Common Ground Music Festival facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Common Ground Music Festival |
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| Genre | Rock, World, Electronic, Comedy, Country, Reggae, Folk, Hip Hop, Dance, Pop |
| Dates | Early-Mid July |
| Location(s) | Lansing, Michigan |
| Years active | 2000–19, 2021– |
The Common Ground Music Festival is a big music event. It happens every year in downtown Lansing, Michigan. This festival lasts for about a week in July. It started in the year 2000. Over 50,000 people visit it each year. The festival takes place at the Louis Adado Riverfront Park. This park is right next to the Grand River.
The festival was created by Center Park Productions and Meridian Entertainment Group. It features many different artists. You can hear rock, pop, country, hip hop, and R&B music. Both famous national artists and local talents perform here.
About 10 people work all year to plan this festival. During the event week, nearly 200 volunteers help out. They also hire temporary workers. These workers help build the stages and other temporary structures.
The next Common Ground Music Festival is planned for July 9–10, 2021.
Festival History
The Common Ground Music Festival began in 2000. It was set up as a non-profit organization. This means it's not trying to make money for owners. Instead, it uses its earnings to support its goals. The organization is called Center Park Productions. It was formed by a partnership. This partnership was between the Lansing Entertainment & Public Facilities Authority (LEPFA) and Meridian Entertainment Group (MEG). MEG was the original creator of the festival idea.
The festival's biggest crowd was in 2003. About 87,000 people attended that week. In more recent years, the crowds have been smaller. They usually attract between 50,000 and 60,000 people. The festival did not happen in 2020. This was because of the COVID-19 pandemic. So, the 21st festival was moved to 2021.
Music and Performers
The festival offers many kinds of music. You can hear pop, classic rock, and modern rock. There's also R&B, rap, country, and even blues. Some years, comedians have also performed. Usually, each day of the festival focuses on a different type of music. This way, there's something for everyone!
Local Impact
The festival helps the local economy a lot. Since it started, it has brought in over $50 million. This money helps businesses in the area. The festival has also given back to the community. It has raised and given more than $400,000. This money goes to schools, charities, and other local groups.
Fun Activities
Besides the music, the festival has other fun things to do. One activity is Ultimate Painting. This is a live painting competition. There's also The Color Run, a fun running event. You can even try a zip-line! This zip-line goes across the Grand River right on the festival grounds. It's a great way to see the festival from above.
