Downtown Phoenix concert venue Crescent Ballroom turns 15

Crescent Ballroom has become such a mainstay of the local music scene that it’s hard to remember a time when it wasn’t around.

But it’s true: Before Oct. 3, 2011, we didn’t have the auto garage turned concert hall that’s hosted thousands of shows and led the charge to put live music venues back downtown.

As we wrote in 2015, “the stylish concert hall and lounge at Second Avenue and Van Buren Street quickly became a focal point for live music in downtown Phoenix and a gathering spot with its distinctive lineup of nightly shows and performances.”

Fifteen years in, Crescent is still a hub of music and nightlife, and it’s time to celebrate.

On Saturday, Oct. 3, Crescent Ballroom will hold an all-day party to mark its 15th anniversary complete with 15 great local artists: 10 bands, four DJs, and trivia/karaoke host Corey G.

“I can’t believe Crescent Ballroom has been around for 15 years. Over 10,000 bands, dance troupes, authors, DJs and even a wedding or two have graced that stage,” owner Charlie Levy said in the announcement. “It’s something special for me and the team.”

All of the performers have Arizona roots and have played at the venue before, whether months or years ago. The lineup includes a mix of Crescent’s favorite locals, some of whom have played at Crescent since day one, and some of the more recent favorites. The lineup includes Las Calakas, Pariah Pete, MRCH, Practically People, Vinyl Station, Samuel L Cool J, Jerusafunk, Tournament, SweetBleeders, Winston Williams, and DJs Djents, Sean Watson, Hartbreaks and Mitch Freedom, playing across two stages starting at 3 p.m.

“Our booking manager, Taylor, and our original booker, Stephen Chilton (of Psyko Steve Presents), have created a great party to celebrate the anniversary. I hope everyone in the Phoenix area and beyond can stop by,” Levy said. “I want to thank everyone who has been on that stage, everyone who has come to a show at Crescent, and everyone who’s worked at Crescent. It’s been a dream come true.”

Tickets are on sale now on the Crescent Ballroom website. Limited early-bird tickets are available for just $15. A portion of all proceeds supports the Logan’s Healing Sounds Fund 501(c)(3) nonprofit.