A monthly event designed to showcase and stimulate the cultural, intellectual, and entertainment talent in the Centre Region and to provide a venue for seminars, exhibits, performances, debate, and camaraderie year round.

First Thursday will take place at institutions throughout town and campus including the Palmer Museum, Pattee and Paterno Libraries, the Downtown Theater, and Schlow Centre Region Library; and at art galleries including the Artisan Connection, Creative Oasis, Douglas Albert Galleries, and Old Main Frame Shop. It is hoped that ultimately other venues, including coffee shops, restaurants, and other businesses, will join in the effort to make downtown State College THE place to be on the first Thursday of each month.

Beginning February 1, 2007, First Thursday will be held on the first Thursday of each month year-round. Activities may begin as early as noon and last until 9 p.m.

Many businesses are open for extended hours on Thursday and parking is free at all municipal street meters and municipal parking lots, including the McAllister Parking Deck.

On Street Parking Meters
Parking Lots - Located on Fraser Street, Beaver Avenue and Allen Street (across from Municipal Building)
McAllister Deck
Parking is NOT FREE in the Fraser, Beaver and Pugh Street Garages.

Most First Thursday events and exhibits will be free to the public.

The First Thursday web site (www.firstthursdaystatecollege.org) will contain upcoming information. In addition, information will be available in local media. Sandwich board signs will be placed outside participating venues on the day of the events.

Yes, although not all events will appeal to all ages. As the event grows, special age-appropriate activities may be designed specifically for children.

A collaboration of many groups including the Friends of Schlow, the Palmer Museum, the Penn State Libraries, the Downtown Theater, the Central Pennsylvania Festival of the Arts, the Downtown Improvement District, the Nittany Valley Symphony, and several independent galleries. Other interested organizations, businesses, and individuals are welcome to participate.

Who should I contact if my business or organization would like to participate?
Katie O'Toole
Friends of Schlow
238-1126
kxo1@psu.edu