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First Friday
Philadelphia’s thriving local arts scene gets special recognition on the first Friday of every month.
From Old City to Fishtown to Fairmount, First Friday events in Philly’s different arts corridors draw curious crowds eager to explore participating galleries, studios, shops, bars and restaurants.
First Friday attendees can check out art exhibits, shop special sales, enjoy food and drink deals, hear live music and more at different locations citywide.
On the first Friday evening of every month, art galleries and shops all over Philadelphia stay open late, inviting guests to peruse works ranging from painting to photography to sculpture.
A casual atmosphere encourages art appreciation, eating at Philadelphia’s fantastic restaurants and mingling with other like-minded art lovers, with many establishments serving free wine and snacks.
First Friday originated in Old City and grew so popular that events now extend to other Philadelphia neighborhoods as well, including Fishtown.
The First Friday of every month invites art lovers to wander Old City and Fishtown's galleries and restaurants. — Photo by A. Ricketts for Visit Philadelphia
Started in 1991 by a group of galleries as a collaborative open house evening in Old City, First Friday quickly grew into one of Philly’s most vital, signature cultural events.
Most participating galleries in Old City can be found between Front and Third streets, and Market and Vine streets.
Old City’s historic commercial buildings have fostered a cultural ambiance with the densest network of galleries in the city.
Some of the arts organizations open on First Fridays include the Clay Studio; Wexler; the cooperative galleries Muse and 3rd Street Gallery; and the collaborative known as Space 1026.
On the First Friday of every month, Old City gallery owners open their doors for a lively evening of new exhibitions and free refreshments. — Photo by B. Krist for Visit Philadelphia
After hitting the galleries, don’t miss out on the superb dining and nightlife that Old City, Fishtown and other areas have to offer.
Old City boasts great restaurants, bars, lounges and cafes; Amada, Han Dynasty, High Street, Fork and Cuba Libre are but a few of the great spots at which to enjoy dinner, drinks, good company and great people watching.
In Fishtown, places like Johnny Brenda’s, Frankford Hall Beer Garden and Philadelphia Brewing Company typically take part in First Friday fun.
The Visit Philly Overnight Package — booked more than 190,000 times since 2001 — comes with free hotel parking (worth up to $100 in Center City Philadelphia), overnight hotel accommodations and choose-your-own-adventure perks.