ALTON, Ill. – The “sounds of summer” are returning to the riverfront in Alton, IL, after a 44-year-long hiatus with music, boating, and a cornhole tournament in June.

The Mississippi River Music Festival is making its comeback after originally appearing from 1969 to 1980 in Edwardsville. According to a release, the original festival held some of the music industry’s biggest names, including The Eagles, Joni Mitchell, B.B. King, and more.

“Revisiting a festival of this magnitude is no small task,” Nick Bifano, Mississippi River Festival director, said in a release. “We understand the gravity this name carries and the responsibility we have to do all things with excellence. What excites me the most is the opportunity to bring national attention to our river town and celebrate the already incredible music and arts scene.”

This year, Larkin Poe is headlining with special guests Tyler Bryant and the Shakedown, Fastball, and FEEL on June 22 at the Alton Amphitheater.

Along with the music, guests can also attend F1 powerboat racing over the course of two days on June 22 and 23. A party will be held on June 21, providing the chance to meet the drivers and celebrate at Mac’s Downtown.

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According to a release, visitors can expect to see tri-hulls, formula lights, F1 powerboats, and J-Hydro speed-action powerboats.

“The City of Alton is a great place for music festivals and powerboat racing,” Alton Mayor David Goins stated in a release. “We are proud to be the host site for both the revitalized Mississippi River Festival and F1 Powerboat Racing. This will be a weekend to remember for everyone.”

Another activity planned is the first F1 Championship Cornhole Tournament on the morning of June 23. Cash prizes will be awarded.

General admission tickets are now on sale, and VIP or reserved seating will go on sale May 3. To purchase tickets for both bleacher and VIP experiences at the F1 championship or to sign up for the cornhole tournament, click here.

“It’s exciting to bring the famous Mississippi River Festival back to life after a 44-year absence,” Cory Jobe, president and CEO of the Great Rivers & Routes Tourism Bureau, said. “Pairing great music with great river racing equals a powerful weekend event that you won’t be able to find anywhere else in southwest Illinois this summer.”

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