LIVE ON THE VINE 2026 ARTIST APPLICATION

Application Fee: $50

Ready to take the stage?

Apply today to compete in Live on the Vine 2026, one of the signature events of the 18th & Vine Arts Festival and an opportunity for emerging artists to showcase their talent before a live audience, industry professionals, and festival attendees.

Live on the Vine highlights some of Kansas City's most talented performers across genres including R&B, hip-hop, soul, gospel, jazz, alternative, acoustic music, poetry, and spoken word.

Only twelve (12) artists will be selected to advance to the final competition.

GRAND PRIZE PACKAGE

The Live on the Vine Champion will receive:

💰 $1,000 Cash Prize

🎚️ Professional Studio Time

📸 Professional Photo Shoot

🎤 Main Stage Performance Opportunity

⭐ VIP Artist Exposure Across Festival Marketing & Media Platforms

WHO CAN APPLY?

Applications are open to:

• Vocalists

• Singers

• Bands

• Musicians

• R&B Artists

• Soul Artists

• Hip-Hop Artists

• Gospel Artists

• Jazz Artists

• Alternative Artists

• Acoustic Artists

• Poets

• Spoken Word Artists

• Singer-Songwriters

COMPETITION FORMAT

Four judges will each select three artists.

12 finalists will advance to compete live during the 2026 18th & Vine Arts Festival.

One artist will be crowned the 2026 Live on the Vine Champion.

EVENT DETAILS

📅 Saturday, September 26, 2026

📍 Historic 18th & Vine Jazz District

Kansas City, Missouri

Part of the 2026 18th & Vine Arts Festival

September 25–27, 2026

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Applicants must submit:

• Completed Artist Application

• Artist Biography

• Performance Sample (Video or Audio)

• Social Media Links

• Artist Photo

• $50 Application Fee

Applications will be reviewed by the official Live on the Vine judging panel.

Only 12 artists will advance to the live competition.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

The $50 application fee is non-refundable and covers application review and consideration for participation in Live on the Vine 2026.

Submission of an application does not guarantee selection.

Selected artists will be contacted with competition details, performance schedules, promotional opportunities, and event information.

THE STAGE IS YOURS.

Apply today for your chance to compete for $1,000 and perform at one of Kansas City's premier arts and culture festivals.