As Mayor of the City of Kankakee, it is my pleasure to welcome you to the Merchant Street MusicFest.
Kankakee is a City on the rise.
I encourage everyone to visit Kankakee to experience all of the things that make Kankakee one of the most rapidly growing, business-friendly, quality-of-life focused cities in Illinois.
Beneath a skyline that has been redeveloped over the past two years, our dynamic and bustling downtown is filled with restaurants, exciting nightlife, a fabulous farmers’ market, year-round activities, abundant parks, arts and culture. Our vibrant and diverse culture is evident in the many distinctive neighborhoods that dot our city. After this festival, I invite you to stroll through our beautiful districts, visit the Kankakee County Museum, and gaze out over the Kankakee River from one of our parks.
I am certain that after such desperate times come the most hopeful times. The Merchant Street MusicFest will take place at the Harold & Jean Miner Festival Square this July 25 and 26. Attendees will have the singular opportunity to experience a wide variety of musical genres: soul, rock, gospel, bluegrass, and blues. Additionally, there will be a variety of food and art vendors and activities for children. Thanks to all our volunteers and sponsors, a generation of ordinary people who rise to the occasion and commit extraordinary and selfless acts to build our community in the aftermath of a disastrous pandemic. Without them this festival would not be possible.
I will be honored if you would join us during Merchant Street MusicFest on July 25 and 26. I look forward to sharing this joyous occasion with you,
Chris W. Curtis Mayor, City of Kankakee
SAFETY
Welcome back to the Merchant Street MusicFest!
The Kankakee Police Department welcomes everyone back to our annual Merchant Street MusicFest in Downtown Kankakee!
The Merchant Street MusicFest is a wonderful time to get acquainted with our downtown atmosphere and get a taste of good food and enjoy a variety of great music.
Obviously, everyone’s personal safety is very important to the Kankakee Police Department. We will be beefing up patrols and have many uniformed and plain clothes officers monitoring this event to ensure everyone has a safe and wonderful experience. Please assist the Police Department by drinking responsibly, locking your car doors and being kind and courteous to everyone attending. Please do not hesitate to notify the Kankakee Police Department if you see anything suspicious. If you see something say something!
Our goal is to make sure everyone has a safe and wonderful experience at this year’s MusicFest.
Hope to see you all there.
Chris Kidwell Chief of Police, Kankakee Police Department
THANK YOU TO ALL OUR SPONSORS
TITLE SPONSORS - $10,000+
City of Kankakee
Downtown Kankakee
Gotion Illinois
Kankakee Public Library
HYDRATION STATION
SPONSOR - $5,500
Gardent Management Solutions
HILL STAGE SPONSORS -
$4,000-6,000
Milner Media Partners: WVLI 92.7, WFAV 95.1, WIVR 101.7
Our Home
VOLUNTEER SPONSOR$4,000
Riverside Healthcare
PLATFORM STAGE
SPONSORS - $3,000
CommonWealth Credit Union
The STARadio family of stations: AM 1320/FM 101.3 WKAN, X-Country 106.5 + 105.5 The Ticket WGFA Radio
BAND UNDERWRITERS -
$1,500
AHF Products
Deck + Baron, Attorneys at Law
First Trust Bank of Illinois
Glade Plumbing + Piping, Co.
Heritage Development + Construction Co. Inc.
Midland States Bank
Peoples Bank of Kankakee County
Piggush Engineering
Renville Gaming, LLC
Spesia + Taylor
St. Mary’s Hospital
BEER TENT SPONSORS -
$1,000-$4,000
A Plus Home Improvements by Tousignant, Inc.
Blue Ribbon Products, Co.
Brickstone Brewery
Edward Jones Financial Advisors
David Robinson, Adam Elroy + Ryan Weimer
GOOD VIBES - $500
Aqua Illinois
Barmann, Bohlen, + Scott P.C.
Attorneys at Law
ComEd
Converging Networks Group, Inc.
