DoRaleighRaleigh Event Guide: First Friday May 2nd Edition
First Fridays in Raleigh are back and bigger than ever! Whether you’re a local or just visiting, May’s First Friday is packed with art, music, shopping, and community fun across the city. Here’s your all-in-one guide to the best events happening Friday, May 2, 2025.
Art, Creativity & Culture
Artspace May First Friday 5PM–10PM @ Artspace Explore live art demos, open studios, and interactive exhibits. (held space) by Caprice McNeill 6PM–8PM @ Gallery C Reflective visual art that captures intimate spaces of memory and presence. Arts Access Gallery – Kaleidoscope Exhibition 6PM–9PM @ Arts Access Gallery Celebrating artists of all abilities in a colorful, dynamic display. First Friday at CAM 6PM–9PM @ CAM Raleigh Contemporary art exhibitions with live music, food trucks, and community vibes. Celebrate First Friday with Glenwood Fine Art 6PM–8PM @ Glenwood Fine Art First Friday at Curate Raleigh 6PM–9PM @ Curate Raleigh First Friday at CoLab: Figured Out 6PM–11PM @ The Carter Building
Live Music & Nightlife
Better Days Live Music Series feat. Colin Cutler & The Rattletraps 5PM–9PM @ Hartwell First Friday at Slim’s with Kudzu Drew Doors 4:30PM / Live 9PM–11PM @ Slim’s Downtown First Friday Live Music: Daddy’s Soda @ The Davie Brass Transit: The Music of Chicago with the NC Symphony 12PM & 8PM Friday; 8PM Saturday @ NC Symphony First Friday Cocktail Mixer & DJ Party @ The Architect Bar and Social House First Friday Ladies Night @ The Merchant Plant Portraits + Live DJ! 6PM–9PM @ Copperline Plant Co. First Friday at The Times 7PM–11PM @ The Raleigh Times Bar
Hands-On & Family Fun
Make & Take a Raleigh Acorn Bell @ Designed For Joy Fiber Friends Night – Unwind. Connect. Create. 5PM–7PM @ Parcero Studio Music Bingo 6PM–8PM @ Clyde Cooper’s BBQ First Friday Slow Roll Bike Parade 6PM Meet / 6:30PM Roll @ Oak City Cycling Project After Dark Sip ‘n Shop 6PM–8PM @ Origami Styling
Don’t Miss: Special Exhibits & Community Events
Street Requiem 6:30PM–8PM @ Moore Square A stirring outdoor musical tribute honoring those affected by homelessness. The Endless Grind: Raleigh’s Skate History Exhibit 6PM–9PM @ City of Raleigh Museum An archival photography exhibit celebrating the city’s skateboarding scene. First Friday at Morgan Street Food Hall 5PM–10PM Food, drinks, and local vendors in one lively spot. First Friday Flashes at Le Dive with Old Ghosts Tattoo 5PM–10PM @ Le Dive
Fuel Up Early
Feel Good Fridays at The Mecca! 7:30AM–2PM @ The Mecca Restaurant Start your day with a classic Raleigh breakfast and soulful energy.
Ready to Do Raleigh?
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