Get ready for spooky season with October’s First Friday ODTX from 6 – 9 p.m. Friday, October 4. This month’s event features a free screening of the Amazon Video docuseries ‘The Story of Art In America,’ highlighting local Odessa and Alpine artists. Plus, check out the chalk art gallery at Sacrificial Needle. Celebrate the start of fall by jumping into Odessa’s vibrant arts scene, making it the perfect night out for friends and family.
‘The Story of Art In America’ Screening: Join us at The Ector Theatre for a free screening of ‘The Story of Art In America’ during First Friday ODTX. This captivating docuseries on Amazon Video explores the impact of art in American society. This showing will feature the Alpine and Odessa episodes, followed by a panel discussion with the artists featured in the series. The discussion will be led by Odessa Arts Executive Director, Randy Ham, offering unique insights into the world of art in West Texas.
Odessa Marriott Hotel Room Discount for ‘The Story of Art In America’ Screening: Attendees of the ‘The Story of Art In America’ screening can enjoy a special discounted room rate at the Odessa Marriott Hotel. Book your room before the offer closes on October 1, using the following link: https://bit.ly/MarriottDiscount10424. Stay close to the action of First Friday ODTX by staying at the Marriott, making almost all stops within walking distance!
Odessa Arts Booth Giveaways at The Ector Theatre:
- Spend $20 or more at any local shop, restaurant, or vendor during the event hours, and show your receipt at the Odessa Arts and Downtown Odessa booth at The Ector Theatre to receive a new, free orange t-shirt.
- Fill out a survey to receive a free deck of Basin 52 cards.
- Pick up free First Friday ODTX coloring sheets designed by local artist Sara Scholl.
Odessa Arts Membership Drive Launch: Odessa Arts will launch their 2024-25 season membership drive. Members who sign up during First Friday ODTX will get a free clear tote bag.
Chalk Gallery at Sacrificial Needle: Step into the Chalk Gallery at Sacrificial Needle during First Friday ODTX and witness local artists turn the pavement into stunning works of art! Aspiring artists, this one’s for you too — there’s a special section where you can unleash your creativity and leave your own chalk masterpiece.
Vendor Markets:
4th & Jackson: A bustling vendor market featuring a variety of local vendors: 3 Pearl’s Speciality Treats, OU-812 Custom Cakes & Cupcakes, General Villa Jerky, Pucker Up Lemonades, Muddah’s, Sam’s Club, Clamatos Los Gachos, SUNNY SKULLS, Dacy’s Kitchen, Skull & Crossbeans Mobile Brew, Love One Another Soaps, Be Sweet Beauty, Bath House Apothecary/Arcane Jewelry, AnnaJames Brewing Company, Sweet Traveler Patisserie, West Texas Candy, and more!
Copper Rose Market (415 N Grant Ave.): Local vendor market with more than 15 vendors offering unique goods.
Sacrificial Needle (1500 N Grant Ave.): Local vendor market, live art demonstrations, and specials on tattoos and piercings. Also, explore the chalk gallery and witness local artists turning the pavement into works of art.
The Downtown Venue (515 N Grant Ave.): Two Purple Llamas Market will host a vendor market featuring 10-plus local businesses.
Participating Businesses:
Copper Rose Building (415 N Grant Ave.):
- The Craft Shop: Choose from over 100 cup wraps and more than 10 different cups to choose from (cost to participate).
Copper Key Gifts (501 N Grant Ave.): Open for extended hours.
Ector County Library (321 W 5th St.): Visit the library from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. for a Halloween slime craft.
Flair Taverna (2701 John Ben Shepperd Pkwy.): Live Music from Brother Z.
Homemade Wines (400 N Texas Ave.): Homemade Wines is hosting a Sip & Paint party. Participants pay $50, and supplies are included. Food and beverages are available for purchase.
JoAnn’s on 5th Flowers (610 W 5th S): DIY floral arrangements (cost to participate).
M Elemental Therapeutics (419 N Jackson Ave.): Free 5-minute massages and free samples of pumpkin and vanilla hand scrubs.
Marriott Odessa (305 E 5th St.)
Masa Bakery (519 Jefferson Ave.): Excel ER is hosting a free 45-minute art class. Participants will also receive free pan dulce and drinks (while supplies last). Sign-up in advance here: https://bit.ly/FreeArtClassOctFFODTX
McJack General Store (411 N. Grant Ave.): Decorate a pumpkin craft.
Odessa Arts (The Ector Theatre): Membership table with exciting giveaways! Spend at least $20 at a local business to receive a yellow First Friday t-shirt. Fill out an arts and culture economic survey for a free deck of Basin 52 cards. Pick up free First Friday ODTX coloring sheets designed by local artist Sara Scholl.
Odessa College Green Space (Corner of East 4th St. and N Jackson Ave.): Hocus Pocus free movie screening.
Patrick Clay’s Tavern (418 North Grant): Food and drink specials and $30 tattoos at Evil Ink Tattoos.
Scooters Coffee (801 N Grant Ave.): Half off any drink with a coupon; coupon will be posted on Odessa Arts’ Facebook page on Oct. 4.
Skalicky Ballet (118 E 8th St.): Free 30-minute ballet class from 6 – 6:30 p.m.
Starbucks Downtown (305 E 5th St.): Free typewriter poetry by Candice Harding.
Torchy’s Tacos (306 E 5th St.): Caricatures artist.
* Line up schedule to change.