Wyclef Jean, Killer Mike, PJ Morton and Big Freedia will anchor a genre-spanning Music at the Intersection when it returns July 17–19. MATI 2026 will bring more than 100 performances to the Grand Center Arts District and expand its footprint with new venues, new programming and a four-day festival experience. The 2026 edition opens with a major new addition: eight-time Grammy winner Jon Batiste headlining a special kickoff concert at The Fabulous Fox Theatre (a separate ticketed event) on July 16, marking the first time MATI has extended beyond its traditional weekend slate.
The main lineup continues MATI’s signature blend of global star power and deep St. Louis roots. Neo-soul favorites Moonchild, rising R&B voice Destin Conrad and the Latin instrumental trio LA LOM join the bill, along with a cross-generational pairing of funk legends Zapp and modern groove duo Tuxedo. The festival also stretches across regions and eras with the Memphis-rooted “Take Me to the River” showcase featuring Carla Thomas, while New Orleans makes its presence felt through sets from PJ Morton and Big Freedia.
Even with its national reach, MATI keeps St. Louis artists at the center of its identity. Ferguson-born trumpeter Keyon Harrold returns as Artist-in-Residence, curating and performing across multiple sets—including collaborations with Rapsody, AJ McQueen and Tef Poe. Two-time Grammy-winning drummer Chris Dave joins as Artist-at-Large, appearing throughout the weekend and helping lead a “Miles Jam” tribute honoring Miles Davis in what would have been the East St. Louis legend’s 100th year.
The festival’s expansion is as much about place as it is about programming. In addition to The Fox, MATI’s stages will include Jazz St. Louis, The Sovereign, The Big Top and Sophie’s Artist Lounge—creating a fully walkable indoor-outdoor experience across one of the country’s most vibrant arts districts.
“Grand Center is a top arts district in the nation,” said Chris Hansen. “As MATI continues to grow and evolve, we’re thrilled to welcome The Fabulous Fox Theatre and Jazz St. Louis as official festival main stages. Utilizing the existing infrastructure of world-class venues allows us to deliver a high caliber, fully walkable indoor-outdoor festival experience at an affordable price.”
Hansen emphasized that the festival’s growth is matched by a commitment to access. “And for those without a festival pass, the District is still for you,” he said. “We’re going even bigger with the free community block party this year. Washington Avenue is coming alive, with rides, roller skating, art, music and more. MATI has something for everyone.”
That block party remains one of MATI’s most beloved anchors—stretching along Washington Avenue with DJs, live performances, visual art, a roller skating rink and a vendor marketplace spotlighting local creatives. This year’s programming includes appearances by DJ Spinderella and Natasha Diggs, carnival rides, pop-up fashion shows and a curated marketplace. In partnership with Frizz Fest, the Blooming Business Market will highlight local artisans and entrepreneurs with handcrafted goods, food and community resources.
MATI’s conference component also returns, offering free panels and networking opportunities designed to support the region’s creative economy. Sessions will focus on pitching ideas, building sustainable income streams, content creation and branding. Film-focused discussions presented by Cinema St. Louis and networking opportunities supported by Arch Grants round out the slate—reinforcing MATI’s mission to uplift not just performers, but the ecosystem around them.
Weekend passes start at $109, with single-day options and premium experiences available, including a Delux Magazine partnership package.
Now in its sixth year, Music at the Intersection continues to evolve into a cultural platform—one that honors the musical lineage of St. Louis, amplifies the voices shaping its present and connects the city’s creative spirit to a global stage.
“MATI is a celebration of St. Louis,” he said. “We’re thrilled to have so many great community organizations on our production team.”
For tickets, the full schedule and details on all MATI 2026 programming, visit www.MATIstl.org.
Living It content is produced with funding by the ARPA for the Arts grants program in partnership with the Regional Arts Commission of St. Louis and the Community Development Administration.
