Canal Convergence event blends water, art, light in Scottsdale for 10 days

PHOENIX – What do you get when you combine water, art and light with beer, food and live entertainment?

That’s right, it’s time for Scottsdale’s award-winning Canal Convergence public art festival.

The 10-day free event kicks off Friday and runs through Nov. 17 along and in the Arizona Canal between Goldwater Boulevard and Scottsdale Road south of Camelback Road.

Visitors can take in the sights and sounds from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. each Friday and Saturday of the run and 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays and weekdays.

Canal Convergence is best known for its large-scale light installations, some of which have interactive components.

One of this year’s centerpieces is “Water Serpent,” a metallic beast that spits fire as it floats in the canal.

There will also be a beer and wine garden, food vendors, family-friendly activities, live bands, dance performances and more.

As part of its emphasis on sustainability, the event will include a beer festival on its first two days featuring beverages crafted by 10 local breweries using water recycled at Scottsdale’s Advanced Water Treatment Plant.

A fundraising closing celebration will be held Nov. 16 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the event’s VIP lounge on the Scottsdale Waterfront. Tickets are $50, which includes a $25 charitable donation for putting on next year’s show.

Canal Convergence has been held at least once a year since debuting in 2012 and won a 2019 Grand Pinnacle Gold Award from the International Festivals & Events Association.

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