Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest
Saturday, January 31, 2026
Historic Downtown Glendale - Free Admission
Makers. Rhythms. Rides.
Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest returns with a high-energy celebration of creativity, innovation, and community. Presented by the City of Glendale and Art State Arizona, this free, family-friendly event transforms Historic Downtown into a vibrant cultural hub where art, science, and car culture come alive.
Explore hands-on maker experiences with the Arizona Science Center, live painting by 20+ local artists, and interactive STEM zones for all ages. Discover vintage engines and tractors, catch the thrill of the lowrider hop, and witness larger-than-life spectacle from Walter Productions’ custom vehicles and roving cirque performers.
At Art State Arizona, we believe that art is everywhere—in the craftsmanship of a classic car, the spark of invention, the beat of live music, and the murals that tell our stories. This festival brings that belief to life, turning streets into studios and sidewalks into stages. With a judged classic car show, Pinewood Derby races, artisan marketplace, local food vendors, and a lively beer and wine garden, there’s something for everyone to build, explore, and celebrate.
This isn’t just an event. It’s a joyful movement that shows how creativity connects us—and powers Arizona’s future.
Dates & Times
Saturday, January 31, 2026 | 10 AM - 5 PM
Free Admission
Location & Parking
Downtown Glendale Civic Center Plaza
Downtown Glendale – Civic Center Plaza
5750 W Glenn Dr, Glendale, AZ 85301
The festival takes place in the heart of Glendale’s historic downtown, filling the Civic Center Plaza and nearby district walkways. Surrounded by local shops, restaurants, and the charm of Catlin Court, this open-air setting is perfect for strolling, shopping, and savoring the day. Free parking is available in nearby public lots and garages, and the event is accessible by Valley Metro transit. All festival areas are ADA-accessible.
Festival Highlights
Walter Productions Big Red Car
Immersive roaming spectacle featuring giant custom vehicles and costumed cirque performers bringing surprise and delight all day long.
Arizona Science Center Maker Zone
Hands-on STEM and maker stations designed for young innovators—free play-based experiments, creative builds, and science magic.
Classic Car Show & Lowrider Hop
A stunning showcase of classics, customs, and lowriders—with 35+ judged awards, artist-designed trophies, and the crowd-favorite Lowrider Hop at 3 PM, hosted by Frank’s Hydraulics. It’s all about pride, craftsmanship, and community on wheels.
Antique Tractor and Engine Show
Discover history in motion with working antique engines, rope-making demos, and restored agricultural machines hosted by local experts. Hosted by the Arizona Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association.
Live Music & Roving Performers
Feel the rhythm all day long with a full lineup of live bands, cultural showcases, and pop-up performances. From the main stage to the streets, dancers, cirque artists, and one-man bands keep the festival moving and unexpected.
Live Painting & Artisans Marketplace
Watch live painters in action and explore a curated marketplace of fine art, jewelry, and handcrafted goods. From bold murals to automotive-inspired designs, every booth offers a fresh take on local creativity.
Sponsors
Classic Car and Lowrider Showcase
From timeless classics and hot rods to custom builds and lowriders, the Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest car show celebrates the craftsmanship, pride, and artistry that drive Arizona’s car culture. With over 35 judged awards and artist-designed trophies, this showcase honors the vehicles—and the visionaries—who turn steel, chrome, and paint into rolling works of art.
