It’s that time again. The first First Friday Scranton of the new school year. For those who don’t know what First Friday is, the local shops and galleries in Downtown Scranton all display artwork you can enjoy with wine and snacks. It’s a great way to experience and support local art with a few of your friends.

This particular First Friday shared a date with the Italian Festival, aka La Festa Italiana. Several Italian food vendors lined the streets near the courthouse and bands played throughout Downtown Scranton. A few of my friends and I were able to enjoy the combined festivities on the 1st this year. Some of the galleries we visited were AFA, Steamworks in the mall, and a few shops in Bogart Court.

Marywood’s own Christine Medley held an art supply swap in the new location of The Workshop with another Art Department teacher, John Meza on the guitar. A Marywood Art Department student and former blogger Samantha Stausser designed the sign in front of The Workshop for the swap.

There are always different things to see at First Friday. Not only do you get to see local art, but if you are not familiar with the area, it is a great way to find hidden gems you would never know of while walking around Downtown. I would definitely recommend going to every First Friday you can because each one is a different experience. I’ve been going to almost every one since February except for the ones during the summer break (due to the fact that I live too far) and each one has been different. I only wish I had started going sooner because it is always so much fun.

Some of the galleries hold Marywood Art Department students’ artwork, so you can support your fellow classmates as well. Be on the lookout for Marywood Art Department teachers too because some have shops while others are walking around to enjoy some of the art. It’s a great way to be a part of both Downtown Scranton’s and Marywood University Art Department’s community. I hope to see you there next First Friday if you’re in the area.