In Bend’s Old Mill District, art is at the heart of it all.
Welcome October with First Friday Art Walk festivities on Friday, Oct. 2, from 3 to 6 p.m.
(Last updated 9.29.26)
Come down to the Old Mill District to explore the work of local artists with a wide variety of styles and stories.
On Friday, Oct. 2, from 3 to 6 p.m., join Tumalo Art Co., Lubbesmeyer Art Studio & Gallery, The Stacks Art Studios & Gallery, and other Old Mill District businesses who are opening their doors to celebrate local artists, makers, and creatives. Meet the people behind the work and explore an incredible mix of art, including paintings, sculpture, photography, jewelry, ceramics, hand-turned wood, mixed media, and more.
Participants can enjoy art from across Central Oregon, along with offerings from participating shops and studios featuring wine samples courtesy of Va Piano Vineyards Wine and Champagne Bar. Guests can also enjoy special offerings like a Sunday Pot Roast Spice & Easy with a side of some Black Garlic Scalloped Potatoes from Matt Perry and his team at Top Hat Spice Shop. The edible additions complement the creative ambiance, enriching the experience as walkers explore the depths of the regional art on display!
Tumalo Art Co. presents “Full Spectrum,” an installation-style group exhibit featuring nine artists and nine colors to create a visual rainbow, opening Oct. 2 from 3 to 7 p.m. during the Old Mill District First Friday Art Walk. Each artist was assigned a color from the prism and invited to explore it as the foundation for an original work of art.
Working on 18-inch cradled wood squares, Danae Bennett-Miller, Anne Gibson, Helen Brown, Taylor Manoles, Adell Shetterly, Dee McBrien-Lee, Sarah B. Hansen, Katherine Taylor, and David Kinker embraced the challenge, using their assigned color as a starting point while having complete freedom to choose their subject matter and medium.
Together, the nine individual works create a vibrant, rich piece that invites viewers to experience the artists’ unique interpretations of color and creativity as the pieces come together to form a visual rainbow.
Artists Lisa & Lori Lubbesmeyer
Lubbesmeyer Art Studio & Gallery will welcome art walk visitors with open doors and an invitation to explore. Artists Lisa and Lori have been hard at work creating new pieces over the summer and will use this First Friday Art Walk to unveil their newest works, titled “Then and Now,” in honor of the Old Mill District’s 25th anniversary! Be apart of the moment and enjoy some tasty sips and treats while you’re at it.
Fall Florals – Jen McCaffrey
The Stacks Art Studios & Gallery remains a hub of creativity, with six standout artists sharing their distinct visions. Alyson Brown, a photographer and stylist, pairs botanical imagery with elevated visual storytelling. Lindsay Gilmore’s abstract landscapes are rooted in the textures and colors of the Pacific Northwest, while Jennifer McCaffrey brings energy and movement to her abstract paintings featuring fall florals this First Friday. Mark Seekins is known for his nature-inspired prints and for redesigning the covers of the original five “Game of Thrones” books, and Gwen Gossett’s leans into printmaking world with her own flair of whimsical illustrations that celebrate storytelling and character design. Newest to the studio is artist Rachel Barbera, an abstract artist who works primarily with oil paint and incorporates mixed media like burned wood, pastel, pigment sticks and plaster. This First Friday is a great excuse to meet Rachel and ask her about the new jewelry line she’ll soon introduce alongside her acrylic works.
The Summer Animal Scavenger Hunt has been a hit in the Old Mill District this summer, and First Friday Art Walk is the perfect time to give it a try. Keep an eye out for 15 illustrated Pacific Northwest animal characters hidden throughout the district and see how many you can find. Created with Mike Bennett Studios and The Zooquarium, all you have to do is scan the QR code near any animal illustration or pick up a checklist at the Ticket Mill above REVOLVR and Hello Sunshine. Explore storefronts and walkways in search of whimsical creatures inspired by native wildlife like owls, mule deer and rock chucks. Blending art, education and exploration, the scavenger hunt offers a fun way to discover the district and see how many animals you can find.
More Participating Shops and Vendors around the District
Confluence Fly Shop will host “First Fly Day” from 4 to 8 p.m. This casual gathering encourages fly tyers to bring their vises, tie up some bugs and enjoy $5 pints while connecting with fellow anglers.
