Take it to the Streets In Oil City: First Fridays are Back!

We recently received a fantastic invitation from Jodi at Cork n Screw Wines, one of the core organizers of First Fridays in Oil City. They are looking to partner with the Art Syndicate to make this year’s First Friday street fairs the most vibrant ones yet.

There is a unique power in bringing the “party” outside. A street lined with tents tells the community that the creative pulse of our town is alive and well. As Jodi noted in her email to us, “many people who are out enjoying the street fair will stop at a tent.” Being on the street gives you the chance to meet neighbors, find new collectors, and talk about the process behind your work. Plus, let’s be honest, between the music and the atmosphere, these events are just a ton of fun.

Promotional graphic for Oil City First Fridays event featuring details about the location, time, and activities including arts, vendors, food, and drinks. Highlights live music each month.

2026 First Friday Dates: Mark Your Calendars!

First Fridays on Seneca Street return for the 2026 season, kicking off in May. These events feature live music, food, drinks, and a variety of arts and vendors from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

May 1st (Season Kickoff!)
June 5th
July 3rd
August 7th
September 4th

Sign Up Now For May 1st! Deadline April 15th – Event Details:

The first event of the season kicks off on Friday, May 1st. If you want to be part of the street fair, here is the “need-to-know”:

The Deadline to Sign Up: April 15th, 2026
Event Hours: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Set-up: Seneca Street closes at 3:30 PM for vendor unloading.
Cost: Only $10 for a 10’ x 10’ space (Electricity is an extra $5, but those spaces are limited).
Payment: Fees are collected in cash on the evening of the event.

A lively street fair featuring vendor booths with blue and black tents, people walking and browsing, and a sign for a winery in the background.

How to Register

To secure your spot for the May 1st kickoff, you must email jodi@corknscrewwines.com by April 15th with the following info:

Business Name (if applicable)
Items you will be selling
Primary contact person for the day
Cell phone number
Electricity needs (Remember to bring your own extension cords!)

For the latest news, vendor maps, and event highlights, make sure to follow the official First Friday page: https://www.facebook.com/p/Oil-City-First-Fridays-61575287743618/

Three women smiling at a market stall, holding flowers, with jars of flowers on the table in front of them. A street scene is visible in the background.

Pro-Tips for the Street

Bring Change: First Fridays are historically cash-heavy. Don’t rely on local shops for change—come prepared with your own “bank.”
Tents and Tables: You are responsible for your own setup. Make sure your display can handle a little wind!
Wait for the Map: Once you’re confirmed, Jodi and the committee will email a vendor map so you know exactly where to drop your gear.

Let’s Represent!

We would love to see a “Syndicate Row” of tents showing the town exactly what we’re capable of. If you have questions or want to coordinate with other members on ride-sharing or display ideas, bring it up in the Discord or at our next Syndicate meeting on the 28th!

Stay creative,

Rafi & Klee