2026 Award Winners – Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest Car Show
Best in Show: Mike Klenofsky – 2015 Dodge Charger
Best Lowrider: Veronica Rodriguez – 1975 Chevy Caprice
Best Engine: Eddie Arredondo – 1962 Chevy Impala
Best Presentation: Tomas Macedo – 2022 Pedal Bike Cruiser
Largest Club Representation: Bowtie Family Car Club
Best Mural Design: Mike Klenofsky – 2015 Dodge Charger
Best Hydraulics: Gabriel Calles – 1996 Cadillac Fleetwood
Best Paintwork: Robert Olivas – 1982 Cadillac Coupe
Best Interior: Russ Hanson – 1957 Ford Thunderbird
Best Special Interest Vehicle: Robert Demlong – Antique Phoenix Police Car
Best Custom Build: John Silchia – 1948 Mini Limo
Best Convertible: Judith Turchany – 1970 Pontiac GTO Convertible
Best Motorcycle / Custom Bike: Michael LaBelle – 2001 APC Chopper
Best Hot Rod: Tom Sconce – 1927 Ford Model
Best Classic Vehicle (Pre-1960): Dave Schenck – 1941 Willys Silver
2nd Place Classic Vehicle (Pre-1960): David Moore – 1941 Master Deluxe Silver
Best Vintage Vehicle (1960–1979): Cosette Ingram – 1965 Ford Falcon Futura 2-Door Hardtop
2nd Place Vintage Vehicle (1960–1979): Steven Cornett – 1966 Chevrolet Corvette
Best Modern Vehicle (1980–Present): Robert Cruz – 2009 Ford Shelby GT500
2nd Place Modern Vehicle (1980–Present): Kenneth Goldstein – 1993 Ford Mustang
Best European / Import Vehicle: Joseph Papp – 1970 Datsun 240Z
2nd Place European / Import Vehicle: Tom Clare – 1966 Sunbeam Tiger
Best Thunderbird: James Rodgers – 1957 Ford Thunderbird
2nd Place Thunderbird: Larry Mead – 1976 Ford Thunderbird
Best Original Vehicle: Paul Martinez – 1937 Oldsmobile
2nd Place Original Vehicle: Patrick Giles – 1982 Camaro Z28
Best Classic Truck (Pre-1980): Tim Guerrero – 1950 Chevy Truck
2nd Place Classic Truck (Pre-1980): Richard Sledge – 1972 Ford F250
3rd Place Classic Truck (Pre-1980): Chad Lecki – 1973 Chevy Cheyenne Truck
Best Modern Truck (1980–Present): Mike Barron – 1987 GMC C-10
Special Category – Best Music System: Adolpho – 1965 Chevy Impala SS
Special Category – Best Youth Entry: Izyan – 1958 Radio Flyer Bike
Be part of the show and showcase your pride and joy alongside classic and custom cars. Registration not only secures your spot in this year’s festival, but also comes with a package of perks designed to make your experience unforgettable—from exclusive commemorative items to raffle entries, morning hospitality, and eligibility for one-of-a-kind artist-made awards.
Car Show Highlights
Over 35 judged awards, including Best in Show, Best Presentation, Best Engine, and Best Lowrider
Artist-designed trophies and awards celebrating craftsmanship and creativity
Open to Classics, Hot Rods, Lowriders, Motorcycles, Custom Bikes, Race Cars, and Pedal Cars
Coffee and morning snacks for participants, plus complimentary bottled water
(5) Free raffle tickets with over $2,000 in prizes
Commemorative dash plaque for all entrants
$5 discount voucher toward an official festival T-shirt
All vehicles must arrive by 9:30 AM and remain in place until 3:00 PM for pedestrian safety. The festival officially concludes at 5:00 PM.
No Drive Up Registration is Permitted.
Application Deadline: January 23, 2026 (or until 150 spots are filled)
No Day-of Registration Accepted
Registration Price:
Single Vehicle: $30
Motorcycle: $20
Bike or Pedal Car: $15
Each registration includes:
(1) Dash Plaque, (5) Raffle Tickets, $5 T-Shirt Discount Voucher
T-Shirts available onsite for $15 each.
Refunds available through January 17, 2026. No refunds after this date.
All exhibitors must provide their own chairs, tables, and supplies. Sales transactions are not permitted within show spaces, though “For Sale” signage on vehicles is allowed.
Contact Information
For registration questions or event details, please contact:
📧 matt@artstateaz.org
📞 520-274-2758
Live Painting Experience
Live painting takes center stage as artists capture cars, performances, and festival energy in real time. Working in styles from plein air to pop art, these painters create a dynamic fusion of automobiles and live art—inviting you to meet the artists and watch inspiration come to life.
Artisan Vendors & Exhibitors
More than just a classic car show
Beyond the cars, the festival spotlights artisans and exhibitors who bring craftsmanship to life in new forms. From fine art and jewelry to automotive-inspired crafts and local makers, every booth offers something unique to discover and take home.
