The Beginning of a New Tradition!
Experience Art, Music, and Community in the Heart of Surprise
Join us for First Friday Surprise, a vibrant monthly gathering that brings together local artists, makers, musicians, food vendors, and neighbors. Celebrate creativity, connection, and community spirit in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Next First Friday Surprise
March 6
Come out, explore, and enjoy an evening with your neighbors.
First Fridays
First Friday of the Month,
starting in October
Marley Park Plaza
In front of Spencer’s Place
on Reems & Waddell
Fun begins at 6pm
Family friendly, free to attend
Our Vision
First Friday Surprise is more than an event, it’s a celebration of local creativity. Our mission is to provide a platform for artists and makers while creating a welcoming space for families and neighbors to gather.
Each month, we partner with a local nonprofit, highlighting their mission and giving back through awareness and fundraising.
Our Community Makes It Possible
First Friday Surprise is powered by local artists, businesses, organizations, and individuals who believe in bringing our community together through art, music, and connection. We’re grateful for their support in helping us build a lasting tradition in Surprise.
Interested in becoming part of the First Friday Surprise community? Whether through sponsorship or collaboration, your support helps keep this event thriving.
The Experience
Art
Discover original works from local artists and makers, each bringing their unique creativity to Surprise.
Music
Enjoy the sounds that set the perfect soundtrack for a night of community and connection.
Culinary
Savor flavors from local food trucks and culinary creators, offering bites to please every taste.
Event Details
Quick Facts
- When: Events take place on the first Friday of the month
- Time: 6pm – 9pm
- Location: Marley Park Plaza on Reems Rd & Waddell Rd, in front of Spencer’s Place
- Cost: Free to attend
- Parking: Free
- What to expect: Art vendors, music, food trucks & more
Attendee Tips
- Bring a reusalbe bag for purchases
- Come hungry, support local food vendors
- Be kind to artists and their displays
“As a business owner in this community, I’ve seen firsthand the impact that happens when people come together. At Spencer’s Place, I get to express my creativity through coffee and the baristas on my team. With First Friday, I want to create those same opportunities for other creatives to share their passions. My hope is that it becomes a platform for artists of every medium to make an impact.”
Karin York
Co-Producer of First Friday Surprise and Owner of Spencer’s Place
“As an artist, I believe creativity plays a vital role in our lives, with the power to spark joy, curiosity, and connection. I saw an opportunity to bring that experience closer to home by creating a space for artists to showcase their work while building something meaningful for our community. First Friday Surprise is about uplifting artists, celebrating creativity, and strengthening community ties right here in Surprise.”
Heath McCarter
Co-Producer of First Friday Surprise and Owner of WMAC Design
Our goal is to make this a signature event that residents look forward to and that draws in neighbors from across the West Valley.
Upcoming Events
2026
Free to attend
Marley Park Plaza – in front of Spencer’s Place
Performing Live
Kenyon France
Kenyon is a singer-songwriter from Surprise, AZ who has been creating music for several years. He began playing in the 8th grade and draws inspiration from his life experiences, using music as a therapeutic and creative outlet. His original songs are rooted in honesty and hope, with the goal of encouraging others through their own journeys.
Formerly the lead singer of the band Very Cherry, Kenyon has performed at venues across the Valley, honing his stage presence and musical style. Grateful for his God-given talent and his love for Jesus, he is now focused on his solo work, with multiple recorded songs and music videos available. Kenyon will be performing a duo set for the community event, and his music can be found on all major streaming platforms.
Free to attend
Marley Park Plaza – in front of Spencer’s Place
Performing Live
The Steady Kind
The Steady Kind is a Phoenix-based singer-songwriter duo made up of Rhonda Jo Hitchcock-Mast and Shawn Royer, bringing nearly two decades of experience to stages both small and large. Their original music blends Pop, Country, Rock, Bluegrass, and Americana, pairing Rhonda Jo’s powerful, story-driven vocals with Shawn’s dynamic guitar work. Since 2015, they’ve focused heavily on songwriting and frequently collaborate with local songwriter Randy Brown, with hopes of having their songs recorded by other artists or featured in film and television.
At the core of their live shows is a love of storytelling and connection. The Steady Kind is known for sharing the stories behind their songs and feeding off the energy of the crowd. Recently, they’ve expanded their live sound with Freddy G on cajón, adding depth and rhythm for a fuller performance experience.
Free to attend
Marley Park Plaza – in front of Spencer’s Place
Performing Live
Abby Walker
Abby Walker is an acoustic pop songwriter and performer known for heartfelt storytelling and engaging live performances. Her solo music has taken her to festivals, hotels, art galleries, and intimate venues across the U.S., as well as audiences in Mexico and Jamaica.
She gained wider attention after placing third in Alice Cooper’s Proof Is in the Pudding competition with her playful original song “Arizona Christmas.” Since then, Abby has continued to grow her sound and audience, performing both solo and with full band arrangements.
Her latest release, “Lucy,” resonated with listeners nationwide and led to the recording of her upcoming debut EP. Abby’s music blends warmth, honesty, and melody, creating moments that feel personal, memorable, and perfectly suited for a night of live local music.
Vendors & Artists
What our Vendors are saying…
The event was organized very well, the organizers were very friendly and helpful.
This first event has set a very good path ahead for the first fridays of coming months. The visitors to the event, were very discerning and very arts conscious. Response to my type of artwork was surely very good. A big thank you to the event visitors for the great response.
Looking forward to seeing many new visitors.”
Showcase Your Work
We’re looking for artists, makers, and creatives who want to share their passion with the community. Whether you create fine art, handmade crafts, or original designs, First Friday Surprise is your opportunity to connect with new audiences.
Vendor Guidelines
- Original art & handmade items only
- No mass-produced or manufactured goods
- Booth spaces are limited — apply today!
What You Get
- A booth space in a high‑visibility community event
- Promotion in our event marketing where possible
- A supportive, family‑friendly crowd
Sponsor Opportunities
Support the Arts,
Reach the Community
Sponsoring First Friday Surprise connects your brand with families and neighbors across the West Valley. You’ll support local artists, amplify a monthly nonprofit, and gain visibility at a growing community event.
Highlight points:
- On‑site brand presence and shout‑outs
- Inclusion in select digital promotions
- Custom activations available
The Best Surprises Come to Your Inbox
Stay connected with First Friday Surprise! From event news and featured vendors to giveaways and contests, our newsletter keeps the fun going all month long.