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Las Vegas officials weigh new security measures before First Friday returns
Mayor Shelley Berkley says the pause in the Arts District’s First Friday festival followed an Oct. 2 shooting that killed a 15-year-old. The city, Metro Police and festival organizers are reviewing safety plans, with a possible return in December or January.
LAS VEGAS — The monthly First Friday festival in downtown Las Vegas will remain on hold while city officials, Metro Police and the First Friday Foundation review security and event operations after a shooting in the Arts District killed a 15-year-old on Oct. 2.
Mayor Shelley Berkley called the pause a “very wise” response to the violence, which followed an altercation. She said the three partners are working to prevent a similar incident and that officials will reopen the festival only when they are confident they can keep attendees safe.
The review has not yet produced specific changes. Berkley said a return could come as soon as December, though January 2027 is also possible.
First Friday draws visitors to the Arts District’s galleries, restaurants and bars. Berkley said the event was intended as a place for people to gather and support local businesses, not for gang activity or disorder. She said she has also spoken with Arts District business owners about the pause’s effects and potential security measures.
The suspension leaves organizers and officials balancing the festival’s role in the neighborhood’s cultural and business life with the need to address safety concerns before crowds return.