Coordinated by the Watauga Arts Council (WAC) in partnership with the Downtown Boone Development Association, First Friday highlights a range of creative experiences happening throughout town. Residents and visitors can explore local art, connect with artists, experience live music, and attend special events across multiple locations.
Highlights for June include:
Disco Club Night at Wildcraft Eatery (9-12 p.m.)- Stop by Wildcraft Eatery for a club night with DJ Dumpsta J spinning an eclectic variety of vinyl records from the global vault! 21+, $5 cover.
Jazz-Inspired Collage Night at Betty’s Biscuits (5-8 p.m.) - Celebrate WAC’s newest exhibit, The Art of Jazz, a complement to the High Country Jazz Festival, with a Jazz-Inspired Collage Night at Betty’s Biscuits! All materials are provided, a cash bar will be available, and you’ll get to create with members of the WAC crew.
29th Anniversary Fundraiser Show at NTH Degree Gallery (7 p.m.) - Artwork from studio members, snacks, games, and a screenprinting station (bring your own shirt!).
First Friday at the Turchin Center (5-8 p.m.) - Explore contemporary exhibitions, meet local artists, and enjoy free admission.
Live Music at SouthEnd Brewing (6-9 p.m.) - Bob Bonnen will be performing on the patio stage.
Buckets N Boards at App Theatre (6-7:45 p.m.) - A hilarious, family-friendly show featuring percussion, tap dancing, inventive instruments, and musical comedy. Tickets available on the App Theatre website.
Live Music at Lost Province (6-9 p.m.) - Featuring the Tim McWilliams Band, a country and bluegrass group from Asheville.
Art Market at FizzEd (5-8 p.m.) - Shop handmade work from various local artists.
Summer Concert at the Jones House (5:30 p.m.) - Wilson Ridge Roundabouts and Nest of Singing Birds kick off the 2026 Summer Concert Series.
Blue Ridge Fiber Guild Reception at the Jones House (5-7 p.m.) - Stop by for the group's opening gallery exhibition reception.
Rodney Bursiel at the Speckled Trout Outfitters (6-7 p.m.) - Meet 2017 National Geographic Photographer of the Year Rodney Bursiel for a conservation talk, Q&A, live music, and more.
Letters from Stella @Ellison (4-7 p.m.) - Create letters for loved ones using free crafting materials and stamps
Don’t forget to check out the local artists and Youth Makers who will be stationed along King Street and the Turchin Center sidewalks from 4-8 p.m. selling handmade goods.