Scottsdale’s Canal Convergence is back. Here’s what is new in 2025

It’s nearly time for Canal Convergence, Scottsdale Arts’ 14th annual free public art show that runs for 10 days at the Scottsdale waterfront.

For 2025, the theme is “SHOWTIME” and guests will be able to experience artworks that explores the dynamic between the audience and the performer along with workshops and live performances.

“This year’s Canal Convergence attendees will be amazed at all the unique and creative ways the public art installations embody the SHOWTIME theme,” Jennifer Gill, deputy director for Canal Convergence, said in a news release. “Visitors can look forward to experiencing the dynamic between viewer and performer as they transform from one to the other, depending on which artwork they choose to engage with. We look forward to everyone joining us this year as we celebrate the power and magnificence of performance in public art.”

While the artworks are sure to be showstopping, at its heart Canal Convergence is an event that puts a spotlight on interactivity, sustainability and the union of water, art and light. Here’s what else you need to know.

When is Canal Convergence 2025?

Canal Convergence will return to the Scottsdale Waterfront from Nov. 7-16, 2025.

Is Canal Convergence free?

Yes. It’s free to stroll the Scottsdale Waterfront and see the Canal Convergence artwork. Some workshops and other activities have fees or require tickets.

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Canal Convergence parking

Here are several places to find free parking for Canal Convergence in Scottsdale:

Scottsdale Waterfront underground parking garage, 7135 E. Camelback Road.
Craftsman North Lot, 4252 N. Craftsman Court.
Galleria Garage, 4301-4343 N. Scottsdale Road.
Fifth Avenue Garage, 7143 E. Fifth Ave.

Canal Convergence 2025 exhibits

There will be a total of 10 art exhibits on display for 2025’s Canal Convergence including returning artist Big Art’s “BIG TV” which follows the group’s theme of melding the technology of yesterday, today and tomorrow with large-scale artworks to bring a new artistic, immersive vision to Canal Convergence guests.

Guests can also look forward to these art exhibitions that will be on display among others:

“Long Wave” by Pneuhaus: A 330-foot-long and over 20-foot-tall helical inflatable light sculpture that explores motion, perspective and repetition.
“Showtime” by Walter Productions: This work captures the essence of live entertainment by intertwining flames, light and music spelled out in marquee-style letters that float across the canal.
“Stargate” by Chalk River Labs: An innovative, immersive projection sculpture designed to give viewers an awe-inspiring journey through the cosmos.
“Parallel Flow” by Dina Fisher and David Howe: An interactive light and sound show where guests will be able to activate the lights using an interactive sensor.
“HD BPM” by MASARY Studios: This instrument invites guests to strike illuminated drum pads, transforming existing structures into a stage where light becomes the music.
“Pulse” by MattCreative: A series of suspended rings of light, encircling the trees along the canal and pulsing in rhythmic patterns that reveal a hidden choreography of connection.

Canal Convergence 2025 workshops and performances

The interactive artworks aren’t the only thing to get excited about when it comes to Canal Convergence. For 2025, there will be nearly 100 creative workshops, eclectic performances, educational tours and other activities.

And just like the art, the workshops and performances will follow the “SHOWTIME” theme as well.

“The Nationwide Innovation Zone will host an array of workshops spanning this year’s theme, SHOWTIME,” said Lyndal Pleasant, community engagement manager for Scottsdale Arts Learning & Innovation in a press release. “Performing arts include so many topics: music, dance, theater, visual arts, technical production, costuming and fashion; the list goes on. The goal of the workshops is to bring in a variety of professional artists and organizations to showcase and share their piece of performing artistry.”

Guests will be able to enjoy a wide range of workshops from a light-based model-making workshop to learning to make puppets, plus workshops that involve the performing arts as well. For the full list of workshops and performances, visit scottsdalearts.org.