First Friday presented by Fulton Bank

January 1–December 6
2024
Location: Cherry Street Pier
Time: 4 pm to 9 pm

Join us on the first Friday of each month for exhibition openings, artist studio tours, markets, and stunning views of the Delaware River.

All exhibitions and events are free and open to the public unless otherwise noted.  First Friday dates: January 5, February 2, March 1, April 5, May 3, June 7, July 5, August 2, September 6, October 4, November 1, and December 6.

Review the full lineup:

Reflection: My Daily Meditation Practice by Tigerhorseart (Michael Thomas)
This exhibition showcases more than 200 captivating watercolor paintings by resident artist Michael Thomas (Studio 5), who began creating these pieces as an alternative to “doom-scrolling” on his mobile device. Join us for the opening reception on Friday, November 1, from 5 to 9 p.m., with a specially curated playlist by Martin Khoa of Burnt Pink.

Opening Reception: Chris Gaehde
“Structural Flow” explores rhythm, structures, and linear abstraction. The show will include eight drawings and four diptychs by Ghaede in conversation with works by nine other artists. This collection of artworks will illustrate artists’ varied approaches to including and utilizing structural elements. Don’t miss the opening reception on Friday, November 1, from 4 to 9 pm on the second-floor terrace.

Sistah Soul Series
The Sistah Soul Series is a free, live music event featuring local independent vocal artists from diverse musical genres. It is hosted by Shekhinah B . of The Women’s Coalition for Empowerment, Inc. Join us every First Friday now through November.

Kelly Lawler’s “Kindness Encyclopedias”
Don’t miss Kelly Lawler’s “Kindness Encyclopedias” installation on display beginning September 6 at Cherry Street Pier. You are invited to sit, rest, contemplate, write, draw, or doodle in these rescued books. The Encyclopedias are surrounded by 12 chairs that reflect our differences and that which connects us all. We are given the safe space to contemplate how we have each been taught kindness and in what ways we teach kindness.

FREE First Friday Workshop: Nuno Felting (Studio 16)
Join Bonnie MacAllister for a Nuno Felting workshop in Studio 16 from 5 to 8 p.m. Nuno felting is making a new textile by combining loose-weave fabric with natural fibers such as farm-sourced mohair from goats or merino wool from sheep. In this no-sew process, visitors will learn to create textures in layers and imagery in surface design.

Art History Paint and Sip with Amy Kelly (Studio 13)
Learn about a famous painter and then create art inspired by their work. Cost: $40. The workshop takes place from 7 pm – 9 pm. 18+ Learn more and register by emailing Amy at 47earrings@gmail.com.

Artist and Artisans Market
Support local artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs at the Artist and Artisans Market. Pick up one-of-a-kind finds at this one-stop shopping experience.

Open Studios
You can also see the Pier’s resident artists at work in their studios and purchase original artwork.

Concessions
Enjoy bites and sips from our local food vendors and discounted items during the Happy Hour on the Waterfront, which runs from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Know Before You Go: 
As you plan your next visit to the Delaware River Waterfront, here is what you need to know before you go: