Get ready for an evening of art, music, and community as the Rat City Art Walk hosts its largest event to date this Thursday Aug. 21, from 5-8 PM. This free, monthly celebration promises to transform the streets of White Center into a vibrant outdoor gallery, showcasing the work of 100 featured artists.

Attendees are encouraged to bring family, pets, and friends for a leisurely neighborhood stroll, enjoying art displayed both inside and outside participating businesses. Look for the signature inflatable rats outside each location, which will serve as guides throughout the Art Walk.

This month's event is particularly special due to a collaboration with @cutiefoundation, a Seattle-based nonprofit founded by local artist Kaitlin Fritz. Their mission is to uplift and empower young, emerging, and especially queer artists by providing free access to inclusive vending spaces, mentorship, and creative resources.

The Rat City Art Walk, established in September 2024, is a nonprofit organization powered entirely by volunteers and donations. Its core mission is to create space for artists to showcase their work always for free, embodying the belief that art should be accessible to both creators and experiencers. The event takes place every third Thursday, bringing art, music, and good vibes to the neighborhood.

Participating Businesses and Offerings: A diverse array of local businesses, including shops, bars, restaurants, and galleries, are teaming up with artists to host pop-up shows, live music, and hands-on activities. Whether it's a debut showing or years of creation, there's a space for everyone to shine. Expect to find everything from paintings and handmade goods to live performances and tasty food.

Some of the many participating establishments include:

• 2 Fingers Social (21+)

• Nepantla Cultural Arts Gallery

• Nacho Mama Fry Bread

• Cartwheel Vintage

• Mr. B’s Meadery

• Misfit Strength Studio

• Terraplanted

• Salvadorean Bakery

• Southgate Arcade

• El Catrin Boombox Bar (21+)

• Rat City Bikes

• Wolf Pack Cellars

• Lumberyard Bar (21+)

• Mynt Salon

• Buho

• La Típica Oaxaqueña

• Sea Pines Physical Therapy

• Big Mario’s Pizza

• Pink Pony Club

• Tim’s Tavern

• Zeek’s Pizza

• Cher Baby Vintage

• Lariat Bar (21+)

• Crawfish House

• Puffy Pandy

• Tomb Of Treasure

• Patrick’s Café and Bakery

• White Center Food Bank (open until 7 PM)

• Blu Grouse

Pet-friendly options are also available, with some businesses explicitly designated as allowing pets inside. Many other locations will feature artists set up outside, ensuring plenty to enjoy at every stop.

The Origin of "Rat City": Despite the name, "Rat City" has no connection to actual rats. The moniker dates back to World War II when a military facility known as the Relocation and Training Center (RATC) was located in the area. Locals began referring to it as the "Rat Center" due to the acronym, which eventually evolved into "Rat City". Today, it's an integral part of the neighborhood's identity—described as gritty, rebellious, and full of character. You'll see "Rat City" in local business names, murals, and events like the Art Walk, serving as a fun nod to White Center’s unique history, strong community spirit, and its beloved mascot.

Whether you're an artist, a business owner, a neighbor, or simply someone who appreciates local culture, the Rat City Art Walk invites everyone to come out and experience what makes White Center truly awesome.

For more information, visit Ratcityartwalk.org