Main Street Dentistry
GJM Advisory
Representative Jackie Haas
Holohan Heating + Sheet Metal
Kankakee Community College
Kankakee Valley Construction Co., Inc.
Sharp Cuts Lawn Care
Spiros Law
Tatro Painting + Decorating, LLC
Two Rivers Area Credit Union
V3 Companies
Visit Kankakee County
ROADIES - $250
Abcor Home Health, Inc.
Art’s Landscaping
Borschnack, Pelletier, + Co.
Dustin Kooy Village Realty
Dr. Steven + Nina Epstein
Andy Forquer
Kay Green
Groskreutz, Abraham, Eshleman, + Gerretse, LLC
No Dogs Sports Bar
Rubber Rose Books + Print
TESKA Associates
GROUPIES - $50
Neeley Regas, P.C. Inc.
Stupid Sexy Flanders
TRADE SPONSORS
Alexander Equipment Rental
Berkot’s
Bios Bros
Cellar Graphics
Central Illinois Transportations, Inc.
Currents of Kankakee County
The Daily Journal
Environmental Services Utility
Jim’s Freestyle Hair Salon
Kankakee County Fairgrounds
Kankakee Economic + Community
Development Agency
Kankakee Fire Department
Kankakee Knights of Columbus #745
Kankakee Nursery Co.
Kankakee Police Department
Kankakee Public Works
Kankakee Valley Park District
King Music
MJP Development
Pepsi Beverages Co.
Ravenspring Media
Republic Services
Superior Embroidery
ENTRY There are two gates where you can enter The Harold + Jean Miner Festival Square grounds. One gate is located at the corner of Schuyler Avenue and Merchant Street while the other gate is located off of Station Street and East Avenue. Friday admission is $10 and Saturday is $15, children 12 and under are free throughout the whole fest. On Saturday, July 26 from 2pm-5pm, the Kid Zone is free and special pricing for select food vendors is available. Presale tickets are available at the Kankakee Public Library through Thursday, July 24 at 7pm where a weekend pass can be purchased for $20. Weekend passes are only available prior to the fest.
PARKING Parking will be limited. Limited handicapped parking is available off Station Street near NAPA Auto Parts. MSMF encourages green transportation. Festivalgoers are encouraged to carpool, use public transportation, bike, skateboard, scooter, or walk. Bike racks are available along Schyler Ave; bring your own lock.
ATM There will be two ATMs at MSMF — one at each drink ticket booth for your convenience.
SECURITY
We want you to be safe while enjoying the festival. Security will be
conducting bag checks at the gates. In addition, there is a Mobile Safety Unit, provided by the Kankakee Police Department and an ambulance provided by the Kankakee Fire Dept. for the entirety of the festival. In case of any medical need or emergency, please immediately go to the Mobile Safety Unit, ambulance, police officer, Info Tent, or MSMF crew member for assistance.
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES
Alcoholic beverages will be served only to those with a government-issued ID. You must show your ID to a staff member at the drink ticket locations to receive your 21+ wristband.
WEATHER
The festival will take place regardless of weather conditions. In the case of lightning, bands will not perform until given an all-clear. Festivalgoers are encouraged to take precautions to avoid overheating (i.e., wear light, loose-fitting clothes; drink plenty of water; seek shade when possible).
WHAT YOU CANNOT BRING Outside
food or beverages, coolers, glass containers, unauthorized solicitations, firearms, or anything illegal are not allowed on the grounds.
MERCHANT STREET MUSICFEST
MERCHANT STREET STAGE
FRIDAY, JULY 25
HILL STAGE
JULY 25
DJ
MERCHANT STREET MUSICFEST 2025 BAND BIOS
10 Grand Band
Kankakee, IL
R&B, hip-hop, rock, pop
10 Grand Band is a high-energy band from Kankakee that plays a variety of genres ranging from folk, pop, rock, jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and gospel. It started with leader Melvin Deal calling up his good friend Devron Ivy and asking, “Hey, you want to start this band with me?” Today, that band is 11 members strong. They love what they do and how they make music feel to others. ONE BAND ONE SOUND!
