The Prime Pimpin Book Version:

I have lived in Phoenix for 8 years now, and I am sad to say that last night was my first experience with First Friday. For those unfamiliar, first Friday is an event that is organized by a nonprofit organization named Artlink and takes place the first Friday of every month in Phoenix, AZ. Their goal is to bring "...together artists, the public, and businesses for a greater understanding, appreciation, and promotion of the arts and the development of a strong and vital downtown Phoenix arts community."

Growing from only 13 spaces in 1998, there are now over 100 participants spanning from Indian School Road to Buchanan Street and from 12th Street to 17th Avenue - if you don't know Phoenix and don't feel like looking it up - that is A LOT of real estate.

The really awesome part is that the experience is so much more than art. There were all kinds of bands playing from fiddlers, to rock, to hip hop. There were free style rap battles right next to a bunch of skaters, and lots of vendors set up selling their swag. Since art is always more compelling after a few drinks there are plenty of bars scattered about. Although a free tip from me to you is to ask for a price before ordering or you might get stuck with an $11 Jack and Coke. I think I saw some house parties (although I am bummed I wasn't invited to any). And like clockwork, just like any other free gathering of people, there are the religious folks trying to help save your soul.

Prime Pimpin was so impressed, we are considering becoming a vendor there.

The Cliffs Notes version:

If you have never been to First Friday in Phoenix, it's pretty rad. Prime Pimpin might be there next month, so be cool, check it out, and stop in to say hi.