Full Breakdown
Totally Tubular Festival 2026: A Celebration of '80s Music
4/21/2026, 12:02:15 PM
Overview of the Festival Tour
The Totally Tubular Festival, a multi-act celebration of '80s music, has announced its 2026 summer tour across the United States. The festival will feature a vibrant lineup including Thomas Dolby & The Lost Toy People, A Flock of Seagulls, The Motels, The Producers, Animotion, The Escape Club, and Tommy Tutone. This tour marks the first performance of Thomas Dolby & The Lost Toy People together since 1988 and the first national tour in over 25 years for the original lineup of The Producers.
Tour Dates and Locations
The tour will kick off on July 17, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona, and will conclude on August 16, 2026, in Aurora, Illinois. The festival will make stops in 15 cities, including Denver, San Francisco, Hollywood, Las Vegas, Washington, D.C., Atlantic City, New York City, Louisville, and St. Petersburg. Notably, Bow Wow Wow will replace The Motels for the New Town, North Dakota show on August 1. Tickets for most dates will go on sale on April 24, 2026.
Complete Tour Schedule
- July 17 - Phoenix, AZ @ Celebrity Theatre
- July 19 - Denver, CO @ Mission Ballroom
- July 22 - San Francisco, CA @ The Castro
- July 23 - Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues
- July 24 - Hollywood, CA @ Hollywood Palladium
- July 25 - Las Vegas, NV @ Sahara Las Vegas
- July 26 - Salt Lake City, UT @ Red Butte Garden Amphitheatre
- August 1 - New Town, ND @ 4 Bears Casino (Bow Wow Wow replacing The Motels)
- August 7 - Washington, D.C. @ Warner Theatre
- August 8 - Atlantic City, NJ @ Hard Rock Live @ Etess Arena
- August 9 - New York, NY @ Pier 17
- August 12 - St. Petersburg, FL @ Ferg’s Pavilion
- August 14 - Louisville, KY @ Iroquois Amphitheatre
- August 15 - Huber Heights, OH @ Rose Music Center @ The Heights
- August 16 - Aurora, IL @ RiverEdge Park
Significance of the Festival
The Totally Tubular Festival has quickly established itself as a leading event for '80s music enthusiasts in North America. Jon Pleeter, the festival's creator, stated, “Totally Tubular has clearly emerged in just two years as the market leader for all 80’s tours in North America.” The festival not only appeals to those who experienced the '80s firsthand but also attracts younger audiences discovering the era's music through platforms like MTV.
Official Statements
Thomas Dolby emphasized the cultural significance of the '80s music revival, noting, “Those born after the '80s are discovering the treasure trove of fresh musical ideas that exploded onto the scene in the heyday of MTV.” Jimmy James of Tommy Tutone remarked on the fun and creativity inherent in '80s music, highlighting its catchy melodies and unique production style.
Criticism & Opposition
While the festival celebrates nostalgia, some critics argue that the focus on '80s music may overshadow contemporary artists and genres. However, the festival's organizers maintain that the event serves as a bridge for new generations to appreciate the musical innovations of the past.
Conclusion
The Totally Tubular Festival 2026 promises to be a vibrant celebration of '80s music, bringing together iconic artists and fans across the United States. With its unique lineup and nostalgic appeal, the festival is set to be a significant event in the summer music calendar.
