First Friday Fest
A special celebration of creativity in the heart of Wichita
Join us across the city core for a vibrant and expanded edition of Wichita’s beloved First Friday art crawl! A celebration of the Wichita art scene, First Friday Fest brings the heart of the city to life with gallery receptions, public art unveilings, sidewalk chalk murals, live music and more.
Whether you're a local art lover or a visitor discovering Wichita for the first time, this event invites you to explore our creative core and celebrate the energy, talent, and imagination that defines our city.
Date & Time: Friday, Oct. 3, 5 – 9 p.m.
Location: Throughout downtown Wichita and nearby neighborhoods!
Cost: Free and open to the public
Featuring:
- Gallery openings and art exhibits
- Live street music
- Chalk art contest
- Public art unveiling
Douglas Avenue Chalk Art Contest - REGISTER TODAY!
Sidewalks become canvases as artists compete in a chalk art contest along Douglas Avenue. Wander through a gallery underfoot and watch the artworks take shape in real time.
Contest: Artists will be able to work on their 12'x12' concrete canvases on Friday, Oct. 3 from 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Judging: Friday, Oct. 3, at 6 p.m.
Location: Ruffin Building, 101 N. Broadway St., Wichita, KS 67202
Gallery Alley Art Unveiling
Celebrate the debut of a new large-scale sculpture by local artist Mike Miller — an installation of fish forms bringing life and movement to Gallery Alley. Part of a broader downtown refresh, this unveiling will kick off evening events during First Friday.
Date & Time: Friday. Oct. 3, from 5 to 5:45 p.m.
Location: Gallery Alley, 616 E. Douglas Ave., Wichita, KS 67202
Sunset Sounds
Enjoy pop-up musical acts at unique downtown locations celebrating the Wichita music scene.
Performer Schedule & Locations: Coming Soon
Gallery Crawls + Maker Pop-Ups
Explore local galleries, open studios and maker pop-ups across the city core. Whether you’re looking to buy art, meet artists, or just get inspired, there’s something around every corner.
View all First Friday exhibits and gallery receptions.
Get Involved
Want to activate your space during First Friday Fest?
We welcome partners, performers, artists and local businesses to join the celebration.
Email: info@downtownwichita.org
Submit your First Friday reception or exhibition at www.FirstFridayICT.org.