This Friday, April 4th, is First Friday in Downtown Bend and the Old Mill District: when the art galleries stay open late, from 5 to 9pm, offering receptions, special exhibits, and in some cases, music and refreshments (wine!).

But wait! There’s more!

This Friday is also the Spring Art Hop—think of it as an amped-up First Friday, where a bunch of downtown stores (not just galleries) are participating and displaying art. Check out the PDF brochure from the Downtowners Association to see a list of all the participants.

Other things going on that night, coinciding with First Friday/Art Hop:

• Bistro Corlise will be hosting another Open House during Art Hop:
  916 NW Wall St.
  Friday, April 4, 5-7pm
  Complimentary wine and hors d’oevres.
  Dinner reservations available after 7pm.
  For reservations and info, visit www.BistroCorlise.com or call 385-6979.
• Thump Coffee will be open late, featuring music and wine:
  "For Art Hop on Friday, April 4 Thump Coffee will stay open until 9:00 pm, pouring complimentary wine and showcasing the [solo acoustical] guitar talents of Thump barista James Simmons. Though Simmons took up the instrument himself only a decade ago while in his 20s, music runs deep in his blood. His father Larry played for the Grand Ole Opry and toured with top country musicians, and grandfather Buddy, uncle Don and cousin Dean are all professional musicians."
• The Des Chutes Historical Museum will feature "a unique look at Bend’s changes through paintings created by local artist Judy Hoiness." They will also be serving food and a chance to buy one of 12 signed prints by Western artist James Bama.

Plus lots more going on. Don’t miss it!