Make a Day of It: What to Do During Summit First Thursday on May 7

Summit First Thursday is back on Thursday, May 7, and it is the perfect excuse to get out, see some art, try something new, and enjoy the creative energy of Summit.

This month’s lineup gives you a full day of ways to take part. You can start in the morning, stop by at lunch, come after work, or make an evening of it. No complicated plan required. Just bring your curiosity.

Start at the Summit Free Public Library

Begin your First Thursday with a visit to the Summit Free Public Library to see Zenia Olesnyckyj: Impressions of Alaska. This exhibition offers a chance to take in artwork inspired by the colors, landscapes, and atmosphere of Alaska. It is a beautiful way to start the day: quiet, reflective, and a reminder that art can take us somewhere else without requiring airport security.

Summit Free Public Library, 75 Maple Street, 9 AM to 9 PM

Stop by Kanibal + Co. for Watercolors by Chelsea Leifken

Next, head over to Kanibal + Co. for Chelsea Leifken: Devour What You Love, a collection of watercolors by the local artist. It is a great opportunity to see artwork in one of Summit’s favorite downtown shops, enjoy a little creative inspiration, and maybe discover something you did not know you needed until it was sitting there being charming.

Kanibal + Co., 27 Maple Street, 10 AM to 7 PM

Take a Midday Gardening Tour at the Art Center

At lunchtime, visit the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey for a Midday Gardening Tour with an Artist. Artist-in-residence Gabriella D’Italia will lead visitors through the Art Center’s green space, sharing local plants and gardening tips along the way. This is a lovely way to step outside, learn something new, and enjoy spring in Summit.

Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, 68 Elm Street, 12 to 2 PM

Try Free Dance Lessons at Fred Astaire Dance Studios

First Thursday is not only about looking at art. It is also about joining in. Fred Astaire Dance Studios offers free dance lessons, giving visitors a chance to move, learn a few steps, and have fun in a welcoming environment. Whether you already know your way around a dance floor or consider “swaying politely” your signature move, this is a low-pressure way to try something new.

Fred Astaire Dance Studios, 2 Kent Place Boulevard, 12 to 9 PM

Spend the Evening in the Galleries

Later in the day, return to the Visual Arts Center of New Jersey for An Evening in the Galleries. Visitors can explore the Art Center’s spring exhibitions, enjoy light refreshments, and connect with other art lovers. Featured exhibitions include In Conversation: Will Wilson in the Main Gallery, presented in partnership with Art Bridges; Present and Growing, featuring Gabriel Garcia Roman in the Mitzi and Warren Eisenberg Gallery; and With Passing Years, featuring Chrystofer Davis in the Marité and Joe Robinson Strolling Gallery I.

Visual Arts Center of New Jersey, 68 Elm Street, 5:30 to 7 PM

Choose Your Own Adventure!

The best part of Summit First Thursday is that it is not just one event. It is an invitation to experience Summit differently. You can visit an exhibition, meet an artist, take a walk, learn about plants, try a dance lesson, stop into a shop, grab a bite, and make a regular Thursday feel like a small local adventure.

Summit First Thursday is free, open to the public, and designed to celebrate the creative side of our town. On May 7, come out, bring a friend, and see what’s happening downtown.

For the full list of events, visit summit1stthurs.com.