An open invitation to stroll through galleries, new exhibits, receptions and live music has been issued with the Fall Art Walk.

From 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, downtown Washington gallery owners will be welcoming the public to explore their stores of art. The Arts of the Pamlico event is a longstanding one and welcomes the addition of a drum circle, led by Gary Duncan.

“They’re going to be wandering around the streets and create a lot of interest and hopefully, the rain will cooperate — it will be a fun night,” said Thad Aley, Arts of the Pamlico’s exhibits and events coordinator.

Arts of the Pamlico, Kay Woolard’s Art on Market, Contemporary Art Exchange, Lemonade Art Gallery, Art Tyndall Studio, Little Shoppes, River Walk Gallery and Arts Center, Sam’s Rustic Shop, Secret Garden, Lone Leaf Gallery and Framing are Art Walk participants, while Aley said many downtown shops will be expanding their hours as well.

“Some of the other shops, some of the non-art shops, are staying open, so it’s kind of a collaboration, kind of creating a bigger event for downtown,” Aley said.

Music will be playing a larger part in the event: in addition to the roving drum circle, Beaufort County Traditional Music Association members will be performing outside Secret Garden, weather permitting, and Washington native Adam Brinson brings his band, The Outboards, back to the Turnage Theatre for repeat performance at 7:30 p.m. — this one a fundraiser for Hurricane Florence relief.

“It’s in the gallery space, so that way people can enjoy refreshments while they listen to live music,” Aley said.

The Outboards’ performance is the only ticketed part of Friday’s events ($10 cash/$12 credit card per ticket); all other events are free.

Arts of the Pamlico is located at 150 W. Main St., Washington. “Art Stop” brochures can be picked up there.