First Friday Las Vegas

First Friday Las Vegas is a monthly arts and culture festival in the downtown Arts District, where local artists, makers, food vendors and musicians fill the streets and nearby venues. Browse handmade crafts and galleries, then head to Art Square for food trucks and live music. The event is a lively way to see a creative side of Las Vegas beyond the Strip, with new things to explore across the area. Expect crowds, and plan your trip around road closures and limited parking.

A monthly arts walk in downtown Las Vegas

First Friday began in 2002, started by a small group of artists and business owners in what is now the 18b Las Vegas Arts District. The monthly event has grown into a festival spread across the downtown area, bringing local artists, vendors and musicians together with nearby galleries and businesses.

The festival takes place on the first Friday of each month. Streets in the district become a walking route lined with vendor booths, while galleries and other businesses join in around them. The event changes its theme from month to month, but art, food and live entertainment remain central.

What to see and do

Start with the street stalls, where local makers sell handmade arts and crafts. Then step inside the buildings: artists also show and sell their work in indoor spaces, and galleries are part of the walk. Small shops and other local businesses add more places to browse as you move through the district.

Art Square is a focal point for food trucks. You can pick up food there and continue exploring, or pause to listen to live music, which is spread around the area. The festival suits an unhurried visit, with plenty to look at between the stalls, galleries and performances.