It was a dusky thrill last year, strolling along the L.A. River at night, led flashlight points shining on the ground at intervals, groups of people strolling in the dark, traveling on foot from studio to studio during the 2nd annual Frogtown Artwalk. Down by the river, it was quiet but festive in an eery way. Usually the river at night -- I can only guess -- is barely humanly attended. Up on the street, it was chatty and festive.

This year the river-channel walls are muted (if not silent) -- the murals having been painted over on orders from Gloria Molina -- but the art studios are operating at a high buzz. Many of the artists who work down by the river will have their doors open tomorrow evening for the third annual Frogtown Art Walk, which also will feature a free river tour beginning at 4:30 p.m.

Founded and organized by my friend Tracy Stone, who lives in Frogtown, also known as Elysian Valley, the free Art Walk is from 5 to 10 p.m., tomorrow, Saturday, Sept. 20. It includes open studios, installations, river tour and, in one case, hulahoops, DJ and food. Click here for more event info.

About this year's Walk, Tracy writes:

We have expanded to include many new artists and architects (a total of 26 participating), Greenmeme is conducting a workshop at the river where participants will help to build and launch a "River Liver" (an environmental installation that will help to clean the river water), and we have a hula hoop promenade from Newell, up the river to Knox, and ending with a competition in our courtyard at 2041 Blake Ave. In addition, there are a number of local bands playing at several of the venues.

Chicken Corner hopes the fire-spitting organ from one of the studios will be in a mood to rage. Crazy dreams!