Celebrate Downtown Phoenix and the beginning of arts season with Artlink Inc. and Mayor Greg Stanton at the second annual Art d’Core Gala Feb. 21 at 6 p.m.
At this free festive affair, held at Crescent Ballroom over cocktails, the mayor will give his Celebrate Downtown Address, which is downtown’s hipper, more laid-back version of the State of the City.
In addition to a live performance by Phoenix Theatre, music, dancing and a speech by the mayor, it also kicks off Art Detour 27 — one of the biggest and longest-running art events in the city.
Developed by Beatrice Moore and Tony Zahn 27 years ago, Art Detour launched as a daytime community celebration of Phoenix creatives and the colorful places they work and live.
After March First Friday, the two-day tour — which runs March 7 and 8 — provides a rare glimpse inside working artists’ private studios, standing galleries, pop-up shops and unique art spaces.
Free guided trolley tours and maps of Roosevelt Row, Grand Avenue and other downtown locations will be provided.
Mark your calendars:
Art d’Core Gala is from 6 to 10 p.m. Feb. 21. Located at Crescent Ballroom, 308 N. Second Avenue, admission is free but please RSVP if you’d like to attend. Creative formal attire is encouraged.
March First Friday is 6 to 10 p.m. March 6. Located throughout downtown and central Phoenix, it’s typically one of the most popular First Fridays of the year.
Art Detour 27 is from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 7 and 8. This free weekend event offers art tours and programming appropriate for all ages, including a family-friendly “Kids’ Detour” at select venues.