Now that the weather is ripe for evening strolls, Chester County and beyond is gearing up for First Fridays on the Main Streets of area towns. Held the first Friday of the month (or Second Saturday for Media), the events celebrate each town’s unique flavor and draw residents and out-of-towners to get to know local galleries, shops and restaurants.

  Inspired by the art gallery open houses started in 1991 in Old City Philadelphia, our local, free, fun, family-friendly Friday festivities typically begin in May and run until winter’s chill calls a halt. (Some eager towns already started the events in April.)

  To mark First Fridays, galleries, shops, businesses and restaurants offer extended hours, sponsor entertainment, serve refreshments and feature sales and other specials. From live music and shopping to art exhibits and restaurant specials, it’s easy to find the perfect way to enjoy a night out on these towns!

  Here are some highlights from around County Lines Country.

Kennett Square

  For a taste of small-town America, look no farther than Kennett Square, a charming, historic borough nestled in southern Chester County. Boasting a reputation for friendly hospitality, Kennett Square is also known as the Mushroom Capital of the World for its annual production of over a million pounds of the fungi and a not-to-be-missed Mushroom Festival in September.

  On First Fridays, shops and galleries stay open late for artisan demonstrations, special exhibits, refreshments and live music. These festivities also feature special Art Strolls, where downtown galleries and gift shops offer new art exhibits, artists’ receptions and refreshments.

  A “Beach Party” theme launched April’s First Friday, and next up is May’s “Cinco de Mayo,” so come ready to celebrate. August’s events center around the popular “Murder Mystery” Art Stroll, where visitors can solve the “who-dunnit” with help from characters played by the Kennett Amateur Theatrical Society (KATS).

Where: State Street area
When: 6 to 9 p.m.
Information: 610-444-8188; HistoricKennettSquare.com

Media

  Proudly called “everybody’s hometown” by residents, Media makes sure visitors feel welcome by its friendly atmosphere. The last suburban town in America with a trolley running down its main street, Media also offers brick sidewalks and tree-lined streets to make walking another inviting option.

  As an alternative to First Fridays, Media rolls out the welcome mat on Second Saturdays each month. Over 30 businesses on and around State Street stay open late as part of a free arts event. Shops, galleries, restaurants and cafés host local musicians and display works by local artists.

  During summer months, Media’s Wednesday nights celebrate “Dining Under the Stars,” another reason to visit this great town.

Where: State Street area    
When: 6 to 9 p.m. 
Information: 610-566-5039; MediaArts Council.org

Phoenixville

  Situated on the Schuylkill River and bisected by French Creek, this borough is known for its country charm and its celebration of the sci-fi movie “The Blob” each July during Blobfest. From art galleries and friendly shopkeepers to a landmark theater and fine dining along its restaurant row, Phoenixville is an ideal spot for your First Friday adventures.

  Rain or shine on First Friday, Phoenix-ville’s shops, restaurants, businesses and volunteer community groups hold special events and host street musicians, entertainers and outdoor concerts.

  Each First Friday has its own theme, with May’s “Pet Stroll” being a purr-fect start for pet-lovers. Mark your calendar for June’s “Dads and Grads” theme.

Where: Bridge Street area
When: 5 to 9 p.m.
Information: 484-880-1530; PhxFirstFriday.com

West Chester

  Named “one of the world’s most perfect small towns” by the Philadelphia Inquirer, downtown West Chester combines small-town charm with cosmopolitan tastes. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the entire downtown area represents a piece of history — from the building where Abraham Lincoln began his quest for the presidency to the place where American folk artist Horace Pippin lived and painted.   

  A special First Friday in June will feature a Gallery Walk, where galleries stay open late and feature art, artists, wine and live music. New this year, the Gallery Walk presents an exhibit “Size Matters,” with art from the Chester County Art Association, along with performances by Build-A-Band Music Education. This nonprofit music organization seeks to share the gift of music by helping musicians of all ages play in a rock band and learn the music they love.

  Can’t make Friday? Try West Chester’s Swingin’ Summer Thursdays on first Thursdays in June through September. Enjoy a free street festival on Gay Street with great food, live music, clowns, dancers and much more!

Where: Gay & Market Streets area
When: 5 to 9 p.m. 
Information: 610-738-3350; DowntownWestChester.com

Lancaster

  With a thriving urban center that’s home to almost 300 unique boutiques, restaurants, art galleries and entertainment and cultural venues, downtown Lancaster mixes a rich heritage with a surprising upscale, downtown vibe.

  Started in 1999, Lancaster’s First Fridays focus on showcasing the arts at over 70 arts venues, with new exhibitions, live music, theatrical performances, artist receptions and surprises that draw thousands to the events.

  From gallery walks and museums to restaurants and theaters, you’ll find the perfect way to experience Lancaster and enjoy its vibrant arts community.

  And on third Fridays from May to September, Downtown Lancaster and WXPN host Music Friday, with changing musical performances at locations around the city.

Where: Prince & Orange Streets area
When: 5 to 9 p.m.
Information: 717-509-2787; LancasterArts.com. -CL-