Friday, May 1, was the first ArtWalk event for season 2009, and organizers got lucky, with a beautiful evening drawing good crowds to downtown Issaquah.

ArtWalk is a monthly festival hosted by the Downtown Issaquah Association as a chance to expose the community to local artists and musicians. Community members can wander in and out of shops and buildings, seeing and hearing a variety of pieces, all for free.

“It’s fun, exciting, and a great chance to get out, see your neighbors and meet people,” said Keith Watts, president of the Downtown Issaquah Association. “It’s a really jovial environment.”

ArtWalk events take place the first Friday of every month from May through September, and bring in all sorts of performers and artists.

While the format won’t be any different from previous years, Watts encouraged people to come out and see the handful of new bands and artists that are going to be showcased.

He also said the event has something for everyone; it’s a family-frienly occasion with hands-on art projects, but does offer adult entertainment for those who aren’t bringing children along.

“The community has always been incredibly supportive of ArtWalk,” Watts said. “It keeps growing, and people continually tell us to work hard and make sure it happens every year.”

A free shuttle will be available for the first time this year, at University House, 22975 S.E. Black Nugget Rd. Because downtown parking is limited, people can park there, and ride the shuttle anytime from 5-9 p.m.

And as a plus, a free event is always nice in a bad economy.

The next ArtWalk will be Friday, June 5.

For more information, or to see a map of artist locations, go to www.downtownissaquah.com.