First Friday. You may have heard of it. The tradition has been going strong since 1991.

On the first Friday evening of each month, there’s no need to wonder how to start your weekend. This is the night when the art galleries of Old City stay open from 5–9 pm. It’s a casual, open house, wander from place to place kind of event. It’s wonderful.

Some galleries have new art shows, others have free cocktails, and they’ll all give you a chance to mingle with all kinds of art lovers. And we do mean all kinds. Some galleries are high-brow, and some are they type with cans of PBR in coolers and street art on the walls. And exactly because it’s so diverse, we love every inch of it.

Most of the best spots can be found in the blocks between Front and Third, between Market and Vine—but don’t stick just to the box, because there are some real sweet spots beyond the borders, too.

Plus, it’s the perfect pregame before heading out for a night on the town.

Insider tips and more: visitphilly.com