ArenalBlues 2026 Strikes the First Chord in Xàbia
After a showstopping launch concert, four days of blues return to Arenal Beach this April.
Xàbia has officially unveiled the fourth edition of Festival ArenalBlues 2026, riding high on the resounding success of last Thursday’s concert by Sheryl Youngblood at the Conservatori de Música de Xàbia. The American artist, an internationally respected torchbearer of the Chicago blues sound, packed the auditorium and delivered a powerful, soul-soaked performance that confirmed just how far the festival has come. The evening also served as the official launch of ArenalBlues 2026, set to take place from April 23 to 26 along the Paseo del Tenista David Ferrer at Playa del Arenal.
A launch concert that signals steady growth
The organising association, Asociación Xablues, highlighted the importance of featuring an international figure like Youngblood to present this year’s edition, strengthening ArenalBlues’ position on the blues circuit.
Meanwhile, the Asociación de Empresarios Xàbia Arenal pointed to the positive ripple effect these cultural events have on local shops, restaurants and hotels, especially during the mid-season. Festivals like this help extend tourism beyond the summer months and keep the town’s economic pulse beating year-round.
The Department of Culture of the Ayuntamiento de Xàbia reaffirmed its support, describing ArenalBlues as a strategic commitment to high-quality culture and to promoting Xàbia as a vibrant destination in every season.
April 23 to 26: Four days of blues by the Mediterranean
With February’s sparkling preview now behind it, Xàbia is gearing up for four days of live music from April 23 to 26, when Arenal Beach once again becomes the blues capital of the Marina Alta.
This fourth edition will feature:
- Mingo Balaguer’s Blueshadow
- Martin Burguez & His Rhythm Combo
- Arnau and The Honky Tonk Losers
- Koko Jean & The Tonics
- Stevie Zee Band
- El Oso y Sus Sabandijas
- Gonzalo Portugal
- La Beiztegui Blues Band
- The Ubangi Stomp
- Epi y Blues
- The Pickin’ Boppers
The programme blends classic blues roots with kindred styles, cementing ArenalBlues as one of the most appealing musical events on the regional calendar.
Culture as a driving force
ArenalBlues stands as a shining example of public and private collaboration between Asociación Xablues, Asociación de Empresarios Xàbia Arenal and the Town Hall of Xàbia. Together, they demonstrate how culture can strengthen community ties, energise local business and boost tourism all at once.
After the triumphant opening concert with Sheryl Youngblood, Xàbia now looks toward April with anticipation, ready for four days when guitars shimmer in the sea breeze, the promenade hums with visitors, and the blues once again takes centre stage by the Mediterranean.
