Columbia City Connect is thrilled to announce the return of First Fridays for the 2026 season–bringing an exciting lineup of themed evenings, live music, and community fun to downtown Columbia City.
Kicking off on Friday, May 1, First Fridays will take place from 6-9 PM on the first Friday of each month through October (with no event in July due to the city’s annual fireworks celebration). This year’s lineup is packed with can’t-miss themes, interactive experiences, and plenty of opportunities to shop, dine and support your favorite local businesses.
2026 First Fridays Themes & Dates:
- May 1 – Touch-A-Truck & The Launchpad
Climb, explore, and discover with an impressive lineup of heavy equipment—including a rotator, a new big rig, excavator, and more. Plus shop The Launchpad, a youth entrepreneurial market featuring products and creativity from local young talent. Enjoy live music by The Trainwreckers (country/classic rock). - June 5 – Motorcycles & Markets
A high-energy evening featuring motorcycles on display, local vendors, and a lively downtown atmosphere. Live music by The Wailhounds (psychedelic groovy blues/rock). - August 7 – Carnival on the Square
Step right up for classic carnival fun, games, and entertainment for the whole family. Live music by Los Electro (Latin dance/rock). - September 4 – Game On! / Movie on the Square
An interactive evening of games followed by an outdoor movie on the courthouse lawn at dusk. Live music by Todd Harold Trio (classic soul/blues). - October 2 – Fall in Love with Downtown
Celebrate the season with cozy fall vibes, shopping, and festive experiences. Live music by Cicada (indie rock).
“First Fridays continues to be one of our favorite ways to bring the community together, creating a space for people to connect, celebrate and enjoy time downtown,” said First Fridays Committee Chair, Jordan Esterline. “We’ve put together a dynamic and fun-filled season that we hope will draw both familiar faces and new visitors to experience the heart of our community.”
Each event will feature extended shopping hours from downtown businesses, local dining, pop-up vendors and unique experiences throughout downtown. Columbia City Connect invites residents and visitors alike to mark their calendars, gather their friends and family and make plans to enjoy each First Friday this season.
