First Friday

First Friday: Find Out What's Going On!

Jun 24, 2025

The monthly celebration of art, music, local businesses, and restaurants in the Canton Arts District will be celebrated on Friday, July 11th and Saturday, July 12th.

July | Downtown Canton Blues & BBQ Festival

First (Second) Friday - Downtown Canton Blues & BBQ Festival - July 11th & 12th

Because of the normal First Friday date falling on July 4th, we are doing Second Friday…..Also Saturday to! We will be hosting the Downtown Canton Blues & BBQ Festival. (Presented by the IBEW Local 540) The Event is Friday, July 11th, from 5:00 pm-9:30 pm and Saturday, July 12th, from 2:00 pm-9:00 pm.

The Blues and BBQ Fest will feature live performances from incredible blues artists from Northeast Ohio, feast on delicious BBQ from a variety of local vendors, sip on brews in our Craft Beer Tent (Proceeds benefit the Canton Palace Theatre’s remodel project), and soak up the summer vibes! We will also still have the Kidz Zone presented by CSE Federal Credit Union and your favorite First Friday Vendors!

The full list of entertainment is below!

Friday Night Line Up
DJ Krooze 5:00 pm-5:45 pm
Austin Walkin’ Cane 5:45 pm-7:30 pm
DJ Krooze 7:30 pm-7:45 pm
Bob Frank Trio 7:45 pm- 9:30 pm

Saturday Night Line Up
Willis Gordon Band 2:30 pm-4:30 pm
DJ Krooze 4:30 pm- 5:00 pm
Jake Friel Band 5:00 pm- 7:00 pm
DJ Krooze 7:00 pm- 7:30 pm
The Blue Lunch Band 7:30 pm- 9:30 pm

​​Looking for places to make a dinner reservation or grab a drink?

Explore all of the Downtown Canton restaurants here. Did you know that Downtown Canton has a DORA (Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area) where you can take your drinks to-go to enjoy shopping, live music, and more on the streets?

Looking for more information about how you can become a vendor at ArtsinStark First Friday or your business can showcase a special offer?

Explore the Canton First Friday website or email firstfriday@artsinstark.com.

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Willis Brienza

Author

Willis Brienza

Creative Coordinator

Willis Brienza is the Creative Coordinator for Visit Canton. He enjoys movies, music, sports, and spending time with friends and family! Willis resides in Alliance with his fiance, Rosie, and their two dogs! Have an update or comment about the blog? Reach out at willisb@visitcanton.com.
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