Our Story

The Boylan Heights ArtWalk began in 1992 as a grassroots neighborhood event, born from the creative spirit of one of Raleigh’s oldest and most artistic communities. What started as a handful of local artists displaying their work on porches and front lawns quickly became something much larger — a beloved annual tradition celebrating art, craftsmanship, and connection.

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In those early years, the idea was simple: bring art out of galleries and into the neighborhood, where anyone could discover it. Residents opened their yards and driveways, artists hung paintings from porch railings, and visitors wandered the historic, tree-lined streets discovering creativity around every corner.

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Over time, the event grew to include dozens of artists from across North Carolina, selected through a juried process to ensure a diverse and high-quality showcase of work. Today, ArtWalk welcomes thousands of visitors each December, offering everything from paintings, pottery, and photography to jewelry, metalwork, fiber art, and mixed media creations — all displayed in the charming homes and spaces that make Historic Boylan Heights so special.

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More than just an art market, ArtWalk has become a celebration of community and creativity — a day when neighbors, artists, and visitors come together to share in something uniquely Raleigh. After more than three decades, the heart of the event remains the same: art, connection, and the joy of discovering both close to home.