I had yet another enjoyable night at First Friday in Old City, Philadelphia last night. It’s something that I always look forward to, especially in the summer months.
I highly recommend it to anyone who lives in and around Philly. If you’re visiting, try to make it one of your must-dos!
How To & Why Attend
It’s on the first calendar Friday of every month (sorry if I’m stating the obvious), and occurs mainly between 2nd & 3rd streets from Market to Vine. Starts at 5pm and lasts until around 10pm, with primetime around 6-8pm.
When you go to First Friday, you should expect to see (and enjoy) some of the best that Philly has to offer, including:
- Great art galleries (many of which have free drinks and snacks)
- Many street vendors selling all manner of things, from paintings to jewelry
- Live music on the street, of all kinds (one of my favorite parts)
- Be in the heart of Old City with many cool & vintage stores
- Street Style from the grungy to the dapper
- Good food & drink
First Friday Philadelphia Cheat Sheet
Best Galleries: mostly on second street
Best Street Stalls: again mostly on second street
Best Shops: on third street
Best Restaurants: cross south across Second and Market
Travel:
– Public: Blue Line to 2nd & Market
– Car: Front Street is probably the best option, good luck!
CASH: Make sure you have cash to pay street vendors, as you’re sure to like something….
Street Style At First Friday
First Friday’s one of the best events that happens on a regular basis in Philadelphia where you can get a good amount of people-watching in. It’s a really eclectic crowd, spanning all age groups.
Beware if you don’t like overly crowded places, it’s most likely not the best option for you. As the night progresses it gets more and more lively until about 9pm, when most of the vendors have left/are leaving and people are heading home or into the local watering holes.
See my outfit for the evening below….
My Favorite Places At First Friday
Gallery: Sub2 Gallery – Facebook
Artist: Alter Images by Jason Brueck
Store: Briar Vintage & Sazz Vintage Clothing
Street Vendors: All of 2nd Street (however, the ballerina pictures on the left were bought for $30 on the corner of 3rd & Arch. So keep your eyes pealed!)
Live Music: Church Street (just east off 3rd Street) a band sets up there, playing some quality Motown jams…
Restaurant: Sassafras (48 S 2nd St, Philadelphia, PA 19106), got a really cool vibe and good food
Philadelphia First Friday Final Thoughts
It’s hard to truly convey how great the mix of people, things to see & buy are at First Friday. I make a point to go at least every other month, as you never know what you’re going to find. I’ve never been disappointed! Hopefully you make it part of your monthly check-list (if you live in town), or plan a trip around it if you’re traveling to Philly.
Let me know your favorite places and things to do below or on one of our social media profiles, I’m sure to have missed some gems!
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