Check out “What’s on the Ballot?:” A Cherry Street Pier Artist Exhibition” curated by Thomcat23, Oct. 16 - 25 Details

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:

Design Philadelphia 2024
For twenty years, the Design Philadelphia Festival has held various activities, workshops, and exhibitions that showcase the Philadelphia design community while demonstrating the impact of design on the public. Visit the Pier, the second festival hub, for immersive installations by Jefferson University, Temple University, Tyler School of Art and Design, Gensler, Hoffman Design Group, AIA Philadelphia, and more. On display through October 13.

Dan Marcolina’s “Diffused Realty”
“Disfused Reality” is the first interactive AI art show of its kind. It features more than 30 unique images, many of which have AR enhancements. This series of images subject to many of these enhancements is titled “Complicated Relationships,” which explores the dynamics of various interrelationships between individuals and their environment.

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.

Opening: 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.

Opening: GrioXArts presents “Al B. Blue: Being Home”
Join us for GrioXArts presents “Al B. Blue: Coming Home,” on display from September 6 through October 27 in Studio 3. It is available to view during studio hours. It is for all ages and features works by Duwenavue, Santè Johnson, Joseph Carrillo, and Kara Mshinda. Join us for the opening on First Friday, September 6, featuring a performance by Valerie Johnson at 7 p.m.

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: