news / blog

DERBY Q COUNTRY FEST RIDES INTO MESA MAY 2 — A FULL DAY OF ARIZONA COUNTRY, BBQ, COMPETITION & DERBY DAY FUN 🏇🔥🎶

Something big is coming to Mesa, and AZDCMA is proud to be right in the middle of it. Following the incredible momentum from our Valentine’s Day celebration, the Arizona Desert Country Music Association is once again teaming up with Cowboy Lifestyle Network to bring Arizona one of the most exciting spring events of the season — Derby Q Country Fest.

Set for Saturday, May 2, 2026, this one-of-a-kind country lifestyle experience takes over Dink & Dine Pickle Park for a full day packed with live Arizona country music, mouthwatering BBQ, competitive action, Kentucky Derby excitement, and unforgettable community energy.

FROM THE MOMENT YOU ARRIVE, THE ENERGY STARTS

Derby Q Country Fest was built to be a true destination event.

From the second guests walk through the gates, there is something happening in every direction.

The Arizona State Cornhole Championships will take center stage inside the indoor courts, bringing a competitive buzz that adds another layer of excitement to the day. Whether you’re there to compete or simply enjoy the atmosphere, the energy will be impossible to miss.

Meanwhile, BBQ lovers are in for a serious treat.

Some of Arizona’s top pitmasters will be onsite for a live BBQ exhibition, serving up bold flavors, smoked perfection, and serious culinary talent.

Featured pitmasters include respected names such as:

  • Brad Prose of Chiles and Smoke BBQ
  • Josh Dae of BBQ Island

This alone is worth showing up hungry for.

LIVE ARIZONA COUNTRY MUSIC ALL DAY LONG 🎶🌵

At the heart of Derby Q Country Fest is what matters most to us at AZDCMA:

putting Arizona artists front and center.

This lineup is stacked with homegrown talent performing throughout the day and into the evening.

12:00 PM — Western Fusion Band

The day kicks off with a sound that feels unmistakably Arizona. Western Fusion Band brings classic country roots with modern energy, setting the perfect tone from the first note.

2:00 PM — Lacey Rashea Duo

Lacey brings soul, heart, and the kind of storytelling country music fans connect with instantly.

2:30 PM — Bone’s Band

This is where the energy starts climbing. Bone’s Band brings grit, rhythm, and a driving sound that keeps the crowd moving.

4:30 PM — Marble Heart Band

Right as Derby excitement peaks, Marble Heart takes things to another level with a crowd-ready set built for dancing, singing along, and full festival vibes.

6:30 PM — Bobby Joe Bell Duo

As the evening settles in, Bobby Joe Bell brings the storytelling side of country music back to center stage.

7:00 PM — Selena Brills Band

Closing out the night, Selena Brills delivers the headline performance with a full-band set that promises power, polish, and an unforgettable finale.

This lineup is a perfect showcase of what Arizona country music has become — diverse, authentic, and absolutely thriving.

DERBY DAY DONE RIGHT 🏇👒

Of course, it wouldn’t be Derby Q without the Derby.

Guests will gather around the big screen for a full Kentucky Derby watch party with sound, bringing all the race-day excitement straight into the heart of Mesa.

Leading up to the main event, expect plenty of interactive fun including:

  • 🐴 Stick horse races
  • 🎩 Derby-themed games and activities
  • 👒 Best Hat Contest
  • Best Dressed Contest

This is your moment to show up in full Derby style.

Go classic Southern.
Go bold Western.
Go over-the-top creative.

Whatever your look, bring it.

MORE THAN AN EVENT — A TRUE COMMUNITY EXPERIENCE

For many in the East Valley, this corner of Mesa already holds history.

Now reimagined as Dink & Dine Pickle Park, the venue has become a fresh destination where live entertainment, sports culture, food, and community come together seamlessly.

From the courts to the stage to the bar, every piece of this event has been designed to keep guests engaged, connected, and having an incredible time all day long.

And with easy access from Scottsdale, Tempe, Gilbert, and Phoenix, it’s the perfect central destination for Arizona country fans.

OPPORTUNITIES TO GET INVOLVED

AZDCMA loves events that create opportunities not only for artists, but for businesses and community partners as well.

Vendor and sponsorship opportunities are currently available.

For more information, contact Cliff Willis at cliff@clngo.com.

SEE YOU MAY 2, ARIZONA 🤠🌵

Whether you’re coming for the music, the BBQ, the cornhole championships, the Derby watch party, or simply to celebrate Arizona’s incredible country community, Derby Q Country Fest promises a full day of energy, flavor, and unforgettable moments.

📍 Dink & Dine Pickle Park
📅 Saturday, May 2, 2026

Bring your friends.
Wear your best Derby fit.
Come support Arizona artists.

We’ll see you there.

This one is going to be FUN. 🏇🔥🎶