Oakland First Fridays is more than a street festival — it is a cultural movement, an economic engine, and a gathering space that reflects the heart and soul of Oakland. Every month, we create opportunities for small businesses, artists, performers, food vendors, and local creatives to connect with the community, grow their brands, and showcase the incredible talent that makes our city special.

For many entrepreneurs, First Fridays serves as a small business incubator and marketing platform. For families and residents, it is a place of joy, culture, connection, and positive community engagement. In a time when Oakland has seen many beloved events and safe gathering spaces disappear, Oakland First Fridays remains one of the only major monthly celebrations keeping the spirit, creativity, and energy of our city alive.

But sustaining something this impactful takes all of us.

As a nonprofit organization, we are working hard to build a sustainable future for Oakland First Fridays — one rooted in safety, culture, opportunity, and community pride. However, we cannot do it alone. This event was built by the community, and it will take the community standing together to keep it thriving for future generations.

Our goal is to raise $100,000 this year to help close critical funding gaps, expand programming, improve safety measures, support local artists and businesses, and continue delivering the vibrant experience Oakland deserves.

We are calling on our community, local businesses, sponsors, partners, and supporters to invest in the future of Oakland. Every donation, sponsorship, share, and word of support makes a difference. Together, we can protect one of Oakland’s most important cultural platforms and ensure Oakland First Fridays continues to inspire joy, opportunity, creativity, and connection for years to come.

Please join us by making a contribution that well keep the culture alive!