Sip, stroll and explore: Art After Dark returns Feb. 6

Every first Friday of the month, as the sun sets behind the hills of San Luis Obispo, a lofty congregation of local art enthusiasts gather to appreciate various collections and exhibits that the community has to offer through Art After Dark, put on by SLO County Arts. 

Starting at 5 p.m., an array of local galleries, restaurants, cafes and other small shops invite participants to browse and potentially take home selected art on display. Guests are encouraged to unwind with a drink and occasional live music as they make their stops at each venue. 

The Bunker SLO is participating in the month of February, alongside small businesses such as JunkGirls, Linnaea’s Cafe and HumanKind Fair Trade.

“Art After Dark allows any business and all types of people from any walk of life to be exposed to art,” Missy Reitner-Cameron said, owner of The Bunker SLO. 

The event is structured as a self-guided walking tour, which leaves the trajectory of the night completely up to the individual. Each venue has something different to offer, so spending the time to figure out where to stop and in which order to do so can be half of the fun for attendees. 

A dozen locations are hosting this February, mostly scattered about downtown with the exception of a few venues branching towards Orcutt Road and Broad Street. The overall walkability of the event and warm crowd makes for an easy going, laid back atmosphere.

For those interested in art, connecting with the community or are looking for something to do this Friday evening, this month’s Art After Dark will take place on Feb 6.