Most everyone knows about First Friday events downtown, but less folks are familiar with the group that puts them on - Artlink. This group started small, and has done amazing things for the Arts community in Phoenix.
Though First Fridays have become absolutely huge now, and it hardly feels the same - I actually love hanging with the crowds once a year for Art Detour.
Once a year more galleries open, and lots of businesses will display art instead of just Friday night it's Friday, that Saturday and Sunday! I've brought new people with me every year and no one is ever disappointed. Some folks like to drive from one spot to the next and that definitely has it's advantages! It's also fun to take the shuttle around. You can have some fun conversations, find out the skinny on a particular gallery, or get hot spot info from the bus drivers. And while both First Friday and Art Link are definitely All-age events, there are generally several after parties for the over 21 crowd sponsored by individual locations.
Art link has some great volunteer opportunities too, and it can be a great way for someone new to town to get to know people while learning all about the downtown art scene.