Head back to the ’70s at First Friday

Dust off your disco duds and prepare for a blast from the past when September’s First Friday celebration goes “Back to the ’70s.”

The monthly arts celebration, in the downtown arts district, will welcome visitors dressed in ’70s finery, whether Earth tones or proudly polyester.

On the musical front, Ray & The Forgetmenots will perform at 9:30 p.m. on the First Friday main stage, while Youth Outdoor Unity will be rocking ’70s tunes at California Avenue and Casino Center Boulevard.

September’s arrival marks the return of the Farmers Market; Naked City Pizza’s Chris Palmeri will demonstrate recipes.

“Paint by Numbers” presents two large frames where visitors can join artist Jasmine Farro and (surprise!) paint by numbers.

Other musical options range from a dance party featuring Epyk to Community Productions’ live drum circle. Also on the entertainers’ list: Rockford Papers at 7:15 p.m. and Luck Factor Zero at 8:15 p.m.

In addition to artists’ booths throughout the festival area, downtown galleries feature a variety of exhibits, including winning entries in the first Las Vegas International Juried Art Competition sponsored by Jana’s RedRoom in the Arts Factory.

Another Arts Factory fixture, Wonderland Gallery, will feature artist Ashleigh Popplewell’s “Bold Little Beetle Bugs” and Roxy B. Montoya’s “Bittersweet Nothings.”

Both galleries, along with other Arts Factory and Art Square locations, also will be open from 6 to 10 p.m. Thursday as part of Preview Thursday.

Other First Friday attractions:

■ Family fun and entertainment on Colorado Avenue

■ Dance DepARTment, with a variety of music and dances on Coolidge Avenue, between First and Main streets

■ Food and drink options, from food trucks and artisan vendors

First Friday runs from 5 to 11 p.m. in the downtown arts district; for more details, visit www.firstfridaylasvegas.com or www.facebook.com/firstfridaylasvegas.

Read more stories from Carol Cling at reviewjournal.com. Contact her at ccling@reviewjournal.com and follow @CarolSCling on Twitter.