SUSD Students Take the Stage at Scottsdale ArtsFest 2026

There’s something powerful about seeing a city gather around its young artists.

On March 6–7, 2026, the fourth annual Scottsdale ArtsFest transforms the Scottsdale Civic Center into a vibrant showcase of imagination, collaboration and community spirit. At the heart of it all are more than 1,000 students from Scottsdale Unified School District (SUSD), stepping confidently into the spotlight to share their creative voices.

The festival’s move to the Civic Center marks a new era for ArtsFest. After three successful years at ASU SkySong, the downtown setting opens the celebration to an even broader audience, inviting families, neighbors and visitors to experience two days of performances, exhibitions and hands-on artistic exploration in the center of Scottsdale.

Throughout the Civic Center, curated exhibitions will feature painting, drawing, sculpture and mixed media pieces created by elementary, middle and high school students. Large collaborative murals, bold in scale and vision, demonstrate not only technical growth, but teamwork and creative confidence.

On the 360 Stage, choirs, orchestras, bands and theater groups fill the air with music and movement. A special family-friendly performance by Arizona Opera adds another professional layer to the weekend, modeling artistic excellence while celebrating young performers.

For Superintendent Dr. Scott Menzel, the event represents something deeper than a showcase.

“Arts education is essential to helping young people discover who they are and what they can achieve, and this festival showcases the very best of that creative spirit throughout our district,” Menzel said. “We are deeply grateful for the city of Scottdale and all our community partners who come together to help make this showcase possible. Their continued support, collaboration and belief in the power of arts education allow our students to shine and ensure that this event remains a vibrant celebration.”

During the weekend, Scottsdale Community Partners hosts its annual Alli Ortega Empty Bowls Fundraiser. Handcrafted ceramic bowls, created by SUSD students and community members, are available for purchase, alongside an online auction featuring class art projects and donated goods.

Proceeds support critical programs operated in partnership with Scottsdale Human Services, including Vista del Camino Food Bank, Back-to-School assistance and Healthy Packs weekend food programs serving SUSD students.

In this way, student creativity becomes a catalyst for direct community impact. Art is not only displayed, it sustains.

ArtsFest stands as a testament to what’s possible when education leaders, nonprofit organizations and civic partners align around a shared mission. SUSD brings student talent and dedication. Scottsdale Arts provides vision and professional expertise. Community partners contribute resources and outreach. Together, they create a cultural experience that belongs to the entire city.

Over two days in March, the Civic Center will hum with music, color and connection. Murals will stretch across walls. Applause will echo across the lawn. Young artists will see their work framed, lit and celebrated.

In those moments, the true impact of partnership will be unmistakable, a community investing in its students, and students rising brilliantly to meet the opportunity.

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