Kenosha – The Lincoln Park Live Music Series returns for its 11th-season bringing a vibrant lineup of musical artists to Kenosha’s Lincoln Park throughout the summer, organizers announced today.
Presented by the Mary Lou & Arthur F. Mahone Foundation, the series is held in partnership with the Kenosha Parks Alliance, with performances held over four Wednesdays beside the scenic backdrop of Lincoln Park’s Warren J. Taylor Flower Garden.
This year’s performance schedule is:
- July 8: Christopher’s Project (Funky Jazz, Classic Soul)
- July 22: Orquesta Ayala (Salsa)
- Aug. 5: Lady A featuring Ben Woods (Classic Country, Motown, R&B,)
- Aug. 19: Gizzae (Reggae)
Admission is free. Event grounds open at 5 p.m. DJ Cash begins spinning tunes at 6 p.m. to warm up the crowd, and live music begins at 6:30 p.m. on all performance nights.
The Lincoln Park Live Music Series started as a simple idea – to bring people together through the power of music. “For 11 seasons, Lincoln Park Live! has been the soundtrack of summer and the heartbeat of our community at the Lincoln Park Flower Garden,” said Brandon Morris, Lincoln Park Live Music Series committee member and lifelong Lincoln Park neighborhood resident.
“This year’s lineup is a celebration of the music that brings people together— salsa, reggae, blues, soul, Motown, and Afro-soul rock, music that moves people and creates lasting memories. We’re excited to welcome everyone back for another unforgettable summer.”
Back by popular demand, the Kenosha Public Library Kids Zone, an interactive play area for kids to enjoy while their parents are listening to the performers. The Kids Zone is made possible by a partnership between the Kenosha Public Library and the Mahone Foundation. Activities include music-based themes such as instrument creation and the science of sound and dance, scavenger hunts, and the opportunity for each kid to take home a book to keep.
"Summer learning doesn't only happen in classrooms and libraries. It happens wherever children are encouraged to explore, create, and connect with their community. The KPL Kids Zone brings hands-on learning, literacy, and discovery directly to families where they already gather. By combining books, play, and engaging STEAM activities in a fun outdoor setting, we're helping children stay curious, build skills, and foster a lifelong love of learning throughout the summer.", said Sarah Townsend Kenosha Public Library director. I’m grateful to the to the Mahone Foundation for their support of this event and the Uptown neighborhood.”
“We’re excited to bring back the Kids Zone to Lincoln Park,” said Ardis Mahone Mosley, Lincoln Park Live Music Series committee member. “The addition of this fun filled area gives kids and families an opportunity to get a book, learn and play games together while enjoying exceptional musical performances in the spirit of keeping Lincoln Park Live!
Food vendors will be selling delicious treats at each performance. Wine and beer will be available for purchase (alcoholic carry-ins are prohibited). Patrons will also be able to purchase tickets for the 50/50 raffle supported by the Tremper HS Student Government. Proceeds benefit the Mahone Foundation.
Founded in 1999 in honor of the memory of the late Mary Lou and Arthur F. Mahone, leading advocates for social justice in Kenosha, the Mahone Foundation’s mission is to provide educational opportunities for economically and academically deserving youth, while also supporting healthy lifestyle initiatives in communities of color.
Mosley said “the music series helps advance that mission, while also bringing the community together in a prime, historic location in the heart of the city.
“Visit Kenosha is proud to support the Mary Lou & Arthur F. Mahone Foundation. Events like Lincoln Park Live that bring the community together and are inviting to tourists are a wonderful asset,” said Dennis DuChene, President of Visit Kenosha
“From the start, Lincoln Park Live! has brought outstanding live music, family-friendly fun, and vibrance to this jewel of a park in Kenosha,” Mosley said. “It is my family’s and the Mahone Foundation’s honor to present another exciting season in 2026.”
Lincoln Park is located at 6900 18th Ave.; the flower garden is on the west end of the park, near 22nd Avenue. Free parking is available along the north side of Martin Luther King Drive, just south of the flower gardens and the performance area.
For more information about the series, visit https://www.mahonefund.org/lpl/.
Lincoln Park Live! Lineup and Schedule
Christopher’s Project, Wednesday, July 8 – Soulful jazz, R&B classics and powerhouse vocals headed by saxophonist Christopher Pipkins, three-time winner of “Showtime at the Apollo.” Christopher’s Project has opened for legendary national acts such as The Temptations, George Bensen, David Sanborn, The Supremes & Jennifer Holiday.
Orquesta Ayala, Wednesday, July 22 – Tony and Wichy Ayala grew up surrounded by the rhythms of salsa that defined the 1970's. Formed in 2024 Orchestra Ayala is dedicated to reviving the energy romance and vibrancy of romantic salsa of the 1990s. Orquesta Ayala with its "SALSA NOVENTOSA" pays tribute to an era while still maintaining the essence of music and their Puerto Rican culture. Spending countless hours dissecting every horn line, piano montuno, and percussion break. They are captivated by the sounds of legends like Ishmael Rivera Bobby Valentine and El Gran combo de Puerto Rico
LADY A featuring Ben Woods, Wednesday, August 5 – Over the course of 3 decade-plus career, Lady A has become one of the 21st century’s premier vocal groups in Northern Illinois and Southeast Wisconsin, blending deeply felt emotions with classic Country, Top 40, Blues, Motown, Rock, R&B. You will be captivated by the performance that Lady A has to offer. Accompanied by the best musicians in the land. She will feature Kenosha’s very own performing artist and ministry leader Ben Woods, a 2026 American Idol contestant.
GIZZAE, Wednesday, August 19 – More than just a Chicago band, Gizzae is a musical tapestry woven from the diverse experiences of its members, hailing from across the globe. With over 35 years of grooving, they have earned Grammys, Chicago Music Awards, and shared stages with reggae royalty like Ziggy Marley, Rolling Stones, and Toots & the Maytals.
