WQIO Ohio's Super Station
One of Knox County’s signature summer traditions is set to return as the 2026 Mount Vernon Music and Arts Festival takes over historic downtown Friday, Aug. 14 through Sunday, Aug. 16, bringing three days of live entertainment, visual arts, food, shopping and family activities to the heart of the city.
Now in its annual downtown celebration, the festival continues to attract thousands of visitors from across central Ohio with free admission and a diverse lineup of music, artists and community events.
This year’s entertainment schedule features several nationally recognized acts and regional favorites.
The festival kicks off Friday evening with a performance by Phil Dirt and the Dozers, a longtime festival favorite known for classic rock and oldies. They’ll be followed by Forever Seger: The Silver Bullet Experience, a nationally touring tribute to Bob Seger that festival organizers expect to be one of the weekend’s biggest draws.
Saturday night belongs to Preston Cooper, the fast-rising country artist who has gained national attention for his powerful vocals and blend of traditional country and southern rock. Festival organizers announced Cooper earlier this year as the weekend’s featured headliner, calling him one of country music’s most exciting emerging performers.
The weekend wraps up Sunday with performances by The Six One Five Collective, a Nashville-based Americana group known for its award-winning songwriting, followed by The Shuman Band, closing out the festival with classic rock favorites.
Music isn’t the only attraction.
Festival-goers can browse a large selection of artists, craftspeople and artisan vendors, enjoy a variety of food vendors, explore downtown businesses and take part in family-friendly activities throughout the weekend. The festival also includes the popular car and motorcycle cruise-in, flower show, community exhibits and entertainment spread across multiple downtown locations.
Organizers say the event has grown into one of central Ohio’s premier summer festivals, drawing visitors while showcasing Mount Vernon’s vibrant downtown and local businesses.
Admission is free, and additional schedules, maps and event updates are available through the festival’s website and social media pages.
