Gospel superstars Tasha Cobbs Leonard and Hezekiah Walker to headline 2026 Chicago Gospel Music Festival in Millennium Park

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CHICAGO - Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) today announced the lineup for the 2026 Chicago Gospel Music Festival, returning to Millennium Park for a free two-day celebration on Friday, July 24, and Saturday, July 25.

As one of the nation's premier free gospel music events, the Chicago Gospel Music Festival honors Chicago's enduring legacy as the birthplace of gospel music while bringing together celebrated national artists, local performers and community choirs for a weekend of inspiration, faith and music. This year's festival features headline performances from Hezekiah Walker and Love Fellowship Choir, Ricky Dillard and New G and Tasha Cobbs Leonard.

"Chicago's gospel music tradition continues to inspire audiences around the world and serves as a powerful source of hope, healing and community here at home," said Mayor Brandon Johnson. "The Chicago Gospel Music Festival celebrates the artists, churches and communities that have shaped this influential genre, and we are proud to welcome residents and visitors from all around to this free cultural tradition in Millennium Park."

"Chicago is the birthplace of gospel music, and this festival celebrates a legacy that continues to inspire younger generations," said DCASE Commissioner Kenya K. Merritt. "From legendary performers to emerging voices, the Chicago Gospel Music Festival reflects the creativity, faith and cultural richness that define our city while bringing communities together through the transformative power of music."

Saturday programming for Chicago Gospel Festival will begin in the North Promenade tent featuring live broadcasts, gospel DJs and performances from local artists and community groups throughout the afternoon, in collaboration with iHeartRadio's gospel music station Inspiration 1390. This activation highlights the festival's commitment to showcasing Chicago's vibrant gospel community while creating opportunities for audiences to discover both established and emerging talent.

"Chicago Gospel Music Festival continues to be one of the most meaningful celebrations of faith, music and community in the country," said Sonya Blakey, Inspiration 1390 Program Director. "We are proud to partner with DCASE to showcase both nationally recognized gospel artists and the incredible local talent that keeps Chicago's gospel legacy thriving. This festival reminds us of the power of gospel music to inspire, uplift and bring people together."

As in previous years, outside alcohol is not permitted at the Chicago Gospel Music Festival. Attendees should anticipate standard security measures at all entry points and are encouraged to review the list of prohibited items and safety guidelines by visiting the Plan Your Visit page on Chicago.gov/DCASE.

The Chicago Gospel Music Festival is presented with the support of generous sponsors including Inspiration 1390, Lloyd A. Fry Foundation, Millennium Garages, and Chicago Transit Authority. For the most up-to-date information, full schedule details, and announcements, visit Chicago.gov/DCASE and follow @ChicagoDCASE on social media.

2026 Chicago Gospel Music Festival
Friday, July 24 (5:45-9 p.m.)
Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park

Hosted by Inspiration 1390's Sonya Blakey with special guest host Anita Wilson

• 5:45-6 p.m. - Emcee Introduction, National Anthem and Lift Every Voice
• 6-6:15 p.m. - Neicy Robertson
• 6:30-6:50 p.m. - Jabari Johnson
• 7-7:45 p.m. - Bishop William Murphy
• 8-9 p.m. - Tasha Cobbs Leonard

2026 Chicago Gospel Music Festival
Saturday, July 25 (Noon-9 p.m.)
North Promenade + Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park