Events for May 1, 2026
First Friday is celebrated on the first Friday of each month throughout Downtown Raleigh to showcase the best of our city's creative community. Thousands venture downtown to visit art galleries & studios open late to host exhibits, artist talks, and creative activities. Retailers and restaurants also get in on the fun with live music, vendor markets, specials/discounts, and more. There's something for everyone each First Friday.
Create your own First Friday itinerary by selecting the hearts for events and experiences you don't want to miss. Receive a custom map and itinerary to guide your First Friday evening!
Join us for First Friday at VanDeVelde Gallery, where a new body of work is presented each month by Raleigh artist N8than VanDeVelde. The work blends symbolism, story, and lived experience — exploring how ordinary moments can hold something larger beneath the surface.
The gallery is an open space for conversation and connection. Whether you’re simply curious, collecting, or building ideas of your own, you’re welcome here. Questions are encouraged. Dialogue is part of the experience.
VanDeVelde Gallery is inside the Professional Building
Hop on the mic every Friday night at Crank Arm Brewing for Karaoke Night! Bring your crew, start with some "liquid courage", and warm up those vocal cords. Whether you’re here to belt it out or just sip and cheer, it’s the perfect way to roll into the weekend.
Crank Arm offers craft beers, wine, cider, seltzer, and cocktails, as well as THC-infused beverages & non-alcoholic options.
So pedal over, raise a glass, and let’s turn those Friday nights into full-throttle sing-alongs!
Join us for Bar Brew Friday! Did you know Flour & Barrel has its own on-site brewery? Come give us a visit for the first Friday of the month and enjoy any of our draft beers for $5 at the bar. We can’t wait to see you there!
Join Le Dive and Old Ghosts Tattoo for a unique experience every First Friday in Raleigh! Le Dive, teams up with Old Ghosts Tattoo for an exciting night of flash tattoos, good vibes, drinks and food and creative energy!
Are you ready to create and connect with your improv community?
Whether you’re a seasoned performer or a curious first-timer, this is the perfect place to jump in, have fun, and discover the joy of improv. Hosted by our skilled and experienced Leela faculty, our intention is to foster a welcoming space where improv artists of all experience levels can take risks and build community.
Whether you want to step out of your comfort zone, meet new people, or just laugh your heart out, our Improv Community Jam has something for everyone. So grab your friends, bring your Yes And! attitude, and come join the FUN! Let’s play!
When: First Fridays, at 7:00 PM, on-going, monthly
Where: Leela Improv Theatre, 309 N Boylan Ave., Raleigh, NC 27603
Why Join Our Improv Jam?
* Mindful Intent: Our jams promote mutual respect, collaboration, and joyful play.
* No Experience Needed: Everyone is welcome! Just bring your enthusiasm and willingness to try something new.
* Instant Fun: Jump right into games and scenes, and let your imagination run wild.
* Supportive Community: Meet fellow improv lovers, make new friends, and share the stage with people who love to play.
* FREE to Join: Register on Eventbrite (below), then show up and play!
* Dry Jam: Let’s allow improv be the mind-altering substance that brings us together. We’ll celebrate with optional drinks at nearby watering holes AFTER we jam.
* This is an 18+ event.
What to Expect:
* A warm-up session to connect with your play mates and get that energy flowing.
* A Leela host facilitating a kind, structured, and supportive jam experience.
* A chance to perform, watch, and cheer on your fellow improvisors- all experience levels welcome and encouraged (even if none!)
* Laughter, surprises, and unforgettable moments.
* Sign-ups begin at 7 pm for solos (open mic), improv pairs, and improv groups (5+). Sign up for one, none, or all of these categories and the host will curate an evening of entertainment on the fly
* Jam goes from 7:30-9:30 pm
We are back with the 5th year of our ‘First Friday Market and Movie Night’, ⭐️ a Free community event at Moore Square in Downtown Raleigh for all ages!
Please RSVP via link in bio or www.get2knowraleigh.com/events and share with your friends and family. We look forward to another amazing year with you.
This is a monthly event and each month we feature:
⭐️ A free outdoor movie
⭐️ Live music by local artists
⭐️ Food trucks
⭐️ Local vendors’ market
⭐️ Field games for all ages!
The events are held on the first Fridays of each month from 5 – 9 PM.
⭐️ The series is presented by Get 2 Know Raleigh and the Raleigh Parks team at Moore Square and graciously sponsored by Downtown Raleigh Alliance
FIRST FRIDAYS 2026—LET’S GO!
Join us every First Friday from 7–11 PM at The Times!
What’s on deck?
- BEER
- LIVE MUSIC
- MORNING TIMES GALLERY ARTIST & VENDOR MARKET
Kick off your First Friday the right way with ice-cold $5 beers at Veloce. Whether you’re winding down from the week or just getting the night started, swing by for great vibes, good company, and unbeatable food. Grab your crew, find your spot, and toast to the weekend without breaking the bank—because nothing pairs better with First Friday than a perfectly poured $5 beer.
Dr.Schollz Charity Live Art Exhibition for Perfectly Imperfect Pups Raleigh.