A fancy night out is fun every once-and-awhile, but it’s also important to find hobbies that don’t break the bank. Luckily, Downtown Lubbock can provide those too. Today, we’re talking about free AND family-friendly activities that you can enjoy in the heart of our city!
LHUCA Galleries
511 Ave. K
LHUCA, or the Louise Hopkins Underwood Center for the Arts, features four art galleries that span over 5,000 square feet. Those four galleries are home to pieces created by local, national, and international artists. LHUCA says its goal is to “bring insightful, thought-provoking exhibitions that will deepen your understanding, appreciation, and connection with the arts.” That’s why its galleries are open to all ages and admission is always free. You can view their current galleries Wednesday through Saturday from 11am-5pm.
Mahon Library
1306 9th St.
Truly, is there a more peaceful place on Earth than a library? Luckily, the City of Lubbock’s library system is one we can all take advantage of.
Mahon Library, found right across the street from Buddy Holly Hall, offers free library cards (anyone a reader?) and a stacked schedule of free classes, activities, and events to enjoy. From story times and magic shows to true crime book clubs and knitting classes, there’s something for everyone!
Take a look at the schedule to attend and enjoy their programming and the incredible work they do!
Buddy Holly Center Fine Arts Gallery
1801 Crickets Ave.
The Buddy Holly Center features 2,500 square feet of gallery space dedicated to the presentation of changing contemporary visual arts programs.
What’s special about this gallery? It features a variety of mediums, so everyone can enjoy the different exhibits. In the past, they’ve featured clay sculptures, paintings illustrating the effects of Jim Crow laws in Lubbock, and award-winning tattoo artistry.
The gallery is closed on Mondays, but you can visit Tuesday through Sunday at no cost!
First Friday Art Trail
5th St. & Ave. J
First Friday Art Trail is a self-guided public art festival that takes place on the first Friday of every month from 6-9 pm. Held in the Lubbock Cultural District, the event brings together collectors, artists, and the community for an evening of art, music, and fun!
Trail goers can grab a map and explore the trail on their own, or jump aboard one of five free First Friday Trolleys and ride to the galleries along the downtown route.
The Trail is completely free, but you can shop for art or grab a delicious bite to eat from a local food truck if you’re interested!
Lubbock Downtown Farmers Market
5th St. & Ave. J
There’s something different about the Lubbock Downtown Farmers Market. It’s a piece of the heart of the city and unifies Downtown Lubbock with an identity of originality.
Although you have the opportunity to purchase art, fresh produce, or a delicious cup of coffee, it’s also very common for people to visit the Farmers Market and not swipe their card. It’s a wonderful opportunity to spend time with other community members, enjoy some time outdoors, and support small businesses simply by showing up for their events.
Another great reason to visit the Lubbock Downtown Farmers Market: it’s pet-friendly! Bring out your four-legged friend for a beautiful day in DLBK!
Mural and Doors Tour
We’ve said it once and we’ll KEEP SAYING IT!
Downtown Lubbock is a place of beauty and creativity. That’s why it comes as no surprise that you don’t have to visit a gallery to view art downtown. Around DLBK, you’ll find beautifully painted/decorated murals and doors created by downtown artists themselves.
Our suggestion: plan a day to walk or drive around and see them all! This costs $0 and it’s a fun way to spend the day. Another plus: killer Instagram content. ;) We’ve created a list of the best ones, so you don’t have to!
Just by being downtown, you’re supporting local businesses, the arts district, and the downtown community as a whole. When you support one Downtown Lubbock institution, you’re supporting them all. As more people spend time here, it brings increased awareness to the businesses downtown and gives people a glance at the possibility of what Downtown Lubbock could be.
Thank you for being a part of it!
