Fun and Festivities at Poughkeepsie’s First Fridays

Ever find yourself at a loss for what to do on a warm Friday evening? Once a month, Poughkeepsie has an answer!

Every first Friday of each month from May through October, the city of Poughkeepsie organizes a street wide festivity with changing themes- called First Fridays. They were arranged and organized as a way to consistently bring the community together while emphasizing the unique local businesses in the area; things that can only be done within the city.

The very first FF celebration was launched in April of 2016 at the Opera House under mayor Rob Rolison’s committee of sponsors and event organizers. It was simply a gathering to encourage people to check out different local restaurants, attractions, and exclusive deals. Needless to say, it was a huge hit and has only grown from there!

Check out a clip of what the FF founders and organizers have to say:

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The reception from Poughkeepsie locals has been overwhelmingly good, and businesses have been able to garner a lot more exposure! There’s no need to leave town to experience some amazing unique fun! It only makes it sweeter that it’s also a local attraction, and it generates a community that feeds and thrives off of its own talent and individuality.

First Friday street festival celebrations in Poughkeepsie have begun once again in 2019! This year, the city kicked off its first FF fair on May 3rd in honor of Cinco de Mayo; streets decorated with intricate papel picado and colorful banners. Local organizations such as ABC Latino hosted booths featuring fun activities, such as live painting sessions, raffles, and gorgeous dancing. Here’s a snippet of some of the dance festivities:

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The next FF is coming up very soon- June 7th, 2019. The theme for this latest First Friday will be “Queen City Roots” and will feature local breweries, eateries, and more as the theme explores the diversity of Poughkeepsie and the “melting pot” of locals.

At Poughkeepsie FF, be sure to check out the many open galleries and studios that line Main Street during festivity hours. They are open in conjunction with FF and house some of Hudson Valley’s finest artistic talent! Some galleries to check out are Gallery 330, ABC Latino, Cryptic Gallery, 40 Cannon, and many, many more that fill the street! On social media, keep a lookout for the hashtag #FirstFridayPK for live updates from organizers, vendors, and other locals.

And if you find yourself waking up the next day at another loss for what to do…… try checking out Woodstock Farm Sanctuary’s Second Saturdays!