Few festivals can match the setting of the Zion Canyon Music Festival. Nestled at the gateway to Zion National Park, the annual celebration returns to the Bit & Spur backyard in Springdale on September 25–26, inviting music lovers to experience two days of live performances surrounded by the spectacular scenery of the American Southwest.
Now celebrating its 16th year, the Zion Canyon Music Festival has earned a reputation for bringing nationally touring artists and outstanding regional talent to an intimate outdoor venue. The relaxed atmosphere, stunning red rock backdrop, and welcoming community have made the festival a favorite destination for both locals and visitors looking for an experience beyond the typical concert.
Leading the lineup this year is Scott Pemberton O Theory, whose electrifying guitar work and fearless improvisation have earned the band a devoted following throughout the country. Blending funk, rock, blues, and jazz into an explosive live performance, Scott Pemberton O Theory delivers a dynamic show filled with masterful musicianship and inventive jams. Their Saturday night performance is expected to be one of the festival’s biggest highlights.
Friday night features Sgt. Splendor, an acclaimed collaboration between singer-songwriters Kate Vargas and Eric McFadden. Their powerful songwriting, rich harmonies, and genre-crossing blend of Americana, rock, soul, and blues create a performance that is both deeply personal and undeniably engaging.
Saturday’s schedule also includes Blu Egyptian, a Northern California favorite known for infectious grooves and an adventurous musical style. Combining elements of funk, jam, rock, Latin, and world music, the band’s energetic performances invite the audience to dance while showcasing spontaneous improvisation.
Opening the weekend is Planck, an innovative group whose music explores the space where jazz, progressive rock, funk, and electronic influences intersect. Their cinematic soundscapes and adventurous compositions offer a captivating start to the festival while showcasing the musical diversity that has become a hallmark of the event.
Beyond the music, attendees can enjoy local food vendors, craft beer, and artisan booths. Whether discovering a new favorite artist or reconnecting with friends beneath Zion’s towering sandstone cliffs, the experience remains unlike any other. From its intimate setting at the Bit & Spur to its thoughtfully curated lineup of nationally recognized and emerging artists, the festival offers a one-of-a-kind experience where unforgettable performances meet one of America’s most iconic landscapes.
