the first time i came to this event when i moved out here, it was crazy! i was so enamored with the lack of scottsdale types, i considered moving downtown. then the event kind of changed and i didn't go back for years. \nmy things are different. with food truck courts, local handicraft courts, and more venues than ever being opened, along with a strong security presence (which i appreciate), first friday is darn cool again! soap boxers, drum kit circles, and throngs of people enjoying downtown phoenix, it's a pleasure to visit again. \nthis is the first time we took the light rail down and that helped with the parking situation. normally we head down there kind of early, like 5 or 6pm to get a good parking space. there is so much to see and do and people watch. things started winding down around 10pm, but a few places remain open late into the night. \n\na great free entertainment activity for everyone!