The First Fridays art walk in downtown Phoenix started about 30 years ago as a way to highlight the local arts scene.
It’s become more like a massive street fair in recent years — one that organizers say is no longer tenable.
In a statement on Roosevelt Row CDC’s social media page, organizers of the monthly arts and culture event announced that in light of “unacceptable violent acts,” there will no longer be street closures or vendors allowed along Roosevelt for the “foreseeable future.”
It’s unclear what those acts were, but there are reports of fights and shootings.
Brick and mortar shops and galleries will remain open.
The organizers say the plan is to take the next few months to recalibrate and refocus the mission. The decision was made in collaboration with the neighborhood, other stakeholders and the city of Phoenix.