Live Music & Performances
Live Music on the Mainstage and Strolling Performances
The festival’s mainstage comes alive all day with an eclectic mix of music and entertainment designed to keep the energy high and the crowd moving. From soulful blues to upbeat rock, Latin rhythms, and community favorites, each performance brings its own flavor to the celebration. The lineup highlights both nationally recognized acts and beloved local talent, ensuring there’s something for every music lover. Between sets, interactive entertainment and cultural showcases keep the plaza buzzing—making the stage the heartbeat of the festival and a true reflection of Glendale’s vibrant, diverse spirit.
Family Friendly Arts Activities
Activities for Everyone
Families will find no shortage of fun at the Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest. From bounce houses and face painting to live murals and arts workshops, the festival is designed to spark creativity for all ages. With family-friendly food options, hands-on learning zones, and space to play and explore, it’s the perfect day out for all generations.
- Arizona Science Center Maker Zone – Step inside three interactive tents where kids and families can engineer towers, explore the planets, test their balance, and race DASH robots through a themed obstacle course—blending STEM learning with hands-on fun.
- Musical Instrument Museum Experience – Get hands-on with instruments from around the world and discover global rhythms through play, guided by the Musical Instrument Museum.
- Pinewood Derby – Paint your own race car or cheer on creative entries decorated by local artists and businesses in this crowd-favorite youth competition.
- Jumping Castles & Youth Zones – Burn off energy in inflatable bounce castles and activity spaces designed just for kids.
- Arizona Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Display – Explore vintage agricultural equipment, make rope by hand, and try corn husking with the Arizona Early Day Gas Engine and Tractor Association.
- Facepainting + Free Arts and Crafts Tables – Create, decorate, and imagine at free make-and-take stations throughout the festival.
Culinary Vendors
A Taste for Everyone
Fuel your festival experience with an eclectic mix of food vendors offering something for every craving. From smoky BBQ and global street eats to classic festival favorites like kettle corn, ice cream, and sweet treats, the flavors are as diverse as the community itself. Local food trucks and culinary artisans will be serving up bold bites, comfort classics, and creative twists that pair perfectly with a day of cars, music, and celebration.
Downtown Glendale Experiences
Discover Downtown Glendale: Charm, Collectibles & Community
Step off the festival grounds and into a world of historic charm just beyond the Civic Center Plaza. Historic Downtown Glendale spans ten walkable square blocks, weaving together two distinct districts—Catlin Court, with its picket-fenced bungalows, shady tree-lined streets, and cozy boutiques housed in early 20th-century craftsman-style cottages, and Old Towne, where brick sidewalks, historic storefronts, and vibrant specialty shops invite you to slow down and explore.
Festival-goers can spend the day supporting a diverse mix of antique vendors, independent shops, and family-owned businesses offering everything from vintage clothing and collectibles to handmade crafts and local art. The area is alive with character, making every stop feel like a discovery.
Adding to the fun, attendees can collect limited edition stickers in honor of the City of Glendale by visiting participating downtown businesses. It’s the perfect way to experience the local flavor of Glendale—part shopping adventure, part treasure hunt, and all community spirit.
The Scribbled Hollow
5719 W. Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Pick up a limited-edition artist sticker, decorate a Pinewood Derby car for kids to race, and enjoy special in-store offers. Receive 10% off everything in the store and take part in a print-on-demand art experience, where personal artwork can be printed on merchandise and turned into a sticker. Available 10am until close (8–10pm).
Blue Corn Cafe & Bakery
7015 N. 58th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Visit Blue Corn Cafe’s onsite event booth, pick up a limited-edition artist sticker inside the café, and check out a Pinewood Derby car decorated for kids to race. Enjoy $1 off any handcrafted hot or iced coffee, tea, or refresher drink from 10am–2pm.
The Black Sheep
5717 W. Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
A limited-edition artist sticker pickup location offering a 16oz hot or iced Lavender Honey Latte with a bagel and cream cheese for $8.50. Available 7am–8pm on event day.
