My FIRST time experiencing First Friday

From 1994 to 2025, First Friday remains San Antonio’s longest-lasting mixed-media showcase, with multiple art galleries, museums, studios, and vintage boutiques. This past Friday (4/4/25), I visited the Blue Star Arts Complex for the first time and experienced First Friday. My night consisted of live music, art, and a sense of community that made the experience unforgettable. Whether you’re an artist, collector, or just someone looking for something fun to do on a Friday night, First Friday has something for everyone.

Walking through the complex, I felt surrounded by creativity. Every gallery I visited had its own unique vibe. Out of all the places I explored, my favorite was the Flight Gallery. The space was small but packed with amazing authors and artists, who I was able to have great conversations with. The exhibit that stood out to me the most was the work of Juan Tejeda, a 72-year-old retired professor of Mexican American Studies and Music, he is also a writer, publisher, musician, and activist. He spoke about his time at First Friday and how it has developed. He used to play his accordion to crowds at the very first, First Friday events. I was able to ask him if he had noticed any changes over the years, and he replied, " I don't exactly know how it has changed if it has expanded or if it has grown, or if it has gone down from those early days. From what I heard there are still pretty good crowds, but this is the only event that I have done the last two years at First Friday in many years.” Tejeda went on to describe the many books he has written and published about Native and Chicano culture such as his most recent book "Mi Carnal Frank", a family memoir, and Biography of U.S. Congressman Frank Mariano Tejeda Jr. I also got to meet Gabi Magaly, another amazing author whose work focused on personal and cultural heritage. Her book “Dear Frank, I wish… Love Gabi” is raw, honest, and beautifully done. Her book describes love, loss, and self-discovery, as Gabi pieces herself back together, learning what it means to stand in her power truly. As a photographer for El Placazo, I was busy the whole night capturing everything I saw. From people laughing, musicians playing, artists talking about their work, and small details like the way the light hit a canvas just right. I left the night with amazing photos and memories.

Author: Alyssa Medellin

El Placazo Assistant, Mural Artist and CECLEF Scholarship recipient. 
​Photography: Alyssa Medellin