VIVA PHX returning in 2026 as 6-day cultural event in downtown Phoenix

PHOENIX — VIVA PHX, a multiday festival in downtown Phoenix, returned last year after a seven-year hiatus and is set to fill the city air with music in spring 2026.

Next year, the event will last six days from April 15 to 20 and host performances at a variety of venues, including Arizona Financial Theatre, The Van Buren, Crescent Ballroom, Valley Bar, Walter Studios, Gracie’s Tax Bar, Cornish Pasty Basement and The Abbey on Monroe.

It will also host musical acts at the “Experience Phoenix” Block Party, which is located on 4th Avenue between Washington and Van Buren streets.

Unlike last year where general admission tickets were $70 and the event was only one day, the 2026 version will offer mostly free concert viewing over six days, according to a press release.

“We learned a lot from bringing VIVA PHX back last year,” VIVA PHX Director Matt Baquet said in the release. “Phoenix’s spirit cannot be contained in one afternoon. We believe this city — and Arizona — are among the most exciting places in the world, and VIVA PHX aims to show exactly why.

“The idea that ‘culture happens when we’re together,’ a cornerstone of VIVA’s philosophy, inspires us to keep the majority of events free and open, creating space for people to come together when the world needs it most.”

VIVA PHX celebrated its first event in 2014 and it will continue to highlight the Valley’s culture through live concerts and local pop-up food vendors.

No performances have been announced at this time, but over the years the event has hosted Halsey, The Neighbourhood and Freddie Gibbs.

Other artists and bands that have performed at the downtown Phoenix festival include Cuco Gannons and The Walters.

Parking arrangements have also not been announced for next year, but the Plaza Garage, 2nd Avenue Garage and Cityscape West Garage were all options in 2024.

VIVA PHX schedule of events

Here is the projected scheduling of events for VIVA PHX in 2026:

• Wednesday, April 15: Event opening celebration
• Thursday, April 16: Talks, open art exhibition viewing and opportunities for cross-industry meetups
• Friday-Saturday, April 17-18: Select free concerts and Arizona State University Pop Music Career Conference
• Sunday, April 19: VIVA PHX VIP dinner and community gathering
• Monday, April 20: Event closing celebration.

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