First Friday: A Night On The Town Has Become A New Tradition In Fredericksburg

FREDERICKSBURG, VA — On the first Friday of each month, Fredericksburg residents take to the streets. The monthly event encourages local residents to immerse themselves in the city's art, shopping, and community.

The event, which is held every month except for January, also features a unique alcohol program from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. Fredericksburg's Sip & Stroll program during First Friday events uses a unique ABC license that allows adults to enjoy an alcoholic beverage as they walk through downtown.

Amanda Strawn is a project lead for the First Friday events.

"The goal of reimagining First Friday is to celebrate and vibrancy in downtown Fredericksburg," Strawn said in a video. "Our downtown is vital to the Fredericksburg region as a whole. As a community, we want to come together and celebrate what's already here and do what we can to just make it even better and help it grow over the years."

Adults participating in the Sip & Stroll program during First Friday will be given special wristbands. Beverages will also be served in special cups marked with the restaurant's logo.

"First Friday has always been a thing for the art galleries and the art community; they typically have their show openings on the first Friday of the month," Strawn said. "We want to take that idea that's already been established for First Fridays and use that to help the economy and make the community brighter."

Each month, event organizers create a map that show where residents can enjoy their alcoholic beverage as they stroll through the town. They said the Sip & Stroll aspect encourages residents to visit more restaurants, galleries, and shops.

Nowadays, First Friday participants include art galleries, nonprofits, restaurants, bars, and shops. Most participating businesses stay open late during the event to accommodate the crowds.

The City of Fredericksburg also offers a trolley shuttle from 5 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. to assist visitors and residents.

"FXBG First Friday is no still life," according to the event's website. "It’s worlds within worlds, waiting for you to explore."

Details about the event are available online, including the monthly theme for the galleries, participating restaurants, and which businesses are open late.