As the sun sets over the Richmond Arts District, the air becomes charged with anticipation for the upcoming First Fridays event. For those who have yet to experience the magic or simply haven’t attended in a while, this is the beating heart of our local culture—a place where artistic talent mingles with eclectic shops and diverse culinary establishments. Arrive around 6 pm to find yourself immersed in a world of live music, comedy, sidewalk sales, pop-ups, and tempting happy hour specials.
Location: Richmond Arts District Time: 5PM-11PM
On Friday, May 5th, don’t miss these captivating events that showcase Richmond’s artistic prowess and creativity:
- Between Floods at @gallery5arts
- @fieldfloral First Friday
- The Easel: a retrospective exhibition at @art_180
- Earth Blossom at @1708gallery
- Memoria: a film by Apichatpong Weerasethakul screening at @icavcu
- First Fridays Makers Market at @unkindnessart
- @vcuartsinteriordesign Open Studio at @middleofbroadstudio
- Art Show & BYOB Party at @supply.rva • @rvamoonmarket at @gallery5arts
- Cameron Ralston & Daniel Clarke at @quirkhotelrva Lobby Bar
- Blackwell Boogie at @manchestermanifest
- RIFF Poster Contest at @themsqshop / 6PM
- First Fridays Improv Sampler at @rvacomedy / 6:30PM
- Wanderlust by Chris Pavlik opening at @the_ada_gallery
- Open Studio at @flavorhead / 5-11PM
- Breaking Ground exhibition at @visualartstudiogallery
- Cinco de Mayo Block Party at @juans_rva, @switchrva & @wokrva
- Butterpop Art at @thebrickhouserva / 5-9PM
For those unaware, this First Friday also marks the commencement of the 2023 Manchester Manifest First Friday season. This art and block party boasts its own unique atmosphere and is free and open to all. Explore the exhibits just across the river in Southside from 5 pm to 12 am every First Fridays from April 7th through October 6th.
Location: 11th-14th Streets off Hull Street Address: 1309 Hull Street
For more information, visi the Richmond Arts District website HERE



