Evenings of Art, Music, and Food

As traditions go, this one has its own niche and attractions.

As the sun sets on the first Friday of every month, the North Village Arts District transforms into a spirited center for all things art in downtown Columbia. But First Fridays is more than just an art walk. It’s an immersive experience where live music, artisan cuisine, and local talent come together to showcase the city’s thriving creative scene. From niche bakeries to inspiring galleries, the monthly event has become a beloved tradition for newcomers and longtime patrons.    

A Feast for the Senses   

Step into the heart of First Fridays, and you’re immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of artistic energy. Music spills from gallery patios, the scent of fresh pastries and savory dishes wafts through the air, and each storefront features new attractions to discover. Whether you’re indulging in a handmade chocolate covered cheesecake truffle from Wishflour Bakery or watching a painter bring a canvas to life, the event engages all five senses in a way that feels both exhilarating and personal.   

For Marcey Mertens, owner of Wishflour Bakery, the event is a whirlwind of excitement.  

“We started getting involved in May 2022,” she explained. “Now, we have a line out the door for three hours — people grabbing dinner and sweets, just having fun.”  

Each month, Mertens and her team craft a special menu based on seasonal ingredients, trending flavors, and sheer inspiration.  

Her advice for first-time attendees? “Come early.”  

Across the way at Serendipity Gallery, Elizabeth Jordheim has been curating the First Fridays experience since August 2020.  

“Our art exhibits are scheduled far in advance — sometimes one to two years ahead,” she noted. “We book musicians early, add pop-up food vendors, bring in guest artists, and even have wellness providers from Serendipity Wellness Studios offering interactive experiences.”   

Jordheim describes First Fridays as “energetic, lively, uplifting, and culturally rich — a time for connection.” The gallery’s ever-evolving lineup ensures there’s always something new to experience, from live performances to surprise exhibitions.  

“You can feel the energy shift as people explore, talk with artists, and get swept up in the atmosphere,” she said. One bonus: enjoy a glass of wine while you explore the intimate gallery.  

The Art of Community   

Beyond the food and the music, First Fridays is about fostering a sense of belonging. The event thrives because of the artists, business owners, and community members who dedicate themselves to make it special.   

Nikki Reese, events and business coordinator for the downtown Community Improvement District and marketing coordinator for the North Village Arts District, plays a key role in promoting the event.  

“The First Friday Free Art Crawl is an immersive celebration that engages all your senses,” she said. “You can have conversations with seasoned artists, unique handmade crafts from assortment of vendors, and indulge in everything from pasta to pastries.”   

For Reese, one of the most impressive aspects of First Fridays is its financial accessibility.  

“The crawl itself is absolutely free, so you can take your time exploring galleries and performances without any pressure,” she added. And don’t worry about parking — it’s free for the first hour, and after 6 p.m., it’s free in all downtown garages.  

First Fridays isn’t just for seasoned art lovers — it’s an open invitation for anyone curious about Columbia’s creative scene.  

Christina McGuckin, a regular attendee, recalls her first experience: “I got involved through friends about five years ago. I had lived in Columbia for a while but had never heard of First Fridays until they invited me. I went for the social aspect and kept coming back for the experience.”   

For McGuckin, the magic of First Fridays lies in its inclusivity.  

“It brings out people of all types that color the one-of-a-kind canvas that is the Columbia community,” she says. “It’s a nice walk through the North Village Art District and there is live music to enjoy, free drinks, demonstrations, and pieces to purchase along the way. There is never a dull moment.”   

Insider Tips for the Ultimate First Fridays Experience   

If you’re planning your first First Fridays outing, local experts have some advice to help you make the most of the night:   

• Arrive Early, Stay Late: Many businesses, like Wishflour Bakery, see long lines early in the evening. Arriving early gives you a chance to grab a treat before the rush, while staying late lets you soak in every last bit of the event’s magic.  

• Support Local Artists and Businesses: “First Fridays can only continue if the businesses thrive,” Jordheim advises. “Buy dinner, enjoy a drink, purchase original art, and tip the musicians and bartenders.”  

• Engage with the Artists: Reese encourages attendees to talk to the creators behind the work, adding, “They are the reason First Fridays happens. Hearing their stories adds so much to the experience.”  

• Explore Beyond Your Usual Stops: McGuckin recommends wandering into every gallery and shop, even if you’ve been before. “Each one speaks to different people in different ways,” she noted. “Find what resonates with you.”  

• Bring the Whole Family: First Fridays is a family-friendly event, with activities designed to engage kids as well as adults. From hands-on art stations to live entertainment, there’s something for everyone.  

What’s Next for First Fridays?   

There’s plenty in store for First Fridays regulars and newcomers alike in 2025. While businesses keep their plans under wraps, a few enticing details have already emerged.   

Serendipity Gallery plans to bring its wellness and beauty providers into the event more regularly, offering interactive experiences that blend art with self-care. And, of course, the highly anticipated Annual Roof Party for the North Village Arts District will return, benefiting the arts district and ensuring that First Fridays continues to flourish.   

Each month, attendees can expect new exhibitions, surprise performances, and an ever-changing lineup of food vendors and musicians. Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, there’s always something fresh to discover.  

A Tradition Worth Keeping   

As Columbia’s creative heartbeat, First Fridays is more than just a night out — it’s a tradition that brings people together through art, music, and shared experiences. It’s a space where local talent shines, where friendships are formed over a shared love of creativity, and where the city’s cultural identity is celebrated month after month.  

Arrive hungry, bring your curiosity, and prepare to be inspired.   

For updates and sneak peeks at what’s coming next, follow the North Village Arts District, Serendipity Gallery, and Wishflour Bakery on social media. There are many other small businesses and vendors to discover in the North Village Arts District during traditional business hours as well.