Press Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 25, 2025

First Fridays Returns August 1 with Stolp Island Block Party

Downtown Aurora’s biggest summer street fest brings family fun to Stolp Avenue

AURORA, IL — Mark your calendars! On Friday August 1 downtown Aurora is throwing the ultimate summer bash: the Stolp Island Block Party, the highlight of Aurora’s first Fridays presented by the Aurora Alliance.

Situated on the lively Stolp Avenue, nestled between Galena and Downer, this Block Party promises to be a feast for the senses. With more than 30 downtown businesses participating in this month’s First Friday, there’s sure to be fun for everyone.

Highlights Include:

• Live Entertainment:
  • Saint Astro (live band)
  • If These Walls Could Talk Artist Showcase, with local artists creating their work live!!
  • Magician (Aiden Gross)
  • Boonz Balloons
  • Face painting
  • Craft station for kids
• Street Food & Local Flavor:
  • Nick’s Pizza Truck (wood-fired pizzas)
  • Grumpy Gaucho (Argentinian empanadas)
  • My Funnel Truck & Lemonade
  • Tavern on Broadway (shaved ice, beer, & wine)
  • Altiro Latin Fusion (tacos & margaritas)
  • Craft Urban (burgers & beers)
  • Charlie’s Creamery (ice cream)
  • Pineapple Ladies (slushies & mocktails)
• Vendors & Community Partners
  • Hair accessories from Do or Dye Designs
  • Teen Art Market with Yellow Bird Books
  •  Face glitter with Whitney’s Love Nail & Beauty Bar
  • T-shirt tie-dying and selfie station with Rebuilding Together Aurora
  • Pop-ups by Paramount School of the Arts, the Aurora Regional Fire Museum, The Nolan Gallery, & more!

But don’t forget August 1st isn’t just the Block Party…. Make sure to visit the fantastic businesses on the First Friday map for more fun!

Event Details
Location: Stolp Avenue between Galena Blvd. and Downer Pl.
Time: 5:00–9:00 p.m.

The Stolp Island Block Party is free and open to all ages. Attendees are encouraged to explore nearby galleries, boutiques, and cafes, many of which will stay open late as part of the First Fridays celebration.

About the Aurora Regional Economic Alliance
The Aurora Regional Economic Alliance (Alliance) is an Economic Development and Chamber of Commerce corporation charged with fostering equitable and sustainable economic growth. By joining forces through the Alliance, the region presents a unified front in support of existing businesses, amplifies the voices of women- and minority-owned entrepreneurs, and attracts investment. The Alliance complements Aurora’s development initiatives by marketing the city’s competitive advantages and supporting inclusive economic expansion.