There’s something extra special about Dover on the first Friday of the month - the lights are glowing, shops are bustling, and neighbors are out enjoying the simple joy of shopping and dining local. First Fridays, also known as Shop Local Late, invites you to explore downtown from 5–8 PM, when our local businesses stay open a little later to welcome you in.

Whether you’re meeting friends for dinner, browsing for gifts, or simply soaking up the community atmosphere, First Fridays are all about slowing down and enjoying what makes Dover so unique - its small businesses, creative energy, and hometown pride.

Where to Shop

Start your evening at Potter’s Green & Gift on 4th Street, then follow the Shop Small Retail Map to discover participating retailers, each offering something special and distinct.

Downtown Retail Stops:

• Potter’s Green & Gift – 10 4th St. Suite 102

• Ross Furniture & Mattress – 38 Third St.

• SEH Studios Art Gallery – 456 Central Ave.

• My Country Story – 447 Central Ave.

• Hip Finds Company + Eight Legged Octopus – 394 Central Ave.

• Lickee’s and Chewy’s Candies & Creamery – 53 Washington St. Suite 100

• Auspicious Brew – 1 Washington St. Suite 1103

• Kilmaincrystals – 1 Washington St. Suite 2144

• Birch Theory – 93 Washington St.

• Hello Again – 270 Central Ave.

• Fire on the Mountain – 264 Central Ave.

• Aplomb Gallery & Art Café – 262 Central Ave.

Bonus tip - Don’t miss Aplomb Gallery’s “Friday Night Out” — a fun, creative experience where guests are encouraged to draw each other. Bring a date or get matched with someone new!

Eat Local: Restaurant Specials

Dover’s restaurant scene joins in the fun with exclusive First Friday specials - perfect for a night out or a quick stop between shops.

Participating Restaurants & Specials

• Chapel + Main – 83 Main St.

  • Happy Hour 8–10 PM: $5 beers, $7 select cocktails

• Cinco’s Cantina – 446 Central Ave.

  • First Friday Fajitas: $5 off all fajitas when you mention “First Friday” (all day!)

• The Brick – 2 Orchard St.

  • 10% off all food with map presented

• HiFi Burritos – 11A Main St.

  • All-day happy hour, discounted beers, and margaritas

• Stalk – 286 Central Ave.

  • Happy Hour 4–6 PM: 15% off all appetizers + salads, discounted cocktails, wine, and draft beer

• Auspicious Brew – 1 Washington St. Suite 1103

  • 10% off all in-house drinks during Happy Hour

Why Shop Local Late

Shopping small keeps Dover’s heart beating strong. Every purchase supports local families, creative entrepreneurs, and small business owners who make our downtown vibrant. It’s not just about finding a great gift — it’s about investing in our community, one visit at a time.

Unlike big box stores, our local shops offer handpicked treasures, artisan goods, and personal touches that make every find unique. First Fridays are your chance to discover them - with good company, good food, and good vibes all around.

So grab your coat, invite a friend, and join us downtown.

Shop Small. Eat Local. Love Dover.

🕔 First Fridays | 5–8 PM | Downtown Dover, NH

📅 Upcoming Dates: Nov 7th & Dec 5th