Loves Park’s Rhythm of the Heart Music Festival returns for its second year on July 27 at City Hall’s festival grounds for a day filled with free live music, entertainment and community spirit.
“Rhythm of the Heart is a community event where everyone can come together and have fun,” says Alyssa Thompson, marketing and communication specialist. “We have different elements of entertainment from a car show to local and regional bands, food trucks and vendors.”
The festival evolved from Loves Park’s 75th birthday bash in 2021. Following the success of that event, the city decided to establish an annual festival.
“The 75-year bash was super successful,” says Thompson. “We had such a great turnout and people loved the live music, so we said, ‘let’s turn this into an annual thing and do it every year.’”
This year’s festival boasts a diverse lineup of performances that begin at 1 p.m. with local favorite Nauti Nauti, followed by Made in America, a Tribute to Toby Keith. LynSkynyrd, back by popular demand, takes the stage at 5:30 p.m., and the evening concludes with Gabriel Sanchez presents The Prince Experience at 8 p.m.
For those not into music, there’s plenty more to enjoy.
“We have a car show from 1 to 5 p.m., bounce houses, a balloon artist and a free K-9 demo by the Loves Park Police Department,” says Thompson. “We also have new entertainment this year, including a performance by local dance team the Phenomenal Dance Company, and a magic show during one of the band breaks.”
The day wraps up with a fireworks display at 9:30 p.m., launched from a hill overlooking the festival grounds.
The grounds feature designated areas for food trucks, vendor tents and kids’ activities and help promote Loves Park. However, it’s the local businesses and sponsors that play a crucial role in making Rhythm of the Heart possible.
“Local businesses sponsor the event, which allows us to offer free admission,” says Thompson. “This year, we have about 30 local businesses participating as vendors. Last year we had 15.”
For a complete schedule of events, visit rhythmoftheheartfest.com.
Family Fun at Rhythm of the Heart
