Oakland First Fridays is more than just a street festival, it’s a hub for business owners, artists, and creatives to connect, grow, and showcase their work. This event acts as a small business incubator, a marketing platform for the district, and a community engagement space that fosters safety, positivity, and connection in Oakland. Over the years, our city has seen countless beloved events disappear, and with only a few major annual gatherings left, First Fridays stands out as the only major monthly celebration keeping Oakland’s spirit alive. As a nonprofit, we are working toward sustainability, but we can’t do it alone, the community built this event, and it will take the community to keep it thriving. Our goal is to raise $100,000 this year to enhance the experience and close the funding gap. Every dollar counts, and your support will help ensure Oakland First Fridays continues to bring joy, opportunity, and connection for years to come.