Mississippi Earthtones Festival

The 20th Annual free, family-friendly event offers attendees the opportunity to enjoy 30 educational booths offering free kids’ activities, 60 eco-art booths, live music, interactive art exhibits, food, and beverages. Let’s celebrate the Mississippi Riverfront and raise awareness of the environmentally friendly businesses, activities, and organizations in our region.

Dozens of community organizations collaborate to produce this premier event, which fulfills a request from the State of Illinois to organize activities promoting education, recreation, and conservation of our waterways on “It’s Our River Day,” the third Saturday in September. Free live music all day! Performers include The Matt Taul Band (Homegrown Americana), Jason “”Gordo”” Gordon, Master Blaster Stevie Wonder Tribute led by Steve Ewing of The Urge, and Jake’s Leg.

Participants can immerse themselves in large, interactive art installations curated by Kooliverse and the Riverbend Yarn Bombers, designed to enhance the festival grounds with the focus on “Rooted in Rhythm””. The Zen Zone tent offers free yoga and meditation classes for those seeking relaxation, and you can engage in meaningful conversations to enhance your connection with all life. Make sure to celebrate the Confluence Conservation Awards on stage at 3:30 pm, where three awardees will be highlighted. The Jacoby Arts Center Playground will come alive with live performances, interactive art activities, and entertainment for all ages, including shows by the Creative Dance Studio, lively ukulele performances, an improv show, live painting demonstrations, and clay-throwing sessions. Visitors can create their own masterpieces and unwind beneath the trees on cozy blankets. Plenty of local food and drink available all day!