First Thursdays on Karangahape Road

Overview

Karangahape Road's streetwide celebration of local music acts, markets, art exhibitions and some damn good happy hour specials is making its much-hyped return this month.

First Thursdays occurs (as the name suggests) on the first Thursday of every month, and sees popup music stages and markets take over one of the city's most famous stretches of road for one night only. This month's iteration is taking place on Thursday, November 3 from 4.30pm to 9pm.

To catch some local music acts, make your way down to the corner of Pitt Street and Karangahape Road, where the Pocket Park stage is set to have a slew of local acts and DJs, including DJ Jay FM (4.30pm), Miakie (6pm) Shoeless Band (7pm) and Saint Mercury (7.45pm).

If you're in the mood to browse some local homewares, fashion, jewellery and gifts, there will be markets aplenty. The famous Karangahape night market will be running in its usual spot near the Pocket Park Stage from 5pm-9pm, with over 35 stalls including some delicious treats. Then head to the St Kevin's Arcade Market from 6.30-10pm — live DJs will be on the decks while you browse the goods on offer, with late-night shopping on throughout the arcade.

Plus, Crushes boutique is holding a Deadstock Denim Party — they've got pairs on pairs of jeans to choose from along, with Jess from Reperation Studio on hand to get your measurements and perfectly tailor or hem your jeans to size. Dream scenario.

If you're keen for a few giggles, head to Muck Around Comedy hosted by Tim Batt at Whammy, and don't miss the celebration of Henrietta Harris' new exhibition 'Henrietta Harris, An Inquiry' at the Melanie Roger Gallery.

If you're in the mood for a bevvy and a boogie, several bars down the famous road will have their usual celebratory happy hour deals and cocktail specials running all night, including $2 wings at Lowbrow and drink specials at Coco's, Cotto, Bar Magda and Sly.

Grab some friends, start the eve with a cocktail and make your way down the newly $30 million revamped road this Thursday.

Top image: France Hémon @doux.voyage.visual