Music on Main: First Fridays are back!

Apr 28, 2025

The winter chill and April showers are officially behind us, and that can only mean one thing - First Friday season is upon us! Each year, this celebration of Downtown Canton gets bigger and better, and 2025 is no exception. Here's everything you need to know about taking part in one of Canton's most beloved annual traditions!

What is First Friday?

First Fridays are Downtown Canton's biggest events of the year. Taking place on (you guessed it) the first Friday of each month, East Main St. is closed to vehicle traffic, world-class music takes the stage in Cannon Park, and the community comes together to kickstart the weekend.

Arrive hungry, because you'll definitely want to dine-in at one of the many amazing restaurants in Downtown before the show. Or, if you prefer, stay in the middle of the action by filling up on flavorful street food from a selection of food trucks and vendors along East Main St.

As always, First Fridays are free to attend, and so is parking.

Free monthly outdoor concerts all summer long? That's how we do things in Canton.

The 2025 Lineup

Canton locals and visitors have come to expect nothing less than an epic First Friday lineup, and this year certainly won't disappoint. With familiar favorites returning, in addition to all-new acts taking the stage for the first time, you'll be wishing every Friday was First Friday! Here's who we'll be rocking out to this summer:

May 2: Radio 80s Band

The 80s called... They want you at First Friday on May 2!

Kicking off the 2025 First Friday season with high-energy flair is Radio 80s Band, known for transporting audiences back to the days of big hair and even bigger hits. From fan-favorite Bon Jovi ballads to the roaring choruses of Journey, this band covers all the essential tracks that made the decade iconic.

June 6: The Troubadour Project

Back by popular demand for the third year in a row, this First Friday favorite returns to Cannon Park on June 6. The Troubadour Project blends the best of 1970s rock and with their unmatched stage presence, making this show a unique experience you simply can't miss. You're in for a night that celebrates the '70s' heaviest-hitters, from glam rock to the arena-shaking sounds of bands like Queen, Led Zeppelin, and Electric Light Orchestra.

July 11: Bumpin' the Mango

Another First Friday veteran that Canton can't get enough of! Bumpin' the Mango hits the stage on July 11 (please note, this specific show is on the second Friday in July.)

Celebrated as "Atlanta's top funk & soul band," this 10-piece outfit has First Friday fans consistently coming back for more of their highly energetic performances and original songs you just can't help dancing along to.

August 1: The Celebrity All Star Band

This is a band that knows how to party! The Celebrity All Star Band is a powerhouse supergroup featuring former members of Earth, Wind & Fire, the Eagles, and touring bands for legends like Billy Joel, Stevie Wonder, and more. With talent pulled from some of the biggest names across all genres, The Celebrity All Star Band delivers a show that has something for everyone— modern pop, classic rock, dance hits, and everything in between.

Don't miss your chance to catch "the ultimate party band" live in Downtown Canton on August 1!

September 5: On the Border

Get ready to take it to the limit—On the Border: The Ultimate Eagles Tribute is coming back to Downtown Canton! As seen on AXS TV’s "The World’s Greatest Tribute Bands," this group has made waves nationwide and are known for their signature five-part harmonies and spot-on renditions of the Eagles’ most iconic hits.

On September 5, we invite you to take it easy and unwind to the timeless sounds of the Eagles.

October 3: Chris Cagle

Saddle up and dust off those cowboy boots! Closing out a stacked First Friday season is none other than chart-topping country music sensation Chris Cagle! Known for hits like I Breathe In, I Breathe Out, Laredo, and What a Beautiful Day, Cagle is set to deliver an unforgettable season finale on October 3 that will have you singing along and dancing under the stars.

A few more details...

You know the lineup, now here's the rundown of everything you need to know before you get here:

📍First Friday events take place at Cannon Park and along East Main Street in Historic Downtown Canton (130 East Main St., Canton, GA.)

⌚ The festivities kick off at 6 p.m., but we encourage you to arrive early to experience everything Downtown Canton has to offer!

🚗While street parking on East Main St. is unavailable during First Friday events, there is plenty of free parking just a few steps away. Be sure to check out our Downtown parking map HERE for more information. Alternatively, catch the free park & ride shuttle from The Mill on Etowah (the pickup point is at the flag pole adjacent to Community Burger and Rock N Roll Sushi.)

🪑Camping chairs are welcome, but please do not set them out before 7 a.m. on the day of the show - they will be subject to removal. For everyone's safety, we also ask that walkways are kept clear at all times.

We can't wait to see you all at First Friday this year! Be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for updates and tag @ExploreCanton in your pictures - we'd love to see them!

Author

Michael Loizou

Digital Content Specialist; City of Canton, GA

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