Celebrate the arts on First Friday in Lancaster, PA with a wide variety of activities. Stroll along Gallery Row and the surrounding streets of Downtown Lancaster to discover new exhibitions, book releases, live music and poetry readings, boutique openings, restaurant specials, and much more.
Just as the name suggests, First Friday is always on the first Friday of every month! Most galleries will remain open until 8:30 p.m. so you have plenty of time to admire all of the art.
Exploring First Friday is a breeze, as most galleries and events are concentrated within a few blocks, making it ideal for walking. During the months of May through October, complimentary open-air trolleys operate from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM, offering convenient transportation with multiple stops along the route. Visiting from out of town and need some directions? Check out our transportation guide.
Whether it's a cozy sweater for crisp autumn evenings or sunglasses and sunscreen for sunny summer strolls, make sure you dress comfortably and are prepared for the weather, as First Friday festivities unfold year-round.
Local businesses often host special pop-up events for First Friday, so make sure to check our events calendar for additional surprises and experiences during your visit.
On the First Friday of every month galleries in Lancaster remain open until 8:30pm. It's a time when the city buzzes with excitement, as galleries invite everyone to explore the vibrant world of artistic expression. Galleries often showcase new works of art, so there will always be something new to discover.
Not sure where to start your First Friday festivities? Follow this First Friday LOOP Tour.
From 5 to 7 pm every First Friday, Lancaster Science Factory invites families with kids in grades K-8 to enjoy a fantastic evening of curiosity and discovery. Explore over 70 interactive exhibits for free and immerse yourselves in the wonders of science, igniting a passion for learning that will last a lifetime.
Take your First Friday further by admiring vibrant murals and public artworks adorning the city, exploring the depths of creativity within museums, or immersing yourself in an art class where your imagination knows no bounds. Or visit a local theater to watch a stage performance, where every act unfolds like a masterpiece before your eyes.
Keep the excitement going long after the galleries have closed their doors! Lancaster has a bustling nightlife scene with plenty of bars serving expertly crafted cocktails. So you can sip an inventive beverage while you mingle with locals and fellow art enthusiasts alike. And if you're looking to extend your First Friday experience into a mini-getaway, Lancaster boasts a variety of hotels with captivating and inventive decor to suit every taste.
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100 N Queen St. Lancaster, PA 17603 (717) 207-7065 Website
138 North Prince Street Lancaster, PA 17603 (717) 299-4400 Website
135 North Lime Street Lancaster, PA 17602 (717) 299-9940 Website
928 Driver Ave. Landisville, PA 17538 (717) 393-9428 Website
42 N Prince St Lancaster, PA 17603 (717) 871-7018 Website
142 N. Prince Street Lancaster, PA 17603 (717) 435-9591 Website
2 Woodcliff Drive Leola, PA 17540 (717) 723-8099 Website
118 N. Water St., Suite 101 Lancaster, PA 17603 (717) 945-6933 Website
120 East King Street Lancaster, PA 17602-2832 (717) 299-9940 Website
100 North Queen Street Lancaster, PA 17603 (717) 293-0809 Website
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