Say Gudday Phoenix

First Friday is a free event done on the first Friday of every month. It is considered an open studio tour. That means you will have multiple art galleries and independent artists out and about show casing their work. The nice part is there is no tour guide. You get to decide where you want to go and who you decide to mingle with. All ages are welcome, although I don't really recommend bringing little kids since you are in downtown Phoenix and not all the galleries open right at six. Some don't get going until about 7 or later, that's when the event is getting into full swing. IF your kids are anything like mine, they are going to be getting tired quickly. Of course you can always bring the kids on Saturday, more about that further down the page. First Friday does not just involve art, and art galleries. You will see businesses, restaurants, and people just walking around promoting their cause, or petition. That is what makes it so great, 14,000-20,000 people come down every month to enjoy the fun festival atmosphere that Artlink has helped to inspire.

Who puts on First Friday?
First Friday is organized by a non-profit organization called Artlink. They brought First Friday to the valley in 1994, and it quickly became the largest monthly art walk in the United States.

What time does First Friday start, and how long does it last?
First Friday official time is 6-10pm, but really gets going between 7-8pm.

Where can I park?
There are several areas to park, but one of the nicest things that has happened is there are shuttles that run from the Phoenix Art Museum to the event, and also the light rail. While you park at the museum or close to it, you can get shuttle and map information there. They have everything mapped out for you to enjoy your night without wandering around aimlessly.

How much does all this cost?
First Friday is free, however you may decide to spend some money along the way. You have food stops, cafes, all kind of merchandise you can pick up, and of course ART! If you enjoy art, support our local artists out there. They work very hard to create something they are passionate about. Throughout the night, you don't have to spend any money if you don't want to, but remember supporting any local economy helps everyone here, and helps to keep things going on for a long time to come. If you can't afford to do that, pack some food and come out and enjoy things anyway.

What's this Saturday aspect of First Friday?
Every Saturday immediately following the First Friday, some of the vendors remain to let people experience First Friday during the day. From 1-5 pm you can bring the kids, not worry about the dark, or massive crowds. More than 40 of the venues will be open for you to enjoy!

My personal recommendations for First Friday.
Not having an exact plan is sometimes the best way to go thru something like this. Enjoy whatever you come across, encourage our artists, and if you come across something you don't enjoy, just keep on walking until you do. Most people cannot get through the entire place in one night, so keep in mind what you saw and take a different route next month. This is a great way to meet people from the Phoenix community and an overall fun experience if you've never done it.

The Heard Museum is all about American Indian arts and cultures. It was founded in 1929 by pioneer Phoenix settlers Dwight B. and Maie Bartlett Heard. They focused on teaching anyone who came about the life, heritage, and arts of the American Indians, mainly focusing on tribes of the Southwest. The museum has grown leaps and bounds since then to become known internationally for quality in ancient Indian artifacts, it's extensive knowledge in the Indian culture, and their festivals. They have combined two locations for one amazing experience. The Heard museum uses artifacts they have found, ones that have been donated, and ones on loan to open the eyes of people to the true meaning behind certain things. Working with local tribes and communities to understand fully the meaning and symbolism behind these amazing artifacts and stories. They use interactive workshops to let people try different aspects of the culture. These activities include weaving with beads on a loom, creating wearable art, to even forming their own butterflies, Apache burden baskets, and more. They have an extensive video library to learn more in-depth about specific art forms and cultures. On top off all the fascinating art, they also put on events and festivals that bring in more than 40,000 visitors.

Where is the Heard Museum?
Main Location:
2301 N. Central Avenue
Phoenix, Arizona 85004
On Central Avenue, four blocks north of McDowell Road

Pricing is as follows:
Adults - $15
Seniors 65+ - $13.50
Students with ID - $7.50
Children 6-12 - $7.50
Children under 6 - Free

Hours of Operation:
9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday,
11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday

North Scottsdale Location:
The Summit at Scottsdale
32633 N. Scottsdale Road
Scottsdale, AZ 85262

Pricing is as follows:
Adults - $5
Seniors 65+ - $4
Children 6-12 - $2
Students with ID - $2
Children under 6 - Free

Hours of Operation:
Monday-Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Sunday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.