First Friday (public Event)

First Friday (public Event)

"First Friday" is a name for various public events in some cities (particularly in the United States) that occur on the first Friday of every month.

These city-wide events may take on many purposes, including art gallery openings, and social and political networking. American cities have promoted such events to bring people to historic areas perceived as dangerous, using the "safety in numbers" mentality to combat urban decay. In some cities this monthly event may occur on the first Saturday of each month instead of Friday.

Additionally, these are "see and be seen" events that serve as a block party or social gathering open to the general public. Many of these events are centered around political networking between Republicans, but in many cities these events may involve pub crawling, other retail establishments such as cafes and restaurants, and performances by fire twirling acts, belly dancing, street musicians, or others.

"First Fridays" is also a nationally recognized networking event targeting African American professionals held on the first Friday of every month in various cities throughout North America. These events started in 1987 and provide urban professionals an opportunity to socially network, exchange and share ideas on professional, educational, political and social issues.