Jennifer Goldberg
Audio By Carbonatix
The monthly First Friday artwalk in downtown Phoenix is one of the city’s most popular activities.
The event shuts down part of Roosevelt Street and draws thousands of people looking to shop, eat and drink, see art and people-watch.
In addition to the largest gathering in Roosevelt Row, several galleries on Grand Avenue also participate in First Friday, as do several of the museums and attractions in the area, such as Phoenix Art Museum.
Phoenix galleries, museums and cultural spaces have an excellent lineup of programming planned in February.
And don’t forget the curfew that went into effect in April: Kids 15 and under can’t stay past 10 p.m. without a parent, guardian or adult; unaccompanied teens who are 16 and 17 years old will be able to attend First Friday until midnight.
What is First Friday in Phoenix?
First Friday is a monthly event in downtown Phoenix. Though it was originally heavily focused on the art galleries in the area, it has evolved into a street party that includes vendors, music, food trucks and more.
What time does First Friday start in Phoenix?
Most galleries open at 6 p.m. and are open until 9 or 10. On Roosevelt Row, the street fair begins before 6 p.m.
Where is First Friday in Phoenix?
First Friday activity is primarily located in two areas: Roosevelt Row and Grand Avenue. While Roosevelt Row technically runs from 16th St. to Seventh Ave., the bulk of First Friday activity is located from Central Avenue to Seventh St. Part of Roosevelt Row and the surrounding area are closed to car traffic on First Friday to allow for vendors, food trucks and foot traffic. On Grand Avenue, First Friday activities can be found between Seventh and 15th avenues.
What can I do for free on First Friday?
The art galleries are always free to visit. Children’s Museum of Phoenix, Heard Museum and Phoenix Art Museum are free on most First Fridays. The Japanese Friendship Garden is sometimes open and free on First Fridays; check its Instagram for information.
Where to park for First Friday in Phoenix
There’s lots of parking near Roosevelt Row, but it fills up quickly. There is a mix of metered parking, free street parking and paid parking lots on the side streets near RoRo.
What about the light rail?
Valley Metro Rail is a good option for First Friday. The Central Avenue/Roosevelt Street station will drop you right in the middle of the action. Cost is $4 for an all-day pass.
Benjamin Leatherman
What can I do during First Friday in February?
Galleries and museums have plenty of work on display this month.
Alwun House: This month, First Friday With a Kink returns to Alwun House. The adult pop-up market includes vendors selling things such as erotic art and BDSM toys, plus demonstrations, DJs, community booths, food and drink for purchase and more. The event is for people ages 21 and up. Hours are 6 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $7 plus fees.
Arizona Center: The monthly family-friendly First Friday event at Arizona Center includes a night market, art walk with live painters, petting zoo and other kids’ activities, community mural, food and music. Hours are 6 to 10 p.m.
Arizona Latino Arts & Cultural Center: The center will show the work of Chicano artist José Andrés Girón from 6 to 9 p.m.
Children’s Museum of Phoenix: The museum will offer free admission from 5 to 9 p.m.
eye lounge Collective at Modified Arts: The current exhibition is “Invasive Species,” works by KJ Herb and Emma Florance that are a joint exploration of the uneasy feeling we get in the pit of our stomachs when we’re being watched. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m.
First Studio Gallery: Attend the opening of “A Show of Peace,” a partnership between Arizona Art Alliance and First Studio Gallery featuring artwork that explores inner peace, harmony and the positive changes artists wish to see in the world. Hours are 5 to 9 p.m.
Five15 Arts @ Chartreuse: This First Friday, Five15 Arts will debut “In Bits & Pieces,” works by Marlys Kubicek that contemplate time’s passing and new works made from unusual materials found in her art studio. Don’t forget to pop over to the other side of the space for a free DIY letterpress print courtesy of Hazel & Violet. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m.
FOUND:RE Contemporary: The gallery spaces inside the Phoenix hotel are currently hosting two shows. “Where the Wild Things Stay” comprises animal-themed works by local artists; and “ROYGBIV,” a group show of rainbow-colored art.
Hawk Salvage: The scene at the Grand Avenue shop will include art by Michael Padilla, music by a DJ and food from Viola’s Kitchen. The fun starts at 6 p.m.
Heard Museum: This First Friday at the Heard, celebrate the opening of “Blue Bird,” an exhibition exploring how the iconic brand (well known for its use in frybread and tortillas) has become a symbol woven into Native popular culture. The museum is free and open to the public from 4 to 8 p.m.
Herberger Theater Center: Herberger’s First Friday Live event in February is “A Night in Japan.” Celebrate the history and artistry of Japanese culture with a night of tradition and modern fusion. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m.
Japanese Friendship Garden: The garden offers free admission on First Fridays when there’s not a special event happening. This month, First Friday hours are 5 to 7:30 p.m.
La Melgosa Building: The Grand Avenue spot will show the “Small Batch” group show and a studio sale offering paintings, photography, prints, jewelry, vintage clothes and more.
Phoenix Art Museum: Celebrate Black History Month with an evening of storytelling, poetry and creative connection. The museum will be open and offer free admission from 5 to 8 p.m.
Roosevelt ArtWorks: The studio near Grand Avenue will host a live painting event crafting messages of community, equality and hope. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m.
The Styles Shop: Head to Grand Avenue for “Futuristic Females.” The event includes live mural painting, face-painting, flash tattoos, workshops and more. Hours are 5 to 9 p.m.
Third Rail PHX: The “Howlers” show includes more than 60 works painted by local artists on heart-shaped panels. There will also be music by a DJ, vendors and food for purchase. Hours are 6 to 10 p.m.
