There are many options for outings on a Friday night, but one is a trip to the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA). Every second Friday of the month, SAMA hosts an Art Party which starts before 6 p.m. and ends around 8 p.m.

“Art, music and cocktails are the life of the party every second Friday,” is printed on a SAMA brochure, and it is not false advertisement. General museum admission is $10, but if you are a member of the museum, your entrance is free. With admission, you can sign up for a themed art tour of the different galleries, or you can enjoy the food and entertainment in the courtyard.

The theme of February’s Art Party was “The Art of Love.” There were three different art tours available throughout the event. The time of the tour and the choice of docent determined the artworks discussed.

A portion of the museum is currently being reconfigured, so the artworks discussed during the event were mostly in the left wing: Asian, Roman and Greek art. Every piece of artwork explained by the docent during the Art Party coincided with the overall theme of love, which meant an in-depth look at the many different cultures that produced these wonderful artworks and how they interpret love. Even those who had attended SAMA on previous occasions were able to admire the artworks with fresh eyes on the pieces’ cultures.

After touring the differently themed artworks, the party was in full swing when attendees returned to the courtyard. The entertainment was provided by a local band, PM Soul; this Art Party was a collaboration between SAMA and KRTU Jazz 91.7. Jazz music was the star entertainment during the Feb. event, but every month the music genre varies. The Art Party also provided free finger foods, specialty cocktails by Blue Box Bar (cash bar) and love-themed art making. All of these amenities contributed to a greater social occasion.

For a delightful, culture-filled evening in the downtown San Antonio area, do not miss this lovely attraction and all it has to offer. The SAMA Art Party is a great date night idea or an outing to connect with friends over art and drinks. Check out their website at samuseum.org for future events or visit the museum to view the collections currently on display.