On the first Friday of each month, neighbors and visitors flock to the RiNo Art District to experience visual art exhibitions, explore artist studios, and take in the district’s creative energy. This year, the art walk expands into a new, FREE First Friday Festival series with live performances, food, visual art, local vendors, and more from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m. at the ArtPark at Arkins Park.
For the Friday, May 1, 2026, you can expect:
Live Music (sets begin at 6 p.m. and 7:10 p.m.)
Denver locals Chouette meld rhythms and melodies from around the globe, with each set featuring a combination of jazz, bossa nova, musette, and pop tunes, in partnership with Think 360 Arts for Learning.
Contemporary Visual Art Exhibitions & Hands-On Art Experiences
In the Studio opens at the Truss House Gallery, featuring work by more than 20 artists currently based in RiNo Art District’s subsidized studio space programs.
This invitational exhibition offers a rare glimpse into the processes and ideas unfolding within these working spaces today, including reflections on their studio practice and the creative lives behind the work on view, ultimately highlighting the vital role that artist studios have played in shaping the district over the past 20 years.
Courtney Ozaki-Durgin (Japanese Arts Network + AKAIYA Productions) hosts hands-on workshops exploring immersive theatre and creative storytelling.
Local Vendors
May’s participating vendors include TacoNation, Black Knife Bakery, ghosttownglazed pottery, Mactzil Mexican Artisan Boutique, stayfoolish vintage clothing, Pardon My French & Co. natural cosmetics & fragrances, and visual artists including Marcus Macabre, Shadae Hunt, Oak Bloak Creations, and JUHB.
Part of Something Bigger
The May 1 event kicks off a three-part First Friday Festivals series, inviting the community into a season of free, multi-generational gatherings across RiNo Art District. Additional festivals will take place on August 7 and September 4, with evolving lineups of live music, local vendors, and participating artists.
RiNo Art District will also partner with the Denver Fringe Festival on Friday, June 5, as part of the citywide festival running June 3 to 7, 2026. More details will be announced throughout the season.
RiNo ArtPark at Arkins Park, 1900 35th St. in Denver.
Want More Fun Things To Do?
Look at our full events calendar, where you can type in any date, or check out what’s happening over the next few days right here:
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