Now in its fourth year, Viva PHX continues to provide us with near unlimited opportunities to discover. From talented musicians from around the world to amazing venues (and many a hidden track along the way), this is a true walking music festival that is best experienced than explained.
There are at least 100 reasons to go to Viva PHX this Saturday, March 11 (see: the awesome lineup), but I’m going to give you just a few things you haven’t seen before.
AZ Concert Poster Show

More than 100 posters from concerts held around the state will be on display at the Grace Chapel venue on Monroe Steet and Third Avenue. These prized possessions have been hidden away for five, 10, 20 years, in garages, audio rooms and studios to be seen only by select family and friends. Intended as a community-driven exhibit, the AZ Concert Poster Show is a chance to see poster art dating back decades from some of the most beloved musicians and bands that have toured through our state. Some are stunning pieces of work, others a nostalgic trip to the concerts you went to or wish you went to – many are both.
Phoenix Art Museum and Daniel Funkhouser’s Roving Art Exhibition

The Phoenix Art Museum has commissioned artist Daniel Funkhouser to create a one-time, roving exhibition that will bring light, color and some added spontaneity to the streets this Saturday. We won’t give away too much, but keep your eyes peeled at the Monroe Mercado and all around downtown for some curious characters and their vibrant neon displays of light and tomfoolery. Plus, attendees can use their Viva PHX wristbands for $3 off admission to the Phoenix Art Museum through March 31.
Venues

Comerica Theatre takes the moniker main stage this year, featuring headliners Girl Talk and Phoenix’s own The Maine, with a sister stage set outside the venue in the middle of Washington Street. Also new this year, The Pueblo, a small, mural-covered building that’s just steps away from Crescent Ballroom and known for piquing the curiosity of passersby. Music seems to regularly pour from its open front door, and this Saturday you’ll get the chance to take a peak inside the space as bands from Seattle, Los Angeles and Southern California perform. Viva PHX
Street Performances

This year you’ll find the music, but the music will also find you. The Funkhaus Brass Band will traverse the streets of downtown, while the Fushicho Daiko Dojo taiko drummers will entertain passersby on Washington Street. Walter Productions’ giant art car, Big Red, will dazzle, awe and invigorate you. You can find them at the Monroe Mercado or driving the party around downtown.
Tickets are on sale at vivaphx.com for $30, or you can skip the service fees and purchase tickets in-person at Comerica Theatre on Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday starting at 12 p.m. Online ticket buyers must exchange their tickets for wristbands at Comerica Theatre.