guided evening across downtown Lubbock.

You Don’t Need to Be an “Art Person”

That may be one of the best things about First Friday.

The event works just as well for someone who collects original art as it does for someone who simply wants somewhere different to go for dinner, live music and a walk around downtown.

Participating locations regularly include LHUCA, the Buddy Holly Center, Charles Adams Gallery and other Cultural District galleries and businesses. Artists, musicians and vendors change from month to month, so the experience is rarely exactly the same twice.

At LHUCA itself, current exhibitions include Yu Yan’s “What Remains?” in the John F. Lott Gallery and Elena Masrour’s “Waking Up Was the Worst Idea?!” in Martin McDonald Hall. Both exhibitions continue through October 31.

Leave the Car Parked and Take the Trolley

One feature that makes the Art Trail easier than many downtown events is its free trolley system.

Visitors can walk the trail or use the trolleys to move among participating areas. Visit Lubbock lists trolley service from approximately 6:15 to 9:15 p.m., with stops connecting the Buddy Holly Hall/Civic Center area, Main Street, the Buddy Holly Center and the Texas Avenue area. Because routes can change, LHUCA recommends checking the current First Friday map before heading out.

That makes it possible to park once and explore several parts of downtown without repeatedly moving the car.

Make an Evening of It

Food trucks are part of the experience, and the Cultural District calendar shows additional live music and entertainment happening nearby tonight.

The trail itself is free, although food, beverages and artwork are purchased separately. Visitors should also expect portions of the evening to be outdoors and dress accordingly. Visit Lubbock notes that dogs are welcome on the trail, although individual indoor locations may have their own restrictions.

For someone who has lived in Lubbock for years but rarely ventures into the galleries and studios north and east of downtown, First Friday is also an easy reminder that there is more happening in the Hub City than many of us see during the normal workweek.

And because it happens every month, there is no pressure to see everything.

Pick a few stops, listen to some music, meet an artist, grab something to eat and wander.

First Friday Art Trail Tonight — Friday, October 2 6–9 p.m. Primary hub: LHUCA, 511 Avenue K Admission: Free