First Fridays took a bit of hiatus in 2020 (you know, pandemic things), but they’re finally back in action. However, the festival will bear little resemblance to 2019 First Fridays, however, fear not as these changes are decidedly for the better.

First up, the footprint has grown significantly. The party is taking over 16 entire blocks of downtown. For those of you keeping count at home, yeah, that is nearly 1/3rd of all downtown. Ladies and gentlemen, we may be having ourselves the biggest block party on the east coast. People will be flooding the streets of downtown to partake in the magic of music, chow, and drinks.  

Now importantly, this 16 block footprint is precisely three blocks bigger than the 13 blocks of Bourbon Street in New Orleans. But Norfolk’s not just throwing a more extravagant party than N’awlins; we’re matching them on the drinks as well. For the first time, downtown bars and restaurants will be serving drinks instead of the DNC beer tents. Yes, the long-requested dream of First Friday attendees has become a reality. You’ll now be able to drop into over TWO DOZEN bars and restaurants, order a drink and rejoin the street-side festivities. The booze barons that run Virginia’s alcohol programs have sent down new rules, and they are a doozy. The taps and wells of Granby street’s finest establishments will be flowing freely into the streets. 

Of course, the drinks aren’t the only reason we love these street parties. The music keeps the people dancing and the crowd’s energy up. First Friday’s new setup includes THREE stages. That’s right, the amount of music and opportunities to shuffle in the street have tripled. Leading the jams for the night is one of Norfolk’s favorite music men, the legendary DJ Supladies. 

The shenanigans in store for you this Friday are impossible to predict fully, but one thing is sure: you’re gonna have a heck of a good time out there. It’s the first of the new era of First Fridays, so come on down to Granby Street, pop some bottles, and celebrate your city. 

BTW, Norfolk Currents will have a tent and all your favorite merch. Come by our tent and mention this article for a free sticker. If you missed our first ever popup at Smartmouth’s Norfolk Day, check out the recap here:

Paul Stetson Rice

Chelsea, NFK

Paul is the creator of NFKVA.com. He was born and raised in Norfolk, graduated from Virginia Tech, and narrowly avoided law school. Chat with him about economics, entrepreneurship, hip-hop, and hiking. When he's not working on five different projects, you'll catch him sharing a beer with friends at a local brewery. Go Hokies!