*This event is part of Open Creative Learning, Future Front’s ongoing series of programs on creative leadership, craft and community-building.
12th Street Block Walk
Join a community walk of East 12th Street, in support of the African-American Cultural Heritage District’s developing strategic plan.
Starting at Future Front’s Community Studio, the Block Walk will also include stops along new and old businesses in the district.
Water and Topo Chico will be provided.
All are welcome. Scroll for more details.
ABOUT THE DISTRICT
The African American Cultural Heritage District in Austin, Texas, stands as a powerful reminder of the rich history, culture, and contributions of the African American community to the city.
Located in East Austin between I-35 (West), Manor Road (North), Airport Boulevard (East) and East 7th Street (South), this district is more than just a geographic area—it is a living narrative of resilience, creativity, and community pride that has shaped the identity of Austin for generations.
Walking through the district, visitors are met with a tapestry of cultural landmarks, historical sites, and vibrant public art that tell the story of African American life in Austin. From historic churches and schools to murals that capture the struggles and triumphs of the community, the district is a place where history is both preserved and celebrated.
The district is home to several cultural institutions that serve as hubs for education, creativity, and community engagement. These spaces offer programs and events that explore the rich heritage of African Americans in Austin, from art exhibitions and music performances to lectures and community festivals. The district is particularly known for its role in preserving the legacy of jazz, blues, and gospel music, which have deep roots in the area.
As Austin continues to evolve, the African American Cultural Heritage District remains a vital part of the city’s fabric. Efforts to preserve and enhance the district are ongoing, with projects focused on cultural preservation, economic development, and community empowerment. This district is not just a place to remember the past—it is a beacon for the future, inspiring pride, unity, and progress in the heart of Austin.
HOW TO ATTEND
This community Block Walk is free and open to the public, thanks to support from Future Front's members, donors, sponsors, partners and the Springboard for the Arts' Creative Change Coalition.
*If you are a Future Front member, please provide your name at the door for entry or head to members.futurefronttexas.org or futurefrontmembership.squarespace.com to access member rates for event tickets, applications & other perks at anytime.
PREPARE YOUR VISIT TO FUTURE FRONT
Future Front’s Community Studio is located at 1900 E. 12th Street.
WHERE TO PARK: We have a large paid parking lot across the street and is directly accessible by bus line. There’s also free parking up and down the street and in surrounding neighborhoods. Carpool, if you can!
WHAT TO DO: Our studio is located within East Austin’s historic African-American Cultural Heritage District, which is home to many other creative spaces and businesses, as well as organizations like Six Square, the What Once Was Heritage Center at Rosewood Courts and Austin’s first HBCU and higher learning institution Huston-Tillotson University.
★ Trona — bar — 1812 E 12th
★ Little Nishi in King Bee — sushi — 1906 E 12th
★ Nixta Taqueria — restaurant — 2512 E 12th
★ Comadre Panaderia — bakery — 1204 Cedar Ave
★ Keep Looking Shop — bookshop — 1614 E 12th
★ community garden — café bar — 1401 Cedar Ave
★ The Plant Society — plant shop — 1912 E 12th
★ Lynny’s — café bar — 1914 E 12th
★ The Little Gay Shop — boutique — 1902 E 12th
★ Sam’s BBQ — restaurant — 2000 E 12th
★ Austin Daiquiri Factory — bar — 2000 E 12th
★ El Tigre Coffee Shop — coffee bar — 1614 E. 12th
AVAILABLE LANGUAGES — ASL interpreters can be provided upon request. Si necesita traducción al español para participar en este evento, envíenos un correo electrónico a hello@futurefronttexas.org.
OUR COMMUNITY SAFETY GUIDELINES —
All Future Front staff, volunteers and guests will be required to practice mutual respect, as well as demonstrate an alignment with Future Front’s code of conduct and values: futurefronttexas.org/values.
Capacity is limited to reduce crowding of any kind and all events will be held in primarily outdoor and open-air spaces or have access to proper ventilations and well-maintained A/C systems.
At Future Front events, all guests are expected to follow Austin-local health and safety guidelines for gatherings, as well as practice consideration with the consumption of tobacco, alcohol and any other legal, mind-altering or dangerous substances and objects. This includes:
Discouraged use of tobacco products on the property of nearby businesses and residences, to improve air quality, throughout our events.
Tobacco use and electronic smoking device use are not permitted at any time within Future Front properties and event spaces at least 15 ft from entrances, exits, operational windows, or ventilation system intake vents.
Littering of tobacco-related products on the grounds or parking lots is also prohibited.
Concealed or open weapons and firearms (including handguns) are not allowed at any Future Front venues.
GOT QUESTIONS? Shoot us a note at hello@futurefronttexas.org. We're happy to help and will get back to you!
ABOUT FUTURE FRONT
Homegrown in Austin, Future Front is an award-winning cultural space and public exhibition series—with women and LGBTQ+ creatives at the front.
As a 501c3 arts and culture nonprofit, we produce two annual community-led exhibitions, The Front Market and The Front Festival, platforming independent artists and creatives across disciplines in Texas. Beyond our flagship exhibitions, we host seasonal shows and workshops at our creative space in East Austin, welcoming 20,000+ visitors per year.
Through these programs and a diverse network of partnerships, we invite the public (including you) to dream of a future where local art and creativity thrive in Texas—where we see ourselves and our cultures reflected in our communities.
FUTURE FRONT IS SUPPORTED IN PART BY The City of Austin Economic Development Department, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Texas Commission on the Arts, The LINE Hotel Austin, Pease Park Conservancy, the Red River Cultural District, Downtown Austin Alliance Foundation, Topo Chico, as well as Future Front’s donors and members.