The culture that lives within the city of Phoenix is unlike any other, and it’s no wonder why it’s become the fifth most populated city in the United States with the recent increase in the Phoenix housing market bringing an influx of transplants into town. One of the best ways to learn about the culture of the Phoenix community is through none other than the arts. First Fridays Art Walk hosted by Artlink Phoenix is coming back again on August 6, 2021.
Artlink is a 33-year-old nonprofit organization that was created by local Arizona artists to benefit the arts community within Phoenix through various events hosted throughout the year. When the COVID-19 global pandemic hit, the organization had to abide by the rules and regulations to keep their artists and community safe by shutting down their monthly art walks. While their community took a hit, it didn’t stop them from finding ways to work with their stakeholders to ensure a proper comeback the following year.
On the first Friday of every month, Artlink hosts one of the nation’s largest self-guided art walks for the community to tour. Several shuttles are provided for access to over 70 galleries and venues that cover a range of art from music, painting, sculptures, fashion, and more. But not only that, several vendors provide excellent local food and beverages to enjoy while you explore the different exhibits.
According to the Visit Phoenix official website, the nonprofit organization has still not technically restarted its monthly art walks due to the pandemic. However, there are ample amounts of art events that take place throughout the downtown Phoenix area to continue the First Friday tradition.
Events During First Fridays
The Phoenix Art Museum will be open on First Friday from 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm, and entry is based on voluntary donations.
Local letterpress company Hazel & Violet on Grand Avenue will be printing free posters to give their visitors a hands-on experience at their shop.
The Heard Museum will be providing free general admission to their museum. You can stop by The Café and Cantina for food, drinks, snacks, and a cash bar is available for the adults to enjoy as well.
Throughout the Valley, you’ll hear music coming from every street corner with a dozen different locations to check out live entertainment specifically for First Fridays. From jazz music at The Nash to reggae music at The Van Buren, there is a little something around the city for everyone.
You certainly won’t want to miss Roosevelt Row in downtown Phoenix between 7th Avenue and 16th Street, where the main events will take place. Bars, restaurants, boutiques, and dozens of local artists alike will be participating each month in the festivities for locals and visitors to the area.
What The Locals Are Saying About First Fridays in Phoenix
Local Arizona real estate agents of The Kay-Grant Group raved about their experience with First Fridays. “Not only is it a great place for locals,” the realtors said, “your friends and family from out of town will love First Fridays too. Everyone around downtown Phoenix is more energized during this monthly festival, which makes even your usual weekend an even better experience.”
Masks are still required for those who are not fully vaccinated. Make sure to check the website of the establishments and venues you wish you to visit on your First Friday experience for their official guidelines, as they may vary.
The next First Friday Art Walk will take place throughout the general Phoenix area on August 6, 2021, starting at 6:00 pm and going until 10:00 pm. While the event is dispersed primarily throughout the downtown area, you can find a map with more specifics on various exhibits, boutiques, and markets along with trolly information on Artlink’s website.