Adrian + Meredith
Nashville, TN
Folk, Americana
This project brings together two performers who grew up on opposite ends of the musical spectrum. Adrian was raised on rock, punk, and Motown, while Meredith cut her teeth in the oldtime music scene. Those two approaches come together in a way that honors the traditions of folk and Americana music while pushing beyond those genres’ boundaries. Their music puts a unique spin on the human story with a nod to punk, the heart of folk, flavor of polka, and bounce of swing.
All American Throwbacks
Chicago, IL
Pop punk and emo throwback hits
All American Throwbacks will be performing your favorite pop punk and emo throwback hits from all the scene bands, including Fall Out Boy, Blink-182, Good Charlotte, My Chemical Romance, and many more! If it’s a song you cried to in middle school, they probably play it. This band is more than just a showit’s a full-on party! With complete crowd interaction & non-stop bangers, they’ll have you singing along, dancing, and partying all night long.
DJ Broke Dusty
Chicago, IL
DJ
Broke Dusty is a multi-talented DJ with myriad projects, including podcast cocreator, music producer, creative writer, and more. MSMF is thrilled to welcome him to the Merchant Street Stage to keep the vibe going between sets on Saturday, July 26.
Carrying Torches
Kankakee, IL
Rock
Carrying Torches is an emotional rock band delivering powerful, anthemic soundscapes paired with raw, heartfelt storytelling. The band thrives on crafting music that resonates deeply with their listeners. Formed in the heart of Illinois, Carrying Torches combines the grit of indie rock with the melodic layers of synth-driven sound. Known for their dynamic live performances, Carrying Torches captivates audiences with a unique mix of emotional intimacy and commanding stage presence.
Chicos
Kankakee, IL
Hip-hop alternative Chicos is a hip-hop alternative duo based in Kankakee. The band likes to experiment with an underground hiphop style combined with more indie modern sounds. They have performed at the historic Kankakee Depot, Majestic Theater, and Estival Festival. Their first album Chico, dropped in 2022, and their sophomore album, Madman, is currently in the works. They have also developed and performed with the collective Third Eye. Chicos are stoked to bring their unique style to MSMF this year.
Deconstructing Jim
Kankakee, IL
Rock
Deconstructing Jim emerged as a duo from the Joliet and Kankakee bar scenes in 2002 before forming into a four-piece rock band. Matt Yeager and Jeff Julian brought dueling vocals from the gut and built their reputation the old-school way: show by show and with burned CDs by the fistful. Originally released on Half Empty Records, The Further, The Better showcases four musicians who play every show with grit and emotion. After twenty years, it’s still DIY, and it’s still Deconstructing Jim.
Manteno, IL
DJ
Jason Neuman is no stranger to the Merchant Street MusicFest. He makes sure to keep the crowd rocking between band performances. He returns this year to the Merchant Street Stage on Friday, July 25, where he’ll keep the music and good vibes going between sets.
DJ Jason Neuman
MERCHANT STREET MUSICFEST 2025 BAND BIOS
Dottie Kelly
West Palm Beach, FL
Blues
Dottie Kelly is a powerhouse blues singer. Her soulful voice and natural stage presence are a force to be reckoned with. Born in West Palm Beach, FL, Dottie developed her talent while singing in a Baptist church. She later followed her Aunt Betty Padgett to her various shows, eventually singing backup. Since then, Dottie has traveled to many states and opened for myriad artists from all over the world. Those experiences, mixed with pure raw talent, have made her a bona fide soul singer.
