Children’s Art Scavenger Hunt during Downtown Bloomington’s First Friday

BLOOMINGTON, IL — Local artist galleries and studios will host a free Children’s Art Scavenger Hunt during Downtown Bloomington’s First Friday celebration on Friday, October 2, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.

Designed for children ages 4 through junior high, the event encourages young participants to explore participating downtown galleries and match specific art forms to their locations. Children who submit a completed scavenger hunt form will receive a grab bag of art supplies and be entered into a grand prize drawing. Grand prizes include paint sets, drawing kits, easels, and other creative tools, with the drawing taking place at 7:00 PM at The Little Art School (417 N. Main St.).

Downtown Bloomington features more than 12 walkable art galleries representing over 100 individual artists. Participating gallery owners hope the event introduces children to working artists in their creative environments and builds long-term engagement with the local arts community.

“Downtown artists hope to nurture a new generation of creators while developing an early appreciation for art by introducing children to living artists in their studios,” said event coordinator Brian K. Simpson. “It is essential that young people feel welcomed into the local art scene and recognize it as a space where they belong.”

Participation in the Art Scavenger Hunt is entirely free. Families can pick up scavenger hunt forms at participating downtown galleries starting at 5:00 PM on the evening of the event.

For additional information, contact Brian K. Simpson at [email protected].