Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 30, 2025

Kick Off Summer with First Fridays in Downtown Aurora
Live music, local art, delicious food, and summer fun throughout the city

Aurora, Illinois — Downtown Aurora welcomes summer with open arms as First Fridays lights up the city center on Friday, June 6, transforming the area into a lively celebration of community, creativity, and commerce. From 5 to 9 p.m., residents and visitors are invited to explore local shops, galleries, cafes, and community spaces for an unforgettable evening of discovery and entertainment.

With a mix of one-night-only specials, family-friendly activities, sidewalk sales, and musical performances, June’s First Fridays promises something for everyone. Businesses are pulling out all the stops to mark the occasion: Alice's Corner is offering a free drink with the purchase of any sandwich, while Amore Mio is pouring complimentary wine samples. At Aurora Tap House, the night will be soundtracked by Velvet Rose performing live. Ballydoyle Irish Pub is mixing up $25 martini flights, and Dairy Queen is celebrating 75 years in Downtown Aurora with a Buy One, Get One cone special.

New summer flavors and signature cocktails are on full display at Giardino Trattoria, Society 57, Tavern on Broadway, Tecalitlan, and Touché French Creole. Dapper Brews Coffee invites visitors to cool down with affogatos and cold brew floats, while Color Salon Suites is offering new renters one month free on a one-year lease.

Local favorites like Hope Chest, Offbeat Vintage, Superjumbo Records, and Undisputed Vintage will feature sales, sidewalk events, and Pride Month specials. Family and art-friendly stops include The Perch, Wyckwood House with DJ Katie, Archetype Stained Glass, and the always-unique ArtBar at Two Brothers Roundhouse.
Gallery shows, live music, and artist showcases can also be found at If These Walls Could Talk, Seven Setting Suns, The Cornucopia Tea & Gift Shop, Yellow Bird Books, and Zen Loft. At Nide Jardin, visitors will find more than just plants—they’ll discover a vibrant, inclusive sanctuary celebrating self-care and culture. "Seeing our community come to our downtown for First Fridays while supporting all the small businesses, artists, and performers has been my driving force in creating a space like Nide Jardin," said Nancy Martinez, owner of Nide Jardin. "On First Fridays, we get to witness the heartbeat of Aurora—neighbors connecting, cultures celebrated, and creativity thriving. It’s more than an event; it’s a reminder of why we invest in our local economy and why spaces like ours exist—to uplift, inspire, and belong."

Meanwhile, community partners like Challenge II Change, Community Advocacy Awareness Network, and the Aurora Public Library District are hosting interactive pop-ups, expos, and live readings that reflect the city’s vibrant and inclusive spirit.

Entertainment venues like La Quinta de los Reyes, Red Room on NY, and The Venue will keep the music going into the evening. This month, The Venue features a performance by Flood, a dynamic 4-piece R&B/Rock band from Chicago known for their jazz-infused funk and soul style.

Museums and historic sites will also open their doors, with special exhibitions at the Aurora Historical Society, the Grand Army of the Republic Museum, and free CPR classes hosted by the Aurora Regional Fire Museum in honor of CPR & AED Awareness Month.

Additional First Fridays experiences include art demonstrations, community resources, and limited-time promotions across more than 40 participating businesses.

A full event map and guide will be posted on social media and distributed through downtown storefronts. Follow @DowntownAuroraAlliance on Instagram and @AuroraDowntown on Facebook for the latest updates.
For more information, visit: www.auroradowntown.org

About the Aurora Regional Economic Alliance (Alliance)
The Aurora Regional Economic Alliance (Alliance) is an Economic Development and Chamber of Commerce corporation charged with fostering equitable and sustainable economic growth. By joining forces through the Alliance, the region presents a unified front in support of existing businesses, amplifies the voices of women- and minority-owned entrepreneurs, and attracts investment. The Alliance complements Aurora’s development initiatives by marketing the city’s competitive advantages and supporting inclusive economic expansion.