Latin Blues
Ivan Singh is a Latino blues guitarist and singer from Argentina who recently moved to Chicago, to great acceptance in the blues community and a growing fan base of all ages and ethnicities. A rising blues sensation in Chicago with his unique style “LatinBlues” developed from his Spanglish lyrics, homemade 4-string guitar “Lata de Batata”, and 6-piece band that includes a horn section. Singh has toured worldwide and performed alongside blues greats including Buddy Guy, Taj Mahal, and Kingfish Ingram.
Michigan Blues
JR Clark is a recording artist and songwriter with several compositions of original material to his name. JR fronts the JR Clark Band on vocals and guitar and melds a host of influences, including Michael Burks, Luther Allison, Freddy King, and Larry McCray. JR credits his showmanship and slide guitar style to his mentor, international touring artist Lil’ Ed Williams of Lil’ Ed and the Blues Imperials, whom he has toured with over the years.
Junebug
Kankakee, IL
Indie pop rock
Junebug is an indie/pop/rock band from Kankakee started in 2024 by Lucy LeRoy, lead singer, guitarist, and songwriter. She’s joined by her brother James on drums and his wife Jessi on bass, turning her songs into a full-band sound. They’ve put out a five-song demo called Caught Up. Junebug is currently writing and recording new music, with more releases on the way!
Kara Grainger Nashville, TN Blues
Australian-born blues singer/guitarist
Kara Grainger may draw initial comparisons to Bonnie Raitt—both play slide guitar and sing soulfully—but she bears her own distinctive style, one that evenly balances the blues with soul and roots rock. With sultry, mesmerizing vocals, engaging songwriting talent, and fiery slide guitar work, Kara Grainger boasts an impressive set of skills. Full of soulful swagger and elegant musicianship, her songs bring a distinctly unique and modern take to blues, roots, and soul music.
Katzpa Jammas
Kankakee, IL
Jazz Alternative Rock
Katzpa Jammas is a homegrown, jazzinfluenced alternative rock band based out of Kankakee. They proudly do what they do for the love of the game.
King Chameleon Chicago, IL
Americana-style originals and covers King Chameleon is an original and cover band from the Chicago area consisting of several well-seasoned musicians. They play a blend of different genres based around Americana-style rock, blues, and country.
Los Tamales Jazz Chicago, IL
Jazz Funk Latin
Los Tamales Jazz was founded in 2022 from the roots of the Moraine Valley Community College Jazz Combo. Los Tamales highlights the most danceable aspects of jazz music with a fierce rhythm section, a powerful and precise horn section, and a multi-talented vocalist. Their greatest strength is the diversity of their sound. The band is fluent in many variants and derivatives of jazz from around the world. The band has specialized set lists for New Orleans jazz, Latin jazz, Japanese jazz, funk, and more.
Ivan Singh Trio Chicago, IL
JR Clark Band
MERCHANT STREET MUSICFEST 2025 BAND BIOS
LowDown Brass Band
Chicago, IL
Multi-genre horn ensemble
Embodying the vibrant Chicago music culture, LowDown Brass Band is a oneof-a-kind horn ensemble weaving the rhythm of the streets with conscious hip hop, reggae, and soul. Rigorously touring, LowDown has performed on the most unique stages, from the Montreal Jazz Fest to the Cotai Jazz Fest. Leaning on their talent and unconventional style, LowDown Brass Band continues to carve out a path, defying convention and charting their own course in the everevolving landscape of music.
Kankakee, IL
Instrumentalist
Luis Luchessi is a multi-instrumental musician originally from La Plata, Argentina. Today, he calls Kankakee home. You may have caught one of his recent performances at the Strawberry Jazz Festival or the Momence Farmer’s Market. Luis’s ideal is to erase the wall between styles and flow with the music.
Master James + the Show Stoppahs
Kankakee County, IL
Blues
Hailing from right here in Kankakee County, Master James + the Show Stoppahs bring a live blues band experience to the stage with a full sound. They are guaranteed to give you the best of blues, funk, and jazz, with an R&B twist.
