Third Thursday
On the third Thursday of each month from May through September, downtown comes alive with art, music, performance, and community. Third Thursday fills the downtown sidewalks and public spaces.
2026 Third Thursday Dates
- May 21st
- June 18th
- July 16th
- August 20th
- September 17th
All events are 5–8pm, outdoors in Downtown Manhattan. Each date brings its own unique lineup, so come to as many as you can!
More information to come about individual additions to each Third Thursday event.
Third Thursdays are a series of art-focused events showcasing a wide range of visual and performing arts: painting, sculpture, photography, live music, theater, dance, spoken word, and more. The goal is to highlight the incredible range of artists and performers who make our Downtown neighborhood one of a kind.
Volunteer
We can always use help bringing the street to life! Volunteer in the neighborhood by filling out our Volunteer Form here.
Artist, Performer, or Demonstrator
Apply to exhibit your artwork, perform music, share an artistic activity, or demonstrate your craft with the community. Participation is free — a $25 fee per event (or $115 for the full season) applies only if you’ll be selling your work.
Artist Guidelines
Who can participate:
- Open to artists 18 and up (those under 18 are welcome with parental supervision)
- Visual art in all mediums: painting, drawing, photography, sculpture, mixed media, and performance arts including theater, dance, spoken word, and more
- Pottery, woodworking, jewelry, fiber arts, and other hand-created works are welcome when they demonstrate originality, artistic intent, and expression beyond function
- All work must be original and one-of-a-kind. No mass-produced, commercialized, or duplicated items.
Visual Arts: Work should highlight creativity, expression, and originality. Functional crafts, mass-produced items, or works made from kits or patterns are not eligible.
Demonstrators: Third Thursday also welcomes demonstrators, artists who bring their craft to life for the community in real time. Potters, woodworkers, fiber artists, jewelers, glass artists, and others are welcome to show their process, share their skills, and connect with visitors. Demonstrators may sell original, handmade work. Participation is reviewed by the committee to ensure a good balance of art exhibitions and interactive demonstrations.
How to apply: Submit your interest with the Third Thursday Interest Form below. Applications are reviewed by our committee for quality and fit. Space is limited, and selections are made based on originality and alignment with the event. You will receive further directions to complete registration for your desired events.
Participation details:
- Artists provide their own display materials (tables, easels, etc.)
- All participants must be present for the full event, 5–8pm
- All displayed or sold items must be appropriate for a broad public audience; political, controversial, offensive, or vulgar content is not permitted
- Live demonstrations are genuinely encouraged!
Sales & promotion:
- Artists may sell directly during the event
- Personal promotion via social media, email, etc. is encouraged
- If you sell your artwork or wares, a $25 fee per event applies to reserve a spot, or $115 for the full season
Questions? Reach out at [email protected].
