FIRST FRIDAYS
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
 

FAQs for Attendees:

What is First Fridays?

First Fridays is an amazing event that's been happening in historic downtown Columbia since 2017. It has recently transformed into a street event that is closed down to vehicle traffic so that approved vendors and food trucks can set up and sell items.

What months of the year does First Fridays take place?

First Fridays takes place on the first Friday of the month, from April through December. Historically, the event took place every month; however, due to lighting and weather, Columbia Main Street Corporation made the decision to forego January through March. 

Who manages First Fridays?

Columbia Main Street Corporation, in partnership with the City of Columbia, manages First Fridays.

Who is Columbia Main Street Corporation?

Columbia Main Street Corporation is a non-profit organization dedicated to the downtown district by creating a family-friendly destination through initiatives, events, and promotion of downtown businesses. 

Where does First Fridays take place?

First Fridays takes place on the West 7th block and half the Public Square in downtown will be closed off for First Fridays to ensure a secure and safe experience for attendees, vendors, and other participants.

What are the hours for First Fridays?

Hours are 5:00pm until 8:00pm.

Are the downtown shops open during First Fridays?

Great Question! It is up to the individual shops. We recommend you look for the shops that stay open a little later and the restaurants ready for hungry faces & thirsty patrons;

We heard about an event called Strolling on 6th. Is that part of First Fridays?

'Strolling on 6th' by Maury Alliance is a fabulous "sister" event to First Fridays, but separately run. It is located on 6th Street between Garden Street and North Main that's alive with activities and makes for a fun addition to First Fridays!

FAQs for Vendors: 

Who can participate in First Fridays?

• Vendor is defined as artisit, artisan, baker, boutique, church, crafter, farmer, local business, non-profit, and political interest 
• Food Truck is defined as a food trailer, food tent, and food truck with an active Mobile Vending Permit with the City of Columbia
• Street Performer is defined as acoustic musician and singer, performance group, and street entertainer
• Cruise-In Participant (limited availability) is defined as the owner of an antique, muscle, vintage, rare, and exotic vehicles
• Young Entrepreneur is defined as a young person(s) 12-17 years old who hand makes a product to sell 

What is the cost to be a vendor at First Fridays?

If approved, vendors will be required to pay a $25 vendor fee and food trucks will be required to pay a $90 food truck fee. 

Where does my vendor fee go?

Vendor fees are collected by Columbia Main Street Corporation (501c3) and are used to support the overall goal of the non-profit. 

Do I need vendor insurance?

Yes, as an approved vendor, you are required to carry a General Liability policy listing both Columbia Main Street and the City of Columbia as the additionally insureds. 

Can I vend on the sidewalks? 

No, sidewalk vending is not an option. If you wish to vend during First Fridays, we encourage you to apply through Columbia Main Street Corporation.