Blues
Melody Angel, the powerhouse of “electric church music,” ignites stages worldwide with her unique blend of soulful vocals and electrifying guitar skills. Her self-titled album and accompanying global tour have captivated audiences across numerous cities throughout the US. Journalists universally praise her stage presence and musical prowess, drawing comparisons to icons like Jimi Hendrix, Prince, and Sister Rosetta Tharpe. Defying industry norms, Melody embodies a generational talent committed to realizing her rock and roll dreams despite the odds.
N-Deep Kankakee County, IL
R&B
A big band with a smooth sound, featuring songs meant to touch the audience as they play what is ultimately the soundtrack to our lives. Since 2003, N-Deep has been a part of a collaboration of music lovers who love to perform. Opening up for bands like Tone Toni Tony, Rob Bass, and many more, they weave tight grooves and smooth tones to produce musical love. Their Motto is “Stay N-Deep into life, N-Deep into love, and N-Deep into all things positive.“
Never Never Chicago, IL Rock
Emerging from the vibrant music scene of the Windy City, Never Never has quickly established itself, delivering a distinctive sound. Formed in 2024, this five-piece ensemble seamlessly blends classic rock, lyrical melodies, and heavier elements, creating songs that are both familiar and refreshingly unpredictable. Their approach displays a band unafraid to push boundaries, mixing introspective moments with unbridled intensity. With their combination of seasoned musicianship and fresh creative energy, Never Never is poised to make significant waves both locally and beyond.
Phones + Bones
Chicago, IL
Alternative fusion
Phones + Bones is an alternative fusion band based out of the Near West Side of Chicago. The band features seven wind players, three rhythm players, and a vocalist. Together, the group combines a variety of styles with a wide range of multi-genre covers and originals. From its unique instrumentation to the cathode-ray tube TV smack dab in the middle of the stage, we’re sure you’ve never seen anything like this before.
Reilly Downes + the Acid Cowboys
Chicago, IL
Americana
Affectionately known as the Sad Cowgirl of Chicago, Reilly Downes is an Americana artist whose music intertwines heartfelt storytelling with the rich traditions of her Texas Hill Country roots. Her songs delve into themes of love, loss, and resilience, characterized by soulful melodies and poignant lyrics that resonate deeply with listeners. Reilly Downes continues to carve out a unique space in the Americana genre, offering music that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
Luis Luchessi
Melody Angel Chicago, IL
MERCHANT STREET MUSICFEST 2025 BAND BIOS
Slap Bunt
Chicago, IL
Punk
Slap Bunt is a four-piece garage punk band based in Chicago. Drawing inspiration from punk, country, metal, noise, and whatever else they’re obsessed with that week, Slap Bunt isn’t here to stick to one lane. Their songs swing from wild-eyed thrash to heartfelt twang, with lyrics that touch on queerness, alienation, friendship, and furious joy. Whether they’re playing basements, dive bars, or DIY festivals, Slap Bunt thrives on chaos, catharsis, and community.
Smut
Chicago, IL
Rock
Smut is a project that started a decade ago in Cincinnati, Ohio. After years in the Cincinnati DIY scene, they released their debut, How the Light Felt. That album brought the band to Chicago, a city with more room for their growing sound. They channeled this period of touring, personnel changes, and personal upheavals into their latest offering, Tomorrow Comes Crashing. Smut has always been DIY. Because they love it. Because they have to do it – there’s no other option.
The Bright Light Social Hour Austin, TX
Psych-rock
The Bright Light Social Hour have established themselves as a relentless force in the tapestry of American psychrock. Their impressive portfolio includes composing original soundtracks for HBO, MTV, and Nintendo. Their reputation for explosive live performances has led them to grace the stages of prestigious festivals including Austin City Limits and Lollapalooza, sharing the spotlight with legendary acts such as Aerosmith, Spoon, and The Flaming Lips. The Bright Light Social Hour’s innovative sound has garnered critical acclaim from esteemed publications like CLASH, NPR, and many more.
