There's Still Time to Visit Scottsdale's Canal Convergence

There's still time to visit Canal Convergence!. This interactive art display takes place at the Scottsdale Canal, and is enjoyable, entertaining, and fun!  There’s live music every night and lots of intriguing workshops for you and your family. Here's what you need to know.

 What Is It?

Canal Convergence is a free, 10-night outdoor art event at the Scottsdale Waterfront. It features huge, lighted, interactive art works. There is also live music and dance, food trucks, and a beer and wine garden. The event also schedules a variety of workshops and other family-friendly events. 

The Fireflection, pictured above, features eight floating platforms that support mirrored geometric forms. Flame heads hidden within each shape light up the sky multiple times a night with dazzling fire performances set to music. 

The Eqube is a 10-foot cube with 10,000 LED lights. You can use an interactive console to control the colors, patterns, and intensity of light created by the cube.

The Array is a a group of 16 mirrors that display 100 clips of engaging videos. As you approach the mirror, it “power up” to reveal a fantastical world behind the mirror. As your reflection dissipates, it reveals creative and inspiring video clips before you. 

When Is It?

Canal Convergence is on display until November 17. The art installations are 24/7, but are only active between 6-9 pm most days. The best time to go is sunset (around 5:30). As the sun sets over the canal, the lights of the displays switch on, creating a carnival-like effect.

Different installations and activities take place at different times of the day, so check the website to find out specific times for each event. 

What to Know If You Plan to Go 

Public parking is free and easy to find. There are two public garages at Marshall Way and Via de Soleri. Use this map to find parking.

Here are some of the most vegan-friendly or gluten-free restaurants in the area that I recommend: 

• Olive & Ivy is right at the entrance of the Convergence, it has outdoor seating next to the canal.

• The Herb Box uses local growers and suppliers, making healthy food delicious.

• Farm & Craft is a fast, casual restaurant using farm-fresh ingredients.

• P.F. Changs offers Chinese food at the corner of Scottsdale and Camelback Rd.

• Sauce has a variety of vegan and gluten-free pasta, pizza, and salads.

How It Affects Your Home's Value 

Events like this improve the value of your home if you live in or near the Old Town Scottsdale area. Since it is paid for by the City of Scottsdale, it shows the commitment the city has to the continued growth of the area. It also increases revenue from the sales taxes paid to local retail shops and restaurants. Event visitors will return to the area to explore other areas they didn't get to see on their first visit.