explore. create. stay out late.

Check out downtown's artistic offerings on First Friday

The beginning of every month starts with a bang in downtown Dayton. First Friday is a free event held from 5 to 10 p.m. at several locations throughout downtown.

This art hop features exhibit openings at the galleries, along with a variety of entertainment options, including street performances and roaming entertainers, outdoor concerts, an urban street cycling ride, arts demonstrations, live music and more. More than a dozen locations -- including art galleries, retail shops, restaurants and bars, coffee shops and more -- participate in this event, which every month offers something new and surprising.

Add to all this everything going on at the restaurants, bars, nightclubs, theaters, comedy club, movie theater and more that make up the downtown mix. Click the button at right to download detailed information about specific happenings during the upcoming First Friday, and follow First Friday on Facebook for event highlights, photos, the latest news and more.

Call for Performing Artists!
First Friday is seeking performing artists to provide roving entertainment on downtown streets during First Friday art hops. If you are interested in participating, please contact This email address is being protected from spam bots, you need Javascript enabled to view it at 937-224-1518, ext. 227.

First Friday is presented by the Downtown Dayton Partnership with support from Rev. Cool's "Around the Fringe" show on WYSO-FM 91.3 Public Radio, the Oregon District Business Association and the Ohio Arts Council.