You’ve seen him scream about "golden nuggets" and "poo-poo heads" on Bravo for a decade, but honestly, the James Kennedy of 2026 isn't just a reality TV caricature anymore. He’s actually morphed into one of the most bankable club DJs in the country. If you’re looking for James Kennedy upcoming events, you’re probably realizing that catching a set from the self-proclaimed "White Kanye" is getting a lot harder—and more expensive—than it used to be.
The days of James spinning for free at SUR while Lisa Vanderpump watches from the bar are mostly over. He’s moved on to massive Vegas residencies and headline club tours that span the entire U.S. and Canada. Here’s the real deal on where he’s playing, what the vibe is actually like, and why you shouldn't expect to see him back on Vanderpump Rules anytime soon.
The 2026 Tour Schedule: Where He’s Headed Next
James has basically been living out of a suitcase lately. His 2026 schedule is a mix of high-end club dates and the occasional festival appearance. Unlike some "celebrity DJs" who just press play on a pre-recorded mix, Kennedy actually puts in the work, which is why his booking fee has skyrocketed.
If you’re trying to catch him, keep your eyes on these confirmed spots:
- Denver, CO: He’s hitting The Church Nightclub on January 30, 2026. This is a classic venue for him—dark, loud, and high energy.
- Las Vegas, NV: This is his home base. While he frequently plays LIV Las Vegas, he also pops up at smaller spots like the JaRose Hookah Lounge (catch him there May 9, 2026, if you want a more "underground" feel).
- The Festival Circuit: Keep an eye on the major lineups like Ultra Music Festival and Coachella. While he’s not always on the main stage, he’s become a staple for the afternoon dance tents where the Bravo fans and house-heads collide.
It’s worth noting that his sets usually start way later than the ticket says. If the doors open at 9:00 PM, James usually won't touch the decks until midnight or later. Plan your pre-game accordingly.
Why "See You Next Tuesday" Is Basically Dead
Look, I get it. We all want to go to SUR on a Tuesday night, order a goat cheese ball, and watch James spiral while spinning "Topman." But the reality is that See You Next Tuesday has become a rare relic.
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Since his residency at LIV took off and his profile grew post-Scandoval, James has outgrown the tiny DJ booth at SUR. Most insiders agree he only does these events now if the Bravo cameras are rolling or if it's a very special one-off occasion. Honestly, he’s too big for the room now. The fire marshal would have a heart attack with the number of people trying to squeeze in there just to see if Ariana Madix shows up in the DJ booth.
What’s the Vibe? (Expect Champagne and High Energy)
If you haven't been to a James Kennedy set, it’s a weird, beautiful hybrid. Half the crowd is there for the tech-house beats, and the other half is there to see a Bravolebrity.
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He leans heavily into his own discography now. You’ll definitely hear his new tech-house tracks, like the recent drop "Try Again" on Hexagon Records. But he’s smart. He knows why people are there. He usually weaves in remixes of the VPR theme song or shouts out his signature catchphrases over the mic.
Pro tip: If you're at the front, prepare to get wet. James is notorious for the "champagne shower" move. If you’re wearing suede or something you don’t want smelling like cheap bubbly for a week, stay back by the bar.
The Vanderpump Rules Reboot: Is James Out?
This is the big question everyone is asking at his shows lately. As of late 2025 and heading into 2026, Vanderpump Rules has officially shifted gears. Bravo made the massive call to reboot the show with a brand-new cast for Season 12.
James, along with Lala Kent, Scheana Shay, and the rest of the OGs, were essentially "graduated" from the show. While Lisa Vanderpump remains the glue at SUR, James has called his time on the show a "wild ride" and seems at peace with the exit. This actually works in favor of his music career. He doesn't have to worry about a "bad edit" ruining a sponsorship deal, and he can focus entirely on his residency schedule.
Actionable Advice for Fans
If you’re serious about hitting one of the James Kennedy upcoming events, don't wait until the last minute. Tickets for his club appearances usually start around $70 but jump to over $150 once the "early bird" slots sell out.
- Check Discotech and Bandsintown: These are usually more accurate for his club dates than the official venue websites, which sometimes lag.
- Vegas is your best bet: If you’re traveling, just go to Vegas. He’s there almost every other weekend during the summer months.
- Earplugs are non-negotiable: Seriously. Fans have complained that his sets are some of the loudest in the industry. Don't ruin your hearing for a remix of "Good as Gold."
- Dress the part: Most of the venues he plays have strict dress codes. No flip-flops, no jerseys. Think "West Hollywood chic" even if you're in the middle of Denver.
James has successfully made the jump from reality TV villain to legitimate musical entertainer. Whether you love him or hate him, the energy at his shows is undeniable. Just don't ask him where Jax Taylor is—he's busy playing his own tracks now.