Downtown Bryan’s First Friday Celebrates 20 Years of Community & Culture

This fall marks a major milestone for one of Downtown Bryan’s most cherished traditions. On Friday, October 3, Downtown Bryan’s signature event, First Friday, will celebrate its 20th anniversary.
First Friday began back in 2005 as an art walk hosted by Downtown Bryan merchants including The Frame Gallery and is now an award-winning monthly event that draws thousands of people to Downtown Bryan. Today, First Friday is known for bringing the community together with live music, activities, Downtown Bryan businesses, and other local organizations.
“First Friday has become a staple event in Downtown Bryan because of the incredible support from our community,” said Caden Jones, Community Engagement Manager for Destination Bryan. “Whether that support be from participating in the event, attending a First Friday, or telling others about the event, we're so grateful to each and every person that has been a part of First Friday and made it the event it is today. We're excited to celebrate 20 years of First Friday and hope the entire community enjoys this event for years to come.”
On October 3, First Friday will feature all the activities attendees know and love, plus special additions to mark the anniversary. Guests can pick up a free commemorative First Friday t-shirt from Destination Bryan. Cars wrapped in Bryan Legends designs will also be on display. Created in partnership with Carvertise, these mobile displays celebrate Destination Bryan’s Bryan Legends campaign, with First Friday now joining the list. Destination Bryan will host the premiere of the First Friday Legends video near the intersection of Bryan Avenue and 26th Street, sharing the story of the event’s legacy over the past 20 years.
First Friday has been a driving factor in Downtown Bryan’s revitalization and growth over the last 2 decades. With thousands of attendees gathering each month, the event introduces Bryan-College Station residents and visitors to local restaurants, shops, and artists. The Frame Gallery, where First Friday began back in 2005, continues to participate during First Fridays, showing how the event has grown while still being rooted in its original vision to support downtown businesses and local artists.
“First Friday is always a great night to celebrate our community and spotlight the artistic talent that surrounds us every day,” said Missy Barron, owner of The Frame Gallery. “It’s a night that represents hope and renewal, and a reminder that it takes all of us working together to keep downtown growing and thriving.”
First Friday 20th Anniversary Event
When: Friday, October 3, 2025 | 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Where: Downtown Bryan
Details: https://www.destinationbryan.com/firstfriday/
First Friday will continue its 20th anniversary celebration throughout the year, inviting the community to take part in honoring two decades of the event.
Media Information
Media are invited to cover the October 3 event. Photos are available for download here. Anniversary branding is available upon request.
Media Contact:
Lina Adams
PR & Communications Coordinator
lina@destinationbryan.com