Eric Clapton Announces Short 2026 Arena Tour

The legendary guitarist will play six Midwest shows with special guest Jimmie Vaughan.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Eric Clapton, now 81 years old, has announced a short arena tour in the Midwest this September. The six-show run will feature special guest Jimmie Vaughan and hit cities like Detroit, Chicago, and Kansas City. Tickets go on sale to the general public on March 6, with presales available now.

Why it matters

At 81 years old, Clapton remains one of the most iconic and influential guitarists of all time. His decision to hit the road for a brief tour is sure to excite his legions of fans, who will have a chance to see the living legend perform classics from his storied career with Cream, Blind Faith, Derek and the Dominos, and as a solo artist.

The details

Clapton's 2026 tour will feature six shows in the Midwest, with stops in Detroit, Cincinnati, Chicago, Milwaukee, St. Paul, and Kansas City. He'll be joined by fellow guitar great Jimmie Vaughan as a special guest. The setlists are expected to feature a mix of Clapton's biggest hits, as well as deep cuts and blues standards that have been staples of his live shows over the decades.

  • Tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday, March 6 at 10 am local time.
  • The tour is scheduled to take place in September 2026.

The players

Eric Clapton

An English rock and blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter who is considered one of the most influential guitarists of all time. He is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo artist and as a member of the bands Cream, Blind Faith, and Derek and the Dominos.

Jimmie Vaughan

An American blues rock guitarist and singer who rose to fame as the older brother and collaborator of the late Stevie Ray Vaughan. He is known for his work with the Fabulous Thunderbirds and as a solo artist.

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What’s next

Tickets for the Eric Clapton tour go on sale to the general public on Friday, March 6 at 10 am local time through Ticketmaster and other verified ticketing sites.

The takeaway

At 81 years old, the legendary Eric Clapton is still captivating audiences with his unparalleled guitar skills and soulful blues-rock sound. Fans will have a rare chance to see the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer perform his most beloved songs live this September in the Midwest.