Sheila E. to Headline 2026 Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival

The legendary percussionist and singer will top the bill at the 33rd annual celebration in downtown Phoenix.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 1:26pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A dynamic abstract composition of geometric shapes in bright primary colors, conceptually representing the energy and festive atmosphere of a Cinco de Mayo celebration.The vibrant Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival will bring the community together with music, dance, and cultural celebration.Phoenix Today

The Cinco De Mayo Phoenix Festival is returning to downtown Phoenix on Sunday, May 3, 2026, with a high-profile headliner - the legendary Sheila E. The festival, now in its 33rd year, will feature the acclaimed percussionist and singer as the main act, drawing music fans from across the region to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

Why it matters

Sheila E. is a renowned musician known for her work with Prince and her own successful solo career. Her appearance as the headliner for the Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival will bring additional star power and excitement to the long-running annual event, which celebrates Mexican-American culture and heritage in the Phoenix community.

The details

Sheila E., whose full name is Sheila Escovedo, first gained fame in the 1980s as a percussionist and vocalist, collaborating extensively with Prince. She has also released several successful solo albums over the course of her career. The Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival will mark one of Sheila E.'s highest-profile performances in recent years, as she continues to tour and record new music.

  • The Cinco De Mayo Phoenix Festival will take place on Sunday, May 3, 2026.
  • Sheila E. is scheduled to headline the festival's main stage performance.

The players

Sheila E.

A renowned percussionist and singer known for her work with Prince and successful solo career.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I'm excited to be the headliner for this year's Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival. It's always an honor to perform for such a vibrant and passionate community.”

— Sheila E.

What’s next

Tickets for the 2026 Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival, including Sheila E.'s headlining performance, will go on sale to the general public on March 1, 2026.

The takeaway

The Cinco de Mayo Phoenix Festival's ability to attract a high-profile artist like Sheila E. as the headliner demonstrates the event's continued growth and importance in celebrating Mexican-American culture and heritage in the Phoenix community.