Haynes-Apperson Festival celebrates 50 years with star-studded music lineup, community traditions

The beloved Haynes-Apperson Festival returns to Foster Park June 18–20, 2026, marking its 50th Anniversary with a vibrant weekend of live music, family fun, and community celebration—while also honoring the 250th anniversary of the birth of our great Country.

This year’s festival will feature an unforgettable concert series in Foster Park, kicking off Thursday’s opening night with chart-topping country duo LoCash Cowboys, followed by classic rock legends Foghat and Asia on Friday, and Grammy-winning funk icons Kool & the Gang as our headliners on Saturday night. The weekend will culminate in a spectacular fireworks show Saturday night in Foster Park immediately following Kool & the Gang’s performance.

Festival Chairman Paul Wyman shared his excitement about this milestone year:

“Celebrating 50 years of the Haynes-Apperson Festival is truly special for our community. Many people have volunteered their time over the years to help us celebrate our communities automotive heritage and all that is great about Kokomo and Howard County! 50 years of people giving back, 50 years of our community celebrating, 50 years of traditions kept.”

Wyman added, “This year’s musical lineup is one of the best we’ve ever assembled—there’s something for everyone, from country to classic rock to funk. It’s the perfect way to honor our past while creating new memories together.”

Wyman also reflected on the broader significance of this year’s celebration:

“As we mark not only our festival’s 50th anniversary but also 250 years since the founding of our country, we get to come together, celebrate our heritage, and look ahead with pride. The festival has always been about community, and this year that spirit shines brighter than ever.”

“We have so much to celebrate as a community. What more can we ask for than a live performance of one of the greatest hits ever by Kool and the Gang – CELEBRATION!”, Wyman added.

This year in honor of the 50^th Anniversary, the Haynes Apperson Pageant will return.  Led by former Mrs. Indiana United State and Current Mrs. Kokomo Chanteal VanCamp. (Separate press release to follow later this week) “We are so thankful Chanteal and her team have stepped up to bring back a great part of the last 50 years”, said Wyman. 

Wyman also noted this year our community will also be celebrating Juneteenth on Saturday June 20^th downtown on the Square.  “We are honored to partner with the Juneteenth Festival and truly have an outstanding day of Celebration in Kokomo! So much to celebrate and be thankful for!”

“The Juneteenth Jubilee is all about celebrating together as one. Our collaboration with the Haynes Apperson Festival serves as an opportunity to connect with numerous members of our community in joyous celebration.  We look forward to welcoming first-time attendees and sharing in the celebration of Freedom.”, said David Steele. 

Festival Highlights include:

• Live Music in Foster Park featuring nationally recognized acts all weekend
• Carnival Rides & Food Vendors offering fun and flavors for all ages
• Cruise-In Events on Thursday and Friday
• Car Show on Saturday all day
• Parade on Saturday, June 20 at 2:00 PM – Melissa Reed, Director
• Sports Festival running throughout the week.  Dana Neer, Director
• Partnership with Juneteenth Celebration on Saturday, celebrating culture, history, and unity.
• Huge Fireworks Finale Saturday night after Kool & The Gang
• Miss Haynes Apperson Pageant – Chanteal VanCamp, Director

With a rich legacy rooted in celebrating Kokomo’s automotive heritage and community spirit, the Haynes-Apperson Festival continues to be one of Indiana’s premier summer traditions.

For a full schedule and additional details, visit haynesappersonfestival.org. Also check out our Facebook page – Haynes Apperson Festival, Kokomo, Howard County Indiana for updates.