Don't miss the Soul Fest Friday and Saturday night!

The evening of August 12^th features Gospel choirs and entertainment beginning at 5:30 p.m.   The City of Refuge Choir , Gospel Unity Choir from Riverside Community Church , Black Heritage Ensemble Singers, and Integrity Singers will kick-off the Gospel extravaganza.  They will be followed by the Central Illinois Mass Choir, a group of talented singers from several area churches.  Headlining the evening's entertainment is the world famous Harlem Gospel Choir at 8:45 p.m., a group of singers from Black churches in Harlem , who create a better understanding of the African-American culture and the inspirational music called Gospel as it relates to the Black church. The Choir was founded in 1986 by Allen Bailey, who got the idea for the Choir while attending a celebration in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the renowned Cotton Club in Harlem .  Since then, the group has performed for Nelson Mandela and Pope John Paul II, and with U2, Bono, Lyle Lovett, The Chieftans and Diana Ross.

Saturday evening, August 13
Gates open at 5:00 p.m.

Saturday, August 13th features an evening of R & B music for attendees.  Families will enjoy a step show, delicious food and beverages, specialty vendors, art displays, and a great musical lineup.  The evening's entertainment includes local bands, a step show at 7:45 p.m., and musical guests the Stylistics at 10:00 p.m.

The Stylistics came into prominence in the 1970's with their own distinct R & B sound that utilized the broad falsetto of lead vocalist Russell Thomplins, Jr.  The group evolved into one of the best-selling soul groups ever, as the Philadelphia-based quartet recorded a  remarkable 12 straight top-ten hits between 1971 and 1974.  Their Grammy-nominated hit "You Make Me  Feel Brand New" is a favorite among audiences.