The People Brothers Band Madison, WI
Rhythm and soul
The People Brothers Band’s unique brand of rhythm and soul features some of the most talented vocalists and musicians in the region. The vibrant group of longtime friends formed in 2008 as an open mic songwriting outfit and hasn’t looked back since. The band has cultivated a captivating musical alchemy through collective dedication to their craft, the Midwest music community, and each other. The People Brothers Band is united by their shared vision of uplifting friends and fans through music.
Three’s a Crowd Kankakee, IL
Multi-genre covers
Formed in 2016, Three’s A Crowd Band is a genre-blending collective rooted in neo-soul, jazz, gospel, and R&B. United by a deep love for improvisation, the group lets the music lead the way, allowing each performance to evolve naturally and authentically. Their sound is soulful, spontaneous, and spiritual, creating rich sonic experiences that blur the lines between structure and freedom. With every note, they invite listeners into a dialogue shaped by groove, emotion, and the moment itself.
Ur Mom
Chicago, IL
Rock
Ur Mom is a rock quartet from the northwest suburbs of Chicago. The band combines an eclectic set of influences, including folk, classic rock, blues, pop, funk, and others. They have performed in and around the Chicagoland area at such notable venues and events as Subterranean, Beat Kitchen, Summerfest, Winnetka Music Festival, and others. Additionally, they competed in the 18th annual Bitter Jester Music Festival, placed as the Grand Champions, and recently opened for ZZ Top and Lynyrd Skynyrd at Ravinia Festival.
Warren G
Long Beach, CA
Hip-hop
When you think about West Coast hiphop, you can’t overlook the impact of Warren G. He didn’t just ride the wave of G-Funk - he helped create it. If you’re talking about hits, you can’t skip over “Regulate.” That track, featuring his longtime friend Nate Dogg, wasn’t just a song - it was an anthem. In 1994, “Regulate” dominated the charts, hitting #1 on the Billboard rap chart and #2 on the pop chart. The album Regulate…G Funk Era, sold four million copies worldwide, solidifying Warren G’s place in hip-hop history.
wht.rbbt.obj
Chicago, IL
Rock
Femme-fatale fronted and unapologetically raw, this Chicago-based four-piece blends garage rock, soul, and blues into something sultry, snarling, and alive. What began as a covert side project between married duo Frank and River Rabbitte turned into something bigger, louder, and harder to ignore. Fronted by the magnetic River Rabbitte, whose voice can kiss or kill depending on the verse, wht.rbbt.obj evolved into a full-force outfit chasing the chaos of sound and the thrill of danger.
MERCHANTSTREETMUSICFEST.COM
EAT AT MSMF
ART AT MSMF
Apalm Creations
Bo Leaf
C+L Fine Goods Boutique
Crochet by Katie P
Dark Moon Kreations
dnbartz
DwillaGraphs
Get Boned by Gypsy Warrior Tribe
Ghost Owl Studio
Acres
Tina’s Art Page Vibeymouseworkshop
SOME THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND AT MSMF:
We work hard to bring in a variety of musical genres, and each stage has a vibe all it’s own. Try visiting all THREE stages and you might just discover some are favorites!
We encourage attendees to bring their own chairs, EXCEPT for the Platform Stage where capacity is limited. Fewer chairs = MORE PEOPLE!
We have an ample supply of recycling receptacles as well as bike racks in and around Festival Square. Please take advantage and help keep Kankakee clean!
Weather you are a first-time visitor or a long-time resident of Kankakee, we are SO GLAD you’re here! You make MSMF what it is: a peak-of-summer collaboration of music, friendship, and community for all. Let’s get together and do it all again next year!
