The much-anticipated Harmony Fest returns to Kenosha with a powerful message of unity, peace, and hope for all. This year’s event will be the first of its kind hosted at the historic Washington Park Velodrome, the longest-operating velodrome in the United States. The festival will bring together people from all walks of life to enjoy music, food, and learn about vital community resources. Harmony Fest takes place on September 13 at 5:30 p.m. The Washington Park Velodrome is located at 1821 Washington Road.
Harmony Fest serves as a bridge to connect Kenosha’s diverse communities in a celebration of togetherness, while also supporting an important cause: The Olivia Mackay Memorial Study Abroad Scholarships through the Education Foundation of Kenosha.
A Festival for All – “Pay What and If You Can”
In the spirit of inclusion, Harmony Fest adopts a unique “pay what and if you can” model, allowing everyone to participate, regardless of financial circumstances. This year, various community organizations will be present to inform attendees about essential resources and services that are helping to make Kenosha a happy, healthy place to live. Together, we can bring peace and harmony to our beloved city!
The Olivia Mackay Memorial Study Abroad Scholarships
Harmony Fest is more than just a celebration; it is an opportunity to raise funds for the Olivia Mackay Memorial Study Abroad Scholarships. These scholarships were created in memory of Olivia Mackay, a Kenosha native whose passion for learning, culture, and global exploration inspired her family and community. Olivia tragically lost her life in 2017, but her dream of connecting people through shared international experiences lives on through this program.
The scholarships, administered by the Education Foundation of Kenosha, provide opportunities for local students to study abroad, giving them the chance to experience different cultures, broaden their perspectives, and gain valuable life experiences. Olivia’s vision was to open doors for others to see the world, fostering global citizenship and understanding. The Olivia Mackay Memorial Study Abroad Scholarships reflect her love for travel and education, ensuring that future generations can continue to explore the world and grow as individuals.
The Education Foundation of Kenosha, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, shares Olivia’s mission by enhancing the quality and variety of educational opportunities for all students within the Kenosha Unified School District. These scholarships allow students to participate in life-changing educational experiences that go beyond what traditional classroom learning can offer, encouraging them to pursue academic achievement while gaining an appreciation for global diversity.
There will also be a 50/50 raffle at the event to support the Olivia Mackay Memorial Study Abroad Scholarships.
Headliner Shamarr Allen
Headlining Harmony Fest 2024 is none other than New Orleans-based Shamarr Allen, an internationally renowned trumpeter, vocalist, and bandleader. Allen’s music transcends genres, blending jazz, hip-hop, funk, rock, blues, and country into a sound that is distinctly New Orleans. He has collaborated with musical icons such as Willie Nelson, Patti LaBelle, Lenny Kravitz, and Harry Connick Jr., earning him a global following and a reputation as one of the most electrifying performers on the festival circuit.
But Shamarr Allen’s contributions extend beyond music. He is also the founder of the Trumpet Is My Weapon program, a pioneering initiative that allows at-risk youth in New Orleans to trade guns for trumpets. This impactful program has received widespread support and continues to make a meaningful difference in reducing violence and fostering creativity in young people.
Evening Breeze featuring local Saxophonist Rodgers Randle Jr. will open the show at 6 p.m.
A Historic Venue
Hosting this year’s Harmony Fest at the iconic Washington Park Velodrome adds a special touch of history to the event. As the oldest continuously operating velodrome in the United States, the venue has been a cornerstone of Kenosha’s culture for decades. It has been a gathering place for sports and community events since its opening in 1927. For the first time ever, it will be transformed into a hub of music, unity, and positive community impact. This remarkable location offers a perfect setting for an event aimed at building harmony within our community.
A Call for Community Support
To make Harmony Fest a success, we rely on the support of our community. Donations will help cover event costs and ensure that all proceeds raised go toward the Olivia Mackay Memorial Study Abroad Scholarships. Please consider contributing to help us create an unforgettable event that fosters unity, promotes awareness, and gives back to our youth.
With Shamarr Allen’s incredible talent, the welcoming atmosphere, and the focus on bringing people together, this is an event not to be missed! Together, let’s make Kenosha a more harmonious place for everyone.
Go to kenoshaharmonyfest.com for more information, to get pay-what-you-can tickets, or to otherwise make a donation. Tickets will also be available at the gate.
