Spring arrives in Albuquerque's Old Town with the energy of a city shaking off winter — and the Spring Art Walk is how the cultural community announces it. Galleries across Old Town open simultaneously for the season, with new exhibitions, artist receptions, and the first outdoor sculptures of the year.

The walk covers more than 20 galleries within easy walking distance of the Old Town Plaza. Work ranges from traditional Southwestern painting and jewelry to contemporary mixed-media installations and photography.

The energy of an opening-weekend art walk is particular: artists present, work fresh, atmosphere genuinely social. Free wine and refreshments at most galleries.

The Plaza comes alive in March — street musicians, food vendors, and the first tourists of the season mixing with locals who have been waiting all winter for this weekend.