If you find yourself in downtown Phoenix and it happens to be the first Friday of the month, prepare for an artful immersion like no other. As described in Phoenix New Times, First Friday is not just an art walk, it's a street party that completely overtakes parts of Roosevelt Street, with throngs of people eager to take in the creative atmosphere, the live music, and the scrumptious offerings from food trucks.
The event, which originally centered around the galleries, has grown into a sizable bash that extends along Roosevelt Row and over to Grand Avenue, where you're just as likely to find an indie band playing on a street corner as you are a high-quality piece of art. And as AZ Central points out, this monthly shindig is not just popular among art aficionados, it's a go-to event for anyone looking to enjoy Phoenix's lively night scene.
Don't worry about cost of admission; plenty of the activities are free. The art galleries don't charge an entry fee, and destinations like the Heard Museum welcome visitors at no cost during the event. Performance spaces spill out onto the streets, and the art itself ranges from photographic works by famed Arizona Diamondback Randy Johnson, to social-commentary exhibits like "Nosotras las Mujeres — We the Women," which explores women's resilience and roots.
First Friday kicks off around 6 p.m., but if you're planning to visit the Heard Museum specifically, take note that they begin their festivities an hour earlier at 5 p.m. The Phoenix Art Museum, has shifted its free admission night to a quarterly event, so make sure to check their schedule if you're hoping to save a few bucks. Those looking for a more serene experience might luck out with free admission to the Japanese Friendship Garden, just be sure to check their Instagram for the details.
