Free Art Friday

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Free Art Friday is an event for children ages 6 months to 5 years and their grownups. Each event's arts and music activities, sensory play and decorations are based on a theme which changes each month. Free Art Friday allows caregivers and their little ones to explore and create together through art projects, imaginative play, music and movement.

This program is partially funded by a grant from the Tempe Diablos.

Upcoming

Free Art Friday: Gifts Galore

9 a.m. to Noon
Friday, December 12
Edna Vihel Arts Center (3340 S Rural Road)

No registration required

Free Art Friday

Unwrap a bundle of creativity this December’s Free Art Friday as we dance, giggle, play, and create our way into this holiday season. Whether you’re celebrating winter holidays, upcoming birthdays, or making a “just because” day extra special, nurture your little one’s creativity as they make gifts sure to be treasured by all!

You and your little one will explore through sensory play, music, movement and themed art projects ideal for kids ages 6 months to 5 years. Get hands-on as you use a variety of materials to learn and create together at Free Art Friday!

What to expect:
Be sure to dress for mess!

Art and Activities

Free Art Friday
Winter Wonder Frame
(Insert your photo from our photo booth!)

Free Art Friday
Charm Pen

Free Art Friday 2025
Process Art and Dramatic Play

A shot from above of five children reaching into a bin of rice with colorful toys
Sensory play and Baby Science activity with ASU Emerging Minds Lab

Free Art Friday
Photo Booth

Music and more

Live music performance from Tempe Playlist

A crowd of children and caretakers dance around a musician
Music and movement activity with Emily Bruso of Natural Notes

For the Grownups

Free Art Friday
Coffee for purchase from a local vendor

Don't miss out! Mark your calendars now and come back each month for new themes, engaging activities, and free family fun.

Spring 2026

February 13: Friendship Party
March 6: Bumblebee Ball
April 17: Wiggles & Wheels

Talking to Children About Their Art

"Do you like it!?" Here are some ways to help your child grow and learn while showing you care about them and their work.

Art Elements

Point out colors or ask them to tell you what colors they are using
Point out various shapes or have them tell you what shapes they have used
Point out contrast in the art work such as one corner full of circles while the other has only a few straight lines.

Process

Talk about or ask them to describe the order they create their work
Ask them what parts were hard or simple to create
Ask what they would like to do with the work when it is complete -- hang it in a museum? Give it to a friend? Show it to everyone they meet?
Avoid asking "why," especially with younger children. Instead, express curiosity and allow them to explain their process as they choose

Final Product

How you handle your child's art tells them how you value their effort and imagination as well as how art should be treated. Avoid any damage to work created at Free Art Friday by utilizing our Drying Station -- just don't forget to grab your art before you go!