First Friday Gallery Openings in San Francisco

The most social way to experience San Francisco’s art scene.

First Thursday (and sometimes First Friday) gallery openings are a beloved tradition in San Francisco. Here’s everything you need to know about this monthly art ritual.

What Are First Thursdays?

The first Thursday of each month, galleries across San Francisco open new exhibitions with evening receptions. These events are:

  • Free and open to the public
  • Social — Meet artists, collectors, and fellow art lovers
  • Often include wine, beer, or snacks
  • The best way to see new shows and engage with the art community

Some galleries do First Fridays instead, and others hold openings on Saturdays. But “First Thursday” is the core of SF’s gallery night tradition.

Why Go?

It’s Free

Gallery openings cost nothing. Walk in, look at art, have a glass of wine.

Meet Artists

Many openings feature the artist, who’s often happy to discuss their work.

The Social Scene

Openings are where the SF art community gathers — from collectors to casual art fans.

See Multiple Shows

Hit several galleries in one evening, each with a new exhibition.

Major First Thursday Destinations

Minnesota Street Project

The easiest First Thursday experience. Multiple galleries in one building means you can see 5+ openings without walking more than a few steps.

Address: 1275 Minnesota Street, Dogpatch

Typical opening hours: 5-8 PM

Galleries:

  • Altman Siegel
  • Jessica Silverman
  • Ratio 3
  • Anglim/Trimble
  • And more

Union Square Area

The more traditional gallery district, with openings scattered across downtown.

Galleries:

  • Gagosian
  • Berggruen Gallery
  • Fraenkel Gallery

Mission District

Alternative spaces and artist-run galleries.

Spaces:

  • Southern Exposure
  • The Lab
  • Root Division (check dates)

First Thursday Tips

Plan Ahead

Not every gallery opens on First Thursday. Check which galleries have openings before heading out.

Use Arting to see current exhibitions and opening dates in one place.

Arrive Early or Late

  • 5-6 PM — Less crowded, more time with art
  • 6-7 PM — Peak crowd, most social
  • 7-8 PM — Crowd thins, relaxed conversation

Pace Yourself

If you’re hitting multiple openings:

  • Start at Minnesota Street Project (efficient)
  • Pick 3-4 shows max
  • Allow 15-20 minutes per gallery

What to Wear

Anything goes, from casual to dressed up. You’ll see everything from jeans to gallery black.

Don’t Be Shy

  • Sign the guest book
  • Ask gallery staff about the work
  • Talk to other visitors
  • Approach the artist (if present)

Beyond First Thursdays

Saturday Openings

Many galleries hold openings on Saturday afternoons (typically 3-6 PM). More relaxed than evening events.

Other Events

  • Museum member previews
  • Artist talks
  • Panel discussions
  • Art fairs (SF Art Week, FOG Design+Art)

First Thursday Calendar

First Thursdays in 2026:

  • January 2
  • February 6
  • March 6
  • April 3
  • May 1
  • June 5
  • July 3
  • August 7
  • September 4
  • October 2
  • November 6
  • December 4

Make It a Night Out

Dogpatch (around Minnesota Street)

  • Dinner at Piccino or Serpentine
  • Drinks at Third Rail or Dogpatch Saloon
  • Dinner on Valencia Street
  • Drinks at any of dozens of bars

Union Square

  • Dinner at any downtown restaurant
  • Cocktails at a hotel bar

How to Stay Informed

The Old Way

  • Check each gallery’s website
  • Follow galleries on Instagram
  • Sign up for 10+ email newsletters

The Easy Way

Download Arting — See all current exhibitions and upcoming openings in one app. No more checking multiple websites.