First Friday From Home

In April 2020, Buzz, Web Exclusive by Lauren KruchtenLeave a Comment

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WEB EXCLUSIVE For the first time ever, the Downtown Raleigh Alliance is bringing its popular First Friday experience to you on April 3.

The event, which typically attracts hundreds of people to downtown’s many art galleries, restaurants and other venues, has gone virtual due to North Carolina’s stay-at-home order. From the comfort—and safety—of your own home, you’ll be able to tune in to many of the same elements of a traditional First Friday, including live performances from local musicians, artistic demonstrations and other virtual events in order to continue supporting and engaging in the vibrant culture of downtown Raleigh.

“We really wanted to give Raleighites and beyond an excuse to celebrate culture in downtown, even while we’re staying at home for the safety of our community,” says Katie Bailey, the director of marketing and communications for Downtown Raleigh Alliance. “We hope they will enjoy it and take it as an example of how else they can continue experiencing downtown Raleigh life from the confines of their living rooms.”

The night will kick off at 5:30 p.m. with a live-streamed DJ set from Kristen Stoneman, also known as DJ K Stones. Pre-recorded videos featuring sets from Trey Charles, Jade Marelle, Imani Pressly, Hank Smith and others will be available to stream on FirstFridayRaleigh.com and the DRA Youtube channel (musicians are subject to change). Confirmed artists include Paris Alexander of C-MAC and Micah Hill.

Beyond the traditional DRA-backed experiences, First Friday members will host their own unique virtual events. Expect a free workout and Zoom happy hour from Shred415, virtual gallery tours of The Centerpiece, Artspace and CAM Raleigh, a wine tasting with DRINK and a community-oriented event with United Arts Council, to name just a few.

On FirstFridayRaleigh.com, you’ll find additional updates about the virtual evening, as well as member restaurants and bottle shops to order takeout or delivery from while you’re enjoying all the festivities.

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