The Unity Christian Music Festival is one of the biggest summer events in Muskegon, Michigan. This annual music festival attracts crowds in the tens of thousands over four days who come to enjoy good food, fellowship, family fun, interesting speakers, and especially great music by top nationally and internationally-known contemporary Christian music artists, as well as some local bands. Not only is there plenty of fun, but also incredible times of worship in an outdoor setting. The event is held at Heritage Landing, on the shores of Muskegon Lake. This year, the festival is being held August 7-10, 2013.
As always, things kick off on Wednesday afternoon, which is Day Zero, so called because there is no admission fee or tickets required. Gates open at 4 p.m. on Day Zero.
Some changes are being introduced at this year’s festival. For Thursday and Friday, gates will open at 1:00 p.m. instead of 4:00 p.m. as in previous years. This will give attendees and their families more time to enjoy the kids’ activities, seminars at the X-Change Tent, browse the merch tables, or just enjoy the walk along the water’s edge of Muskegon Lake. Gates open on Saturday at 1 p.m. as well.
Ticket prices are cheaper the earlier you order; at the time of this writing, tickets are $15 per person per day until May 1; a two-day pass is $30, and a three-day pass is $40. After May 1, the prices rise periodically up until the day of the event; the longer you wait to order tickets, the more you will pay. Children under age 5 are free when accompanied by an adult. To see the pricing schedule, go to the Unity Christian Music Festival website at www.unitymusicfestival.com . Tickets are on sale now and can be bought at all Startickets locations, by phone at 1-800-585-3737, or online at www.startickets.com .
As of this writing, the only information available on artists who will be performing is as follows: on Thursday, August 8, the headliner will be Hillsong LIVE, from Australia. Atlanta-based group Casting Crowns will headline Friday night’s event. This band has won multiple DOVE awards, as well as a Grammy Award and an American Music Award.
More information on other musical artists and speakers will become available as the artist lineups are finalized in the next few months; keep updated by checking in on the Unity Christian Music Festival website, or “like” the Unity Facebook page to receive updates.
For those who are traveling to Muskegon from other cities or states, there are many hotels/motels in the area, but make your reservations early.
There are plenty of parking areas near the venue and the cost is quite reasonable. The event is very well-run and clean; there are plenty of restroom facilities available, and many food vendors on site. Volunteers are plentiful and very friendly and helpful. Local radio station JQ99 personalities will be emceeing the event and also providing some fun for all to participate in as well.
If you are planning summer activities or vacation for your family, the Unity Christian Music Festival is a great choice.
