WILSON STATE PARK — Lake-goers and music lovers will gather on the second weekend in August to enjoy live bluegrass music at the third annual Lovegrass Music Festival at Wilson State Park. 

“We wanted to create an atmosphere for friends and family to gather at Lake Wilson, providing an outlet for jamming and providing entertainment for no cost to those who want to enjoy it,” said festival founder and president Aimee Riegel of Hays.

Riegel and her family spend most weekends camping at Wilson State Park and felt that the park offered the perfect venue for a music festival.

“It was a crazy idea that I came up with in the summer of 2016 while floating in the cove below Lovegrass group camp,” she said. “Each year our festival has gained more interest and we have grown each year.”

With support from Dane G. Hansen Foundation, Russell County Area Community Foundation, the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission, a community grant from the Russell County Convention and Visitors Bureau and Economic Development of Russell, as well as various local business sponsors and individual donors, the Lovegrass Music Festival Association board has secured bands from all over the Midwest. The entertainment is completely free for all to enjoy; however camping and state park permits still apply.

Aside from scheduled performances, other activities will be provided, such as a nature hike, a kayaking excursion, an interactive therapeutic drumming circle, a kids activity area and group jamming. The festival will culminate with a potluck breakfast and gospel jam on Sunday morning.

Follow the Lovegrass Music Festival Facebook page to stay up to date with announcements. More information can also be found on the website  www.lovegrassmuscifestival.com. 

For inquiries about sponsorships or providing entertainment, contact Riegel at admin@lovegrassmusicfestival.com.