While spring doesn’t officially hit the Valley of the Sun until Friday, March 20, the warm weather has been summoning Phoenicians outdoors since the beginning of the year. After all, one of the best parts about living in or visiting the area is all the outdoor activities and events that beckon residents and tourists to come out and play!

The Scottsdale Gallery Association’s weekly ArtWalk is one such example. Every Thursday, the Scottsdale Arts District comes to life with art enthusiasts, date-nighters, friend groups and families strolling through the galleries and shops on a beautiful evening in Scottsdale. In addition to weekly ArtWalks, the Scottsdale Gallery Association (SGA) presents several Gold Palette ArtWalks throughout the year, which offer additional entertainment, dedicated themes and extended hours.

March, for example, is themed Native Spirit. This annual Gold Palette ArtWalk, which takes place on Thursday, March 5, honors and recognizes the foundational Native American roots that contribute to Scottsdale’s past and the vibrant culture that continues to shape the city today.

During this event, many galleries showcase Native American artists and art exhibitions. For example, Wilde Meyer Gallery, an SGA member gallery, will present Native American-inspired art in a variety of styles and media, including works from artists such as Jim Nelson, Jeremy Serna, Kate Dardine and others. The gallery will also be offering light refreshments for guests as they peruse the gallery. The SGA will feature incredible entertainment throughout the district, including authentic Native hoop dancers and more.

While the Native Spirit ArtWalk takes place just once a year, SGA member Western Spirit: Scottsdale’s Museum of the West is dedicated to preserving Western and Native American heritage through informative events, programming, permanent exhibits and rotating shows all year long. It is open until 8 p.m. on ArtWalk Thursday and offers free admission for Scottsdale residents.

The SGA hosts another Gold Palette ArtWalk in April — this one dedicated to the season itself! Held on Thursday, April 9, the Celebrate Spring Gold Palette ArtWalk does just that. With a series of engagements and exhibitions that showcase all spring truly is through the eyes of world-renowned and local artists, the Celebrate Spring Gold Palette ArtWalk is the perfect opportunity to pay homage to the season while taking in some incredible art and entertainment.

Whether an art collector or enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun and free way to spend an evening out and about in beautiful Scottsdale, the Scottsdale Gallery Association’s weekly Thursday night ArtWalks and specialty Gold Palette ArtWalks are the answer! Learn more about the association and its upcoming events at https://scottsdalegalleries.com/.