Each January, residents from the cities and towns of Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Guadalupe, Phoenix, Tempe and Scottsdale gather at Tempe Town Lake to celebrate diversity and culture during the annual Regional Unity Walk.

While it’s still not safe to gather in large groups, the need for unity is greater than ever, according to a release.

In honor of the 18th year of the regional unity event, these Valley cities are coming together to host a “Unity ArtWalk: A Visual Journey of Diversity, Culture and Equity.” Each city has compiled a list of signature art pieces — including murals, photos, performances and sculptures — for the community to experience. The majority of the featured art is accessible without going indoors, so it’s a safe activity to enjoy as a family outing, date night or even to escape your neighborhood to explore a nearby city.

Go to mesaaz.gov/unitywalk to view a map of the complete art walk destinations. The map will feature information about each piece, including the artists.

Additionally, in Mesa, the Mesa Contemporary Arts Museum, 1 E. Main St., will be featuring exhibitions in conjunction with the Unity ArtWalk:

• Guest Curator Clottee Hammons, creative director of Emancipation Arts LLC, will be hosting a special pop-up “Human Contrast” Dec. 22-Jan. 31.
• Ann Morton will be hosting “History Repeats” in the South Gallery Dec. 22-March 28.
• Harold Lohner will be hosting “Forbidden Colors” in the SRP Gallery Dec. 22-April 18.

While residents are out on the town enjoying the art walk, each city’s Diversity Office has compiled a list of recommended restaurants — with carryout services available) — along the way that are owned by people of color. During this time, it’s important to support local businesses. Be sure to try a different eatery and explore a new experience for your taste buds, too, the release states.

To learn more about diversity initiatives in each of the participating cities and towns, go to www.mesaaz.gov/unitywalk.