Artist Alley unveils new exhibit during Arts, Beats & Eats

Be among the first to experience downtown’s newest public art collection while enjoying music, food, shopping and more.

Food, music, art, and the unveiling of a brand-new Artist Alley exhibit highlight September’s First Friday celebration.

Downtown Kokomo comes alive Friday, Sept. 4, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. for Arts, Beats & Eats, a First Friday celebration packed with creativity, entertainment, and local flavor.

The evening’s featured event is the unveiling of a brand-new exhibit at Artist Alley, downtown Kokomo’s 24/7 outdoor public art gallery. Join artists, community members, and art enthusiasts for the opening ceremony as the latest collection of large-scale works is revealed, transforming the alley once again with fresh inspiration and creativity.

Beyond Artist Alley, visitors can enjoy everything that makes First Friday a favorite downtown tradition. Browse local shops and boutiques, discover artists and makers, enjoy live music and entertainment, and sample food and beverages from downtown restaurants and vendors. Whether you’re looking for a night out with friends, a family-friendly outing, or a chance to explore downtown, Arts, Beats & Eats offers something for everyone.

First Fridays are themed, arts-forward community events that celebrate the people, businesses, and creative energy that make downtown Kokomo unique. Each month offers a different experience, encouraging residents and visitors alike to explore, connect, and support local.

Keep the fun going with First Friday After Hours, featuring select downtown bars, pubs, shops, and venues open after 8 p.m. for guests ages 21 and older with expanded offerings, live music, and entertainment.

The awesomeness that will be First Fridays in 2026 is here!

What is First Friday?

First Fridays are themed, arts-forward community nights that turn downtown Kokomo into a hub of creativity, connection, and local flavor. Held on the first Friday of select months, the event invites people to explore downtown through extended business hours, local vendors, live entertainment, and hands-on experiences.

On First Fridays, downtown shops, restaurants, and organizations stay open late, welcoming guests with specials, pop-ups, art, music, and behind-the-scenes looks at what makes Kokomo’s downtown unique. Streets and storefronts buzz with local artists, makers, and businesses sharing their work and connecting with the community.

Each event features a rotating theme inspired by the season, local culture, or the arts — so no two First Fridays feel the same. Whether you’re coming with family, friends, or flying solo, there’s always something new to discover.

Stick Around for After Hours

First Friday After Hours, where the 21+ crowd can indulge in downtown Kokomo’s night life past the regular event hours of First Fridays. Select bars, pubs, shops, and event venues will remain open with expanded offerings. You can even find live music and entertainment as well. First Friday After Hours is a great way to celebrate the end of a long work week.

First Friday After Hours will continue after 8 p.m. and is for guests ages 21 and older only.

Special thanks to our First Friday Presenting Partner!

WANT TO GET INVOLVED IN FIRST FRIDAY?

Want to be part of the energy of First Fridays? Anyone can get involved! Whether you’re a business, artist, organization, or vendor, participation starts with a simple sign-up. And if you’re not located in downtown Kokomo, no worries — you’ll simply need to partner with a downtown participant. Easy peasy!

The information below will walk you through everything you need to know to get involved and help you have the best possible experience at each First Friday event.

Get involved!

Getting involved is easy! Just fill out the online form to let the Greater Kokomo Downtown Association know who you are and how you’d like to participate in First Fridays.

Click here to get started

Engage with the community!

All signed up but lacking inspiration? We’ve got you covered. Our planning materials include activity ideas to help you engage the community, plus optional guidance for incorporating each month’s theme in a way that works for you.

Get inspired here!

Promote your participation!

Don’t forget to spread the word! We provide ready-to-use marketing materials to help you promote your participation and let the community know how they can find you during First Fridays.

Download Marketing Materials

Let’s get social!

Last, but certainly not least, connect with us on social media to get all the latest and greatest event information!

First Friday

Downtown District