Festival History

The Watseka Family Festival was established in 2019 with a mission to provide affordable, family-friendly entertainment for our community. We kicked things off with a FREE Fourth of July Street Dance and Golf Cart Scavenger Hunt in downtown Watseka.

After canceling the 2020 festival due to COVID-19, we returned in 2021 with a weekend full of live music, family activities, and new events.

Each year, the festival has continued to grow, bringing exciting entertainment to Watseka:

• 2021: Roots & Boots featuring Aaron Tippin, Sammy Kershaw, and Collin Raye
• 2022: Tracy Byrd, Hairball, and more
• 2023: Josh Turner, Drew Baldridge, Silver Bullet, and Revel in Red
• 2024: Tracy Lawrence, Feudin' Hillbillies, The Boat Drunks, and Lanterns Road
• 2025: Sara Evans, Neal McCoy, Revel in Red, and Heartless
• 2026: Rodney Atkins, Eddie Montgomery, The Kentucky Headhunters, Confederate Railroad, Faith on Fire, and A Natural High

In 2023, we expanded our community celebrations by introducing Winterfest, held after the Watseka Area Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade on Black Friday. This FREE festive festival give-back evening brings the community together to kick off the holiday season with fun activities and Christmas cheer.

From live entertainment and craft vendors to kids' activities, contests, and seasonal celebrations, we're proud to offer events that bring families and our community together.

We're incredibly thankful for the support of our sponsors, volunteers, local organizations, and community members who help make it all possible.

The festival keeps growing, and the best is yet to come! Stay tuned for announcements about upcoming events and entertainment!