The 6th annual Bill Bell Jazz & Heritage Festival will be held Aug 16-18, 2019. This free, three-day event celebrates “the indigenous music and culture of people who helped build the Quad Cities with their blood, sweat and tears”, and features musical styles beyond jazz such as blues, R&B, folk, rock, rap, and Latin sounds.
Events on Friday, Aug 16 and Saturday, Aug 17 will be held at Martin Luther King, Jr. Park in Rock Island. In addition to the free musical performances, youth programs and children’s activities will be available, so bring your entire family and comfortable lawn chairs and prepare for a good time. Health Awareness Initiatives are being held on Saturday, Aug 17 beginning at 1:30 PM prior to the start of the musical lineup. On Sunday, Aug 18, performances will be held at the River Music Experience venue in Davenport and will also include poetry readings. There is something for everyone at this community strengthening event.
Listen to our conversation here with Shellie Moore Guy, festival organizer and previous Poet-Laureate of the Quad Cities, about the details of the event, the rich cultural and musical heritage of our community, and about Dr. Bill Bell, for whom the festival is named.
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Park is located at 601 9th St. in Rock Island. River Music Experience is at 129 Main St. in Davenport. More information about the Festival is available on Facebook.
