First Fridays

First Fridays are a great time to experience the urban ambience of downtown Lancaster! Join the thousands who enjoy the evening's artistic energy and fun surprises that make each First Friday special.

First Fridays occur on the first Friday evening of every month year round. Over 70 arts venues extend their hours and stay open to 9:00 PM - some even later! Music and refreshments often complement the changing exhibitions and performances.

With a large number of galleries concentrated in Lancaster's bustling downtown district, it is easy and fun to stroll the streets, browse the galleries, meet the artists, and purchase fine art to grace your home and office. Along the way, you will find a range of distinctive owner-operated boutiques and shops with unique and eclectic products not duplicated elsewhere. Complete the evening with a meal at one of the numerous excellent downtown restaurants that offer menus from casual to fine dining. Whether you are looking for sophisticated or funky, retro or edgy, antique or contemporary, you will find it in downtown Lancaster.

First Friday Program and Map - download

Plan your visit with the color-coded First Friday program and map, organized by arts district. (Please be patient, the PDF file may take a few moments to load.)

November 2009 First Friday program
Nov09_First_Friday_program_4pg.pdf (2.14 MB)
Dec 2009 and Jan 2010 First Friday combined program
Dec09_Jan2010_4pg.pdf (2.12 MB)

Gallery Walks & Drives

Click here to see Gallery Walks and Drives by arts district.

Lancaster Family YMCA Parents Night Out

Parents take note! On First Fridays, let your children enjoy their own activities at the Y while you visit the galleries, shops and restaurants. Contact the Lancaster YMCA for details on registration and fees for Parents Night Out.

YMCA Parents Night Out flyer
Parents_Night_Out_July-Dec_09.doc (76 KB)