Bears & More
7146 N. 58th Dr, Glendale, AZ 85301
Pick up a limited-edition artist sticker and check out a Pinewood Derby car decorated by the shop for kids to race. In-store activities and participation run during event hours.
Memory Lane Trinkets and Treasures
5836 W. Palmaire Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Stop in to collect a limited-edition artist sticker during the event. Available 10:30am–4pm.
Pink House Boutique
7009 N. 58th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Pick up a limited-edition artist sticker and make custom beaded hairpins for free at this hands-on activity inside the shop. Open to ages 7+, available 11am–4pm.
Packer Family Ice Cream / Packer Family Photography
7146 N. 58th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Pick up a limited-edition artist sticker, check out a Pinewood Derby car decorated for kids to race, and enjoy special promotions throughout the event weekend.
Pizza Old Roma
5740 W. Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Stop in to collect a limited-edition artist sticker and see a Pinewood Derby car decorated for kids to race.
Knokie’s Fashions
5750 W. Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Pick up a limited-edition artist sticker and check out a Pinewood Derby car decorated for kids to race.
Glendale Flowers and Gifts
7163 N. 58th Dr, Glendale, AZ 85301
Pick up a limited-edition artist sticker, view a Pinewood Derby car decorated for kids to race, and enjoy special promotions throughout the event weekend.
Drawn To Comics
5801 W. Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Stop in to collect a limited-edition artist sticker and check out a Pinewood Derby car decorated for kids to race.
Cactus VHS
7011 N. 58th Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Pick up a limited-edition artist sticker and view a Pinewood Derby car decorated for kids to race.
Arizona Information Center
5836 W. Palmaire Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Stop by to collect a limited-edition artist sticker during the event.
2 Share a Unique Boutique
5805–5807 W. Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Pick up a limited-edition artist sticker, see a Pinewood Derby car decorated for kids to race, and enjoy special promotions throughout the event weekend.
Status24
5754 W. Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85301
Stop in to collect a limited-edition artist sticker and check out a Pinewood Derby car decorated for kids to race.
Taqueria El Sol
5713 W. Glendale Ave, Glendale, AZ 85303
Visit Taqueria El Sol at their onsite event booth during the festival.
Participate as an Artist or Exhibitor at the Festival
Being part of the Downtown Glendale Arts & Culture Fest: BBQ, Rhythms, and Rides means more than just showing up—it’s about plugging into a celebration that draws thousands of attendees and turns the heart of Glendale into a vibrant hub of culture, community, and connection.
As a vendor or exhibitor, you’ll showcase your products, artwork, or culinary creations to an enthusiastic audience ready to explore, taste, and shop. With the festival’s eclectic mix of classic car enthusiasts, families, foodies, and art lovers, you’ll gain valuable exposure, build new customer relationships, and expand your brand in an energetic, welcoming atmosphere.
Festival applications are currently closed. Applications for the 2026-2027 Festival Season will be announced on June 1, 2026
Volunteer
Volunteer with us and be part of the excitement at the Festival! From welcoming guests and supporting artists to helping the event run smoothly behind the scenes, there’s a role for everyone. Opportunities include artist relief, artist hospitality, beverage sales support, information booth and festival ambassador roles, and event setup and breakdown. Volunteer shifts will be posted and available for sign-up beginning 30 days prior to the event—join us in creating an unforgettable celebration of art, flavor, and community.
Sponsor the Event
Support the Cause
As a sponsor, you’ll align your business with Art State Arizona’s mission to make the arts essential to everyday life while demonstrating your commitment to supporting creativity, local economies, and community well-being. Sponsorship perks include prominent brand visibility, direct engagement with festival-goers, and recognition as a community leader helping to fuel cultural and economic vitality across Arizona.
Together, vendors, exhibitors, and sponsors are the lifeblood of the festival—helping bring the experience to life while gaining meaningful benefits in return.
Tips for Attending the Festival
Know Before You Go
Admission: Free for all ages.
Weather: Outdoor event—plan for Arizona sunshine.
Cash/Card: Most vendors accept both, but carrying cash can help.
Family-Friendly: Kids Zone, jumping castles, and arts activities available.
Accessibility: ADA-compliant festival footprint.
