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.
It’ll be chilly and possibly rainy on Friday, Jan. 2, but bring an umbrella and don’t let the weather keep you from enjoying everything going on downtown.
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 January?
Galleries and museums have plenty of work on display this month.
Alwun House: It’s the closing night of “Lighthouse,” an exhibition of luminous artwork by Tom Stephenson. Hours are 6 to 10 p.m.
Cahokia PHX: The Blank Canvas Social Club is free and open to the public. Each participant gets access to paint markets, paints, brushes, designated canvas space and an easel. The theme of the night is “Transformation.” Hours are 6 to 9 p.m.
eye lounge Collective at Modified Arts: The current exhibition is “now if you don’t sit down…” a solo show of works by Brianna Noble. Hours are 6 to 9 p.m.
Fifth Avenue Foundry: The relatively new Roosevelt Row artspace will show “BLOOM: The Art of Becoming,” a solo exhibition by MJ Okawa that features luminous silk paintings informed by nature. Hours are 6:30 to 9 p.m.
First Studio Gallery: The “Small Works Show” is currently on display at the gallery, bringing together works by dozens of local artists that are available for purchase. Hours are 5 to 9 p.m.
Five15 Arts @ Chartreuse: This First Friday, Five15 Arts will debut “Resolutions” featuring new abstract paintings by Daniel Prendergast. 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. “Gods & Monsters” features the work of local artists that explores the mythic, divine and monstrous. “Purple,” a group show of violet-colored works, is also on display.
Heard Museum: This First Friday, Chezale Rodriguez (Taino) and Wade Antonio Colwell (Rarámuri) will present “Facing the Sun Together,” an interactive offering for guests of all ages and abilities to move, connect and express their creativity, at 5 p.m. At 7 p.m., visitors can participate in a community sunflower-themed art experience facilitated by storytelling visual artist Tiesha Harrison. The museum is also free and open to the public from 4 to 8 p.m.
Herberger Theater Center: Herberger will welcome 2026 with Neon New Year, a vibrant, retro-inspired celebration featuring neon decor and the biggest hits from the 1980s. Guests will enjoy an energetic, colorful atmosphere reminiscent of classic ’80s dance parties. 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.
Phoenix Art Museum: The museum will be open and offer free admission from 5 to 8 p.m.
