Carb-tastic Fun Returns For Second Annual FRIED French Fry, Music Festival

On Saturday, April 9, the world’s favorite side dish takes center stage once again at Margaret T. Hance Park from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Photo: Jacob Tyler Dunn)

From the calorie-loving creators of the Phoenix Pizza Festival, the FRIED French Fry & Music Festival is back. On Saturday, April 9, the world’s favorite side dish takes center stage once again at Margaret T. Hance Park from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

FRIED presents some of the most creative versions of gourmet fries from local, deep-fried artisans, and is produced by PHX Fest, in partnership with Downtown Phoenix Inc.

(Photo: Jacob Tyler Dunn)

“Activating downtown parks with accessible, family-friendly experiences is a top priority for our organization and Fried checks all of those key boxes,” said R.J. Price, chief growth officer for Downtown Phoenix Inc.

Organizer David Tyda and his team are “festival mad scientists” according to Price, and everything they touch turns to fun. Fried won’t be an exception.

(Photo: Jacob Tyler Dunn)

This year’s participants include The American Poutine Co., Zombie Bones, Sunny’s Gyros, Random AF Taqueria, Sandwichcraft and more. Smaller sample sizes will be available for attendees who want to try as many vendors as possible, while larger portions for sharing (or not sharing) with friends and family will be available as well.

General admission is $12, and all food purchases are separate from the ticketed price.

(Photo: Jacob Tyler Dunn)

Attendees can expect everything from carne asada and pulled pork fries to kimchee, chorizo, and even lobster fries. There will be Cali burritos everywhere, and maybe even French fry pizza.

On stage, the music line-up is as diverse as the offerings. Highlights include Las Calakas, The Limit Club, Vid Nelson, The Deadbeat Cousins, and DJs from Recordbar Radio. There will be two stages of music entertainment.

(Photo: Jacob Tyler Dunn)

Also part of the festivities: lawn games from AZ Board Source, bars with craft beer from Huss Brewing, local market vendors, and other culinary offerings like burgers, desserts, and of course, more fried foods.

For those looking to ride bikes — the festival is offering bike valet through Phoenix Spokes People.