Haynes Apperson Festival Drops Star-Studded 50th Anniversary Concert Lineup
Kokomo’s biggest summer tradition is hitting a major milestone and the 2026 Haynes Apperson Festival is pulling out all the stops to celebrate
According to a press release sent to The Kokomo Post today April 29 the festival will return to Foster Park June 18 through 20 marking its 50th anniversary with a full weekend of live music family fun and community celebration
And this year’s concert lineup is one of the biggest in festival history led by a hometown moment that’s sure to be unforgettable
🎤 LOCASH headlines opening night with a hometown spotlight
Thursday night belongs to LOCASH and for Kokomo this is more than just a concert it is a homecoming
The country duo made up of lead singers Chris Lucas and Preston Brust has built a national following with hits like “I Love This Life” “One Big Country Song” and “Feels Like a Party” bringing an upbeat high energy sound that has made them a staple on country radio
But what makes this performance truly special is Preston Brust’s roots right here in Kokomo Indiana
Born and raised in Kokomo, Brust returns to the Haynes Apperson Festival stage in front of a hometown crowd as part of a successful duo in country music today making Thursday night one of the most meaningful and can’t miss moments of the entire weekend
Festival Chairman Paul Wyman highlighted just how special this year’s entertainment lineup is in the press release saying
“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”
🎸 Friday brings classic rock favorites
Friday night shifts gears into classic rock with a double feature of legendary acts
Foghat will take the stage bringing decades of blues infused rock with signature songs like “Slow Ride” “Fool for the City” and “I Just Want to Make Love to You” known for their powerful live performances and timeless sound
They will be joined by Asia featuring John Payne continuing the band’s legacy of arena rock hits Fans will recognize favorites like “Heat of the Moment” and “Only Time Will Tell” as the group delivers a set packed with nostalgia and musicianship
🎉 Saturday ends with a celebration
Saturday night will close out the festival with Grammy winning icons Kool and the Gang
With a catalog full of instantly recognizable hits including “Celebration” “Ladies’ Night” “Get Down On It” and “Jungle Boogie” the group is known for turning every performance into a party
Their set will lead directly into a fireworks finale in Foster Park capping off the 50th anniversary celebration in a big way
🎡 A full weekend of festival traditions
Beyond the concert stage the Haynes Apperson Festival continues to deliver the traditions Kokomo has come to love for the past 50 years
Festivalgoers can enjoy carnival rides food vendors cruise in events a car show the annual parade on Saturday at 2 pm and a weeklong sports festival
This year will also mark the return of the Haynes Apperson Pageant led by Chanteal VanCamp bringing back a cherished part of the festival’s history
In addition the festival is partnering with Kokomo’s Juneteenth celebration taking place downtown on Saturday June 20 creating a day centered on culture community and unity
As Wyman shared in the release this milestone year is about more than just entertainment
“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”
📅 Save the date
The Haynes Apperson Festival takes place June 18 through 20 2026 in Foster Park
For more information and a full schedule visit haynesappersonfestival.org or follow the Haynes Apperson Festival on Facebook
Between a hometown headliner legendary bands and a golden anniversary celebration this year’s festival is shaping up to be one Kokomo will not forget
