First Firday Merchant resources

What is the Creative Economy Collaboration? 

The Creative Economy Collaboration is a community support program focused on Orleans Small Businesses participating in First Fridays. The mini-grants are an opportunity for Small Businesses to receive up to $300 for offsetting the cost of hiring musicians, artists, and other special performers for First Friday evenings. Examples of qualifying performances include musicians, live-painting, dance, and other forms of performance art.  

Eligibility:

• Any small business in Orleans participating in First Friday and hiring an artist for the event. Pilot Program is limited to June & July First Fridays.
• Partnering Requirements: Recipient will include the Orleans Cultural District in all advertising and social media posts as a partner. @orleans_cultural_district_

Administrative Requirements:  

• Complete the attached short application and submit to Jamie Demetri, Town of Orleans staff liaison to the Orleans Cultural District, by May 11th, 2026. 
  • Jamie Demetri: jdemetri@orleansma.gov

Grant Awards:

• Recipients will submit paid invoice for hired artist/performer and will be reimbursed directly by OCDC after the event has completed. 

Timeline:

• Request for Applications: April 1, 2026
• Applications Due: May 11th, 2026
• Notification of Awards: May 27th, 2026

If you’re planning to serve alcohol or offer food during First Fridays, you’ll need to apply for the appropriate permits through the Town of Orleans. We’ve gathered the key information and forms here to make it easy.

Businesses serving alcohol must complete the Town’s One Day Liquor License application and addendum.

Important Details:

• Deadline to apply for the full First Fridays season and to save on the filing fee: May 1, 2026
• License Cost: $50 per event date (Filing fee will be waived by the Town)
• A Certificate of Liability Insurance (COI) naming the Town of Orleans is required
• All alcohol must be purchased through approved ABCC sources
• ID checks are required at every event
• Once day liquor license application
• Download the license checklist below

If you miss the May 1 deadline, you can still apply for individual dates—applications must be submitted at least one month prior to the First Friday you plan to use your license for. Business will be responsible for the license Fee and the filing fee. 

If you’re offering simple food items (like snacks or light bites), you may qualify for a Limited Temporary Food Permit for First Fridays.

Limited Permit ($20) covers:

• Charcuterie (cheese & crackers)
• Pre-packaged snacks (chips, popcorn)
• Baked goods (cookies, brownies)
• Dips, jams, fruit or vegetable platters
• Pre-packaged drinks 

If you plan to serve anything beyond these items, you’ll need to apply for a Standard Temporary Food Permit ($75).

Applications are submitted through the Town of Orleans Health Department online permitting system (download info and form link below).