Beyond the urban nightlife of Las Vegas city streets and downtown gambling, lies a world that celebrates art and beauty. At the famous 18b Art District one can experience the real culture and custom of this legendry town. The district is a main attraction of Downtown Las Vegas for both the locals as well as outsiders. As the name goes, the place features art and entertainment at its best. In the beginning, the district stretched about 18 blocks that fall across Main Street near Charleston Boulevard to Hoover Avenue. Now it has further extended to places around Commerce Street and Fourth Street.
The Art District came to be known as a result of markets that developed around merchandized art forms rendered in this region. Hundreds of art galleries and exhibitions, street shows, antique stores and art supplies dominate the area. Tourists, art lovers, art collectors, and artists frequent this part of Downtown either to shop for exquisite artworks or to simply savor the sight of artistic delights. It is known for its splendid street fair with numerous fast food stalls and barbeques. Its streets crowd up with shoppers, day-trippers and travelers during every occasion and event in Las Vegas. The art fairs and festivals conducted in here bring about thousands of visitors from in and around the city. It is the most colorful spot in Las Vegas where anyone can have a great time with their friends or families without having to spend a fortune at luxury hotels or casinos.
Several cultural groups and societies in the state including the American Institute of Graphic Art have recognized the place and have been partaking in its development. Since October 2002, the authorities declared every First Friday to be celebrated as a grand party across the entire 18 blocks of the Art District. Since this initiation, the popularity of Art District grew beyond the state boundaries. Artists from all over United States reach here to display their talents. Thousands of artists send their works of fine arts and paintings to be selected for exhibitions. The art shows and sales go on till 10 pm in the night but the festivities and partying continues past midnight. Besides the art, the street performances of magic shows and dancers can enchant you beyond your imagination.
It is a grand venue for socializing and meeting new friends and also shopping for designer accessories or paintings at great prices. You can participate and enjoy the First Friday block parties for free but for entering the spot a nominal fee of 2 dollars is levied. It is a cultural event that implores the soul of Las Vegas and is organized in coordination with the city’s Office of Cultural Affairs.
Art District also houses the famous Art Factory which is a distinguished center for all sorts of artistic relishes ranging from modern art paintings and photography to yoga and dance.
