Southern Cook County is hosting its largest gospel music festival yet, as the Village of Lynwood welcomes thousands to its first-ever Gospel Fest this Saturday at Lakeview Park.
Mayor Jada Curry and village trustees are leading the event, which kicks off at 1 p.m. at 19800 S. Lake Lynwood Drive. Organizers expect attendees from across the Chicagoland area.
Headlining the festival is Bishop Larry Trotter and the Sweet Holy Spirit Church Recording Choir, a Chicago gospel staple for more than 30 years. Trotter's 2009 album "I Still Believe" reached No. 8 on Billboard's Top Gospel Albums chart. The lineup also includes Bishop Dan Willis and The Music Sermon, Pastor DeAndre Patterson and Friends, Pastor Ray Bady and Shekinah Glory, Lil Harry and Promise Keepers, and Arthur Sutton and Gift of Praise, among others.
"This festival is about bringing people together," organizers said. "It's about faith, family, community support, economic empowerment, and creating an atmosphere where people can feel joy and hope.
"Beyond the performances, attendees can expect community resource vendors, local Black-owned businesses, and a wide variety of food ranging from BBQ and Jamaican cuisine to Italian ice, pound cakes, and cinnamon rolls. Community partners include the University of Chicago, South Suburban College, Primerica Insurance, and Gift of Hope Organ Donations, among others.
As Lynwood's first Gospel Fest, organizers say the event marks a milestone in the village's commitment to cultural celebration and family-centered programming.
The south suburban village is rolling out the welcome mat for what organizers are calling the largest gospel music festival in southern Cook County.
The south suburban village is rolling out the welcome mat for what organizers are calling the largest gospel music festival in southern Cook County.