Dudley’s Bookshop in Bend’s Old Mill District will join the First Friday Art Walk, bringing creativity and whimsy to the south end of the plaza. In addition to good literature and a friendly crew, Dudley’s will also host artist Krishi Creates, a talented crochet artist who creates adorable keychains, bags, bookmarks, tiny characters and plenty more to discover. Stop by to enjoy specialty wine pours, browse a curated selection of books and perhaps pick out a new crocheted bookmark or colorful bag to carry your new books in!
Elk Vintage will feature vintage clothing, accessories and home décor. Stop by to shop one-of-a-kind vintage finds and enjoy a blend of local style throughout the evening. This First Friday, Elk Vintage will also host a local jewelry artist to add a touch of dazzle to all the retro vibes we love so much. Stay tuned for more details about the artist!
Greg’s Grill hosts live music with a performance by Dustin Sciaraffo every First Friday Art Walk from 5 to 7 p.m. Sciaraffo is known for his acoustic guitar skills and rock ’n’ roll melodies, creating the perfect addition to the creative energy of First Friday in the Old Mill District.
M’s Bakery founder Dario Mucino Trujillo grew up in Mexico City. Now he and his wife, Macy Davis, bring a piece of that heritage to the Old Mill District with a free Mexican wine tasting during First Friday Art Walk. The bakery will also offer its seasonal pastries and fresh bread for visitors to sample while spotlighting the creative art pieces of their very own barista, and artist, McKelvey Indiana who specializes in abstract oil paintings.
Head to REVOLVR this First Friday to shop the season’s must-have menswear. While you’re there, meet local photographer and creative, Cody Burglehaus, who has a knack for capturing real, raw moments in time, spaces and people in his world. Then, check out REVOLVR’s Old Mill District graphic t-shirts that draw on its historical roots.
High Desert Food & Farm Alliance will join the Old Mill District in Center Plaza for First Friday with a pop-up celebrating the accessibility edition of its Local Food Guide and partnerships with restaurants in the district. Learn how HDFFA works to improve food accessibility through programs offered throughout Central Oregon, supports regional farmers and ranchers, and connects the community with local food resources. Pick up a copy of the Local Food Guide to learn more about the High Desert Food Trail, educational opportunities and restaurants partnering with HDFFA.
Destination Rehab will also be making an appearance at First Friday, where they will spread awareness about breaking down barriers and challenging stigmas surrounding neurological conditions. In addition, Destination Rehab will be accompanied by a few alpacas who will wander the district and greet art walkers along the way!
Stay tuned for more info to come!
Continue the First Friday Fun in Downtown Bend
First Friday in the Old Mill District is just the beginning. Once you’ve explored the galleries and activations along the river, take a scenic stroll into Downtown Bend for even more art, music and small business magic. From 5 to 8 p.m., Downtown’s First Friday adds an extra layer of local charm to your evening.
How to Get Downtown from the Old Mill District:
Walking from Center Plaza in the Old Mill District to Downtown Bend is a simple stroll with scenic river views and plenty of charm along the way. The walk is approximately 1 to 1.5 miles, depending on your route, and takes around 20 to 30 minutes at a relaxed pace.
Walking Routes
Deschutes River Trail: A scenic, paved path that follows the Deschutes River, connecting the Old Mill District to Downtown Bend. The trail features footbridges and loops, offering a relaxed and beautiful stroll suitable for all ages.
City Streets: For a more direct route, walk along SW Powerhouse Drive and NW Wall Street. This path passes through some of Bend’s historic areas and offers a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
Bike Rentals
Wheel Fun Rentals in the Old Mill District provides a variety of options, including cruisers, electric bikes and kids’ bikes. Located near Riverbend Dog Park, it is a convenient starting point for an entertaining ride to downtown.
Highlights Along the Way
Millers Landing Park: A peaceful riverside park perfect for a quick rest
Drake Park: A picturesque Downtown Bend landmark along Mirror Pond
Public Art and Murals: Discover sculptures, murals and art installations that celebrate Bend’s creative spirit
This sounds like such an awesome event. Thank you for spreading the word about things to do in Bend!
Thank you so much for the great family fun offers. We plan on taking the grands to several movies. Andy, Charlie, Liam and Nolan- get ready for some Lego movie fun at the Old Mill !!