Englewood and Auburn Gresham will welcome residents and visitors to two free music festivals this Saturday, showcasing local talent, gospel performances, and family‑friendly attractions.
Englewood Music Festival – A Celebration of Soul and Community
From noon to 7 p.m., the Englewood Music Festival returns to 6400 S. Halsted St. for its sixth annual edition. Chicago‑born R&B singer Syleena Johnson, Grammy‑nominated for her soulful work, will headline the event. Johnson said in a video posted to the festival’s Instagram that she aims to bring “the soul and blues back home” for the neighborhood.
Supporting acts include R&B and soul artists King George and Joe Global, as well as gospel selections from Pastor Derail Smith & The Cosmopolitan Warriors. The festival will also honor judge and television personality Greg Mathis as a special guest.
The Englewood Arts Collective returns with pop‑up art activations, featuring a skateboard design lab led by West Englewood native Nakiya’h Longstreet. Attendees can create prints, watch a mural being painted, and ride a trolley to Englewood’s sculpture garden.
Founder Ald. Stephanie Coleman (16th Ward) encourages guests to wear cowboy boots and hats for a “little Western flavor,” inviting a two‑step dance to the blend of Southern soul and R&B hits. Registration for the free event is available online.
79th Street Renaissance Festival Brings 21 Years of Fun to Auburn Gresham
Just minutes away, the 79th Street Renaissance Festival marks its 21st annual celebration at the intersection of 79th Street and Racine Avenue, running from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. The all‑ages, free event is hosted by the Greater Auburn‑Gresham Development Corporation.
Highlights include the festival’s iconic 50‑foot ferris wheel, $1 carnival rides for children, and a variety of activities for kids, teens, and seniors. R&B group 112, known for early‑2000s hits such as “Peaches & Cream” and “Dance With Me,” will headline the stage. Grammy‑winning gospel and R&B artists Jonathan McReynolds and Lalah Hathaway will also perform.
Local artist Kiéla Adira, who created a jingle celebrating the festival’s more‑than‑20‑year history, will appear on stage. The festival’s free admission and diverse programming aim to strengthen community bonds across generations.
Why These Festivals Matter
Both festivals reflect the vibrant cultural life of Chicago’s South Side, offering safe, family‑oriented entertainment without cost to attendees. By highlighting local musicians, artists, and entrepreneurs, the events support the neighborhood economy and provide a positive outlet for community engagement.
Residents are encouraged to attend, enjoy the music, explore the art installations, and take advantage of the free rides and activities. For more information and to register for the Englewood Music Festival, visit the festival’s website.
Original reporting: Block Club Chicago — read the source article.
