First Friday Festivals at ArtPark
First Friday Festivals at ArtPark is a free summer series celebrating the creativity that defines the RiNo Art District. Each month brings a new mix of live music, local Denver artists, hands-on experiences, and vendors—inviting you to wander, discover, and be part of the neighborhood’s ever-evolving creative energy.
As part of First Fridays Denver, this series builds on the long-standing tradition of the First Friday art walk Denver is known for.
Festival Schedule
The First Friday Festival unfolds across the summer, with each month bringing a new lineup of artists, musicians, and vendors as part of the broader First Friday Denver experience.
- May 1 (Season kickoff)
- June 5 (In collaboration with Denver Fringe)
- August 7
- September 4
Each event runs 4–9 PM and is free to attend.
More About the RiNo Art District First Friday Festival Series
For over 20 years, the RiNo Art District has worked to support artists and sustain the creative energy that defines this Denver art district. As a nonprofit, these festivals are part of that ongoing effort—creating space for artists to share their work, for small businesses to connect with new audiences, and for the community to come together around creativity.
The First Friday Festival is just one piece of a much bigger picture. Beyond the RiNo ArtPark, the district comes alive with open galleries, studio visits, street art, and restaurants joining in with their own First Friday offerings.
Start here, then wander. Explore what’s around the corner, follow what catches your eye, and experience the full creative pulse of the RiNo Art Walk and First Friday RiNo scene.
What to Expect
Every First Friday Festival follows a familiar rhythm, with a fresh lineup each month. Expect a mix of art, music, food, and hands-on experiences designed for all ages—hallmarks of the First Friday art walk tradition.
- Live local music
- Art exhibitions inside Truss House featuring rotating local Denver artists
- Curated vendor market with RiNo makers, vintage, and one-of-a-kind goods
- Food trucks with a range of options for dinner and snacks
- Family activities including drop-in art-making, games, and open play
Come to browse, stay to hang out; there’s space to explore, create, and connect during RiNo First Friday.
About the ArtPark at Arkins Park
This vibrant, evolving campus is a public park and creative hub at the heart of the RiNo Art District—designed as a place where art, community, and everyday life intersect.
Set within open green space along the South Platte River, the ArtPark brings together culture, recreation, and creativity in one shared environment. It’s home to the Truss House, a flexible performance and event space that hosts everything from exhibitions to live music and community gatherings, as well as artist studios and the Bob Ragland Branch of the Denver Public Library.
The site itself reflects RiNo’s commitment to adaptive reuse and community-driven development. Two historic buildings have been reimagined into an interdisciplinary arts campus—creating space for artists, small businesses, education, and neighborhood connection to thrive together.
Throughout the park, you’ll find murals by local artists, public art installations, and places to gather, relax, and explore. Whether you’re here for a festival, a workshop, or just passing through, the ArtPark is meant to be experienced at your own pace.
Take a look at the ArtPark map to get your bearings, or dive into its history—and see how this space continues to grow as a home for creativity in RiNo.