200 E Court Street, Suite 740 Kankakee, IL 60901 815-932-8484
200 E Court Street, Suite 740 Kankakee, IL 60901 815-932-8484
200 E Court Street, Suite 740 Kankakee, IL 60901 815-932-8484
1230 N Convent, Suite E Bourbonnais, IL 60914 815-802-1892
E Court Street, Suite 740 Kankakee, IL 60901 815-932-8484
APalm Creations
APalm Creations is the Kankakee Countybased husband and wife duo of Andy and Amy Palmer. Known for their distinctive wooden earrings, they also create various other pieces of jewelry and one-of-a-kind items out of copper, enamel, wood, resin, and mixed media. Every piece is unique and crafted with love!
Bo Leaf
Bo Leaf provides all handcrafted, unique pieces that go beyond just jewelry. Using some of the finest crystals available and pure copper, each item is created with intention for you. Bo Leaf has been on this journey for three years and believes it’s their calling to create with beauty and healing
MUSICFEST
C&L Fine Goods Boutique
C&L Fine Goods Boutique is an established hometown gem. Based in the heart of downtown Kankakee, they can be counted on to have an extensive selection of their high-quality and unique items available for fest-goers. And you can be sure everything will be offered at their always reasonable prices.
Crochet by Katie P will have a variety of handmade crochet items, including clothing and accessories. Katie began crocheting about two years ago, and it has quickly become their favorite way to spend time!
DarkMoon Kreations started with candles infused with crystals, bringing two things they love together. From all the dark witchy items to self-care to non-toxic ways to make you and your home smell amazing. They proudly offer 100% soy candles, essential oil rollers, home dried simmer pots, sage bundles, witches brooms, and lots more.
dnbartz
D’Angelo Brown Jr., a recent KHS graduate and current student at KCC, is an emerging artist and first-time vendor at MSMF. A self-taught artist who has been drawing since they were old enough to hold a pencil has produced a variety of pieces, including sketches, paintings, digital commissions, and murals.
DwillaGraphs
Kendra, aka Dwilla, is the proud artist and owner of DwillaGraphs. Born and raised in Kankakee, they have been creating their whole life. They focus on hand-drawn, intricate, and meticulous works of art that require significant time and dedication. People love them because with each viewing, they find something new.
Get
Boned by Gypsy Warrior Tribe
Get Boned creates cruelty-free bone and taxidermy jewelry and decor that is fueled by a passion for art and the ability to turn ideas into wearable, one-of-a-kind pieces. All items are handmade, and everything they use is CRUELTY-FREE. Quality of work is something they have taken pride in since the start, and it remains their highest priority.
Owl Studio
Ghost Owl Studio is an artist-owned and operated line of apparel and accessories. A winner of multiple t-shirt design contests, each item features cool and unique designs. Among the products you will find emblazoned with the artist’s original creations are graphic tees, sweatshirts, koozies, pins, and stickers.
Crochet by Katie P
DarkMoon Kreations
Ghost
Glue Man Vintage is a one-of-a-kind vintage store based in Bourbonnais, Illinois. From classic 1950s tracksuits to iconic Y2K bedazzled jeans, our handpicked collection spans decades, styles, and stories. Whether you’re hunting for a statement piece or just stopping by to vibe, there’s something here for everyone.
Little Angels’ Secret
It all started with a baby and a crochet hook. Little Angels’ Secret designs and creates handmade jewelry using a mix of materials like acrylic, wood, semiprecious stones, and leather. Alongside the jewelry line are practical, stylish, quilted items such as makeup bags, keychains, eyeglass cases, etc., that are perfect for everyday use or gifting.
MUSICFEST
Maleta Beads
New to the fest this year is Maleta Beads, specializing in hand-crafted beaded earrings, sure to add a splash of color and joy to your wardrobe! Make your look sassier one pair of earrings at a time.
May Bee Creatures
May Bee Creatures is an art collective comprised of partners Holly and Jessy. They specialize in cute and trippy art, whether it is woodburnings, acrylic paintings, glitter jars, or block prints. Specializing in cute and weird animals, their focus and hope is to spark childlike joy through art.
Rosewood Acres is a local business providing a variety of photographic solutions. They will be in Artist Alley with
their unique Selfie Experience. Stop by their booth with a friend, family member, date, or just yourself and a phone and unleash your inner child.
Tina’s Art Page
Tina’s Art Page is a family-owned business specializing in crocheted tops, plushies, keychains, and chokers. Tina also creates 3D printed dragons, castles, die towers, dice, dice holders, fidgets, keychains, and more! Tina and her family love meeting new customers and seeing the joy that their creations bring to all who see them.
Vibeymouseworkshop
Vibeymouseworkshop is a small business and creative outlet of an aspiring young artist looking to share their artwork with the world. Stop by their booth and check out their quirky and unique works.
Warmpaka
Welcome to Creative Hands, where every item is handmade with love by family. We offer artisan-crafted summer bucket hats, soft alpaca blankets, and adorable alpaca stuffed animals, each piece rooted in tradition and care. Visit at warmpaka.com to explore more of our creations!
Glue Man Vintage
Rosewood Acres
Discovering the right primary care provider can be better than finding a new band.
To ensure you can continue doing the things you love, make your health a priority.
From annual screenings to well checks and more, finding a provider that you feel comfortable with will be music to your ears. With over 35 primary care providers in the Riverside Medical Group, we have the right fit for you and your family.
Learn more about the way we care. RiversideHealthcare.org/primarycare // (855) 404-DOCS
MSMF Music Education Scholarship Winners
Merchant Street MusicFest is thrilled to bring a new educational opportunity to the event this year. In collaboration with King Music and The Dave King Memorial Music Fund, the MSMF Music Education Scholarship was launched. The goal of this endeavor is to encourage and support young musicians with big dreams in our community. As
Summer Dekens
Summer Dekens is a trombonist from Manteno, Illinois. She goes to Manteno High School, where she plays in their jazz ensemble, concert band, pit orchestra, and Manteno Magic’s instrumental combo. She is also a member of the astronomy club. Summer traces her interest in music back to her parents and credits all of her progress and success to the support they have given her the whole way. Summer hopes to be a band director one day and is very excited to expand and improve her musical skills by attending lessons at King Music
PROUD SPONSOR
stated by Ben King, “Music education is not just about learning notes and rhythms; it’s about fostering creativity, discipline, and resilience in our children.” Winners were chosen in two age categories and will receive eight free weeks of music lessons after which they can keep the instrument. Please join us in congratulating this year’s winners!
Taiwan Tyler
Taiwan Tyler will be entering fifth grade this fall at Bradley West. He has been playing the piano for three years and currently takes lessons at King Music. In addition to music, Taiwan is also a member of the chess club and is actively involved in his church community. This year, he is excited to join the fifth-grade band and begin learning to play the trumpet. Taiwan looks forward to continuing his musical journey by taking trumpet lessons at King Music alongside his piano studies.
MERCHANT STREET MUSICFEST FOOD VENDORS
Bamboo Island Snack Shack
A taste of Filipino food - lumpia, pancit, chicken adobo, pork/chicken on a stick, shrimp tempura, cassava cake turon
Shaved ice - choose and mix your favorite syrups for a completely customizable dessert
A free candy or color changing spoon with purchase.
Martinez Tacos
Local restaurant offering traditional Mexican favorites
$2 cheese quesadillas
MiaBella’s Wood Fired Pizza
Wood fired pizza using fresh ingredients and made to order
$13 kid’s cheese pizza
Moe’s Fresh Mediterranean
A Mediterranean food truck serving Greek and Lebanese street food
$7 chicken skewer and fries
Open Road Soda Co.
Get ready to sip in style with Open Road Soda Co. - a retro-inspired, family-run soda shack serving up seriously refreshing drinks with a twist of nostalgia. Serving from our nostalgic 70s inspired VW Bus and bursting with funky vibes, Open Road offers handcrafted sodas, energy spritzers, and road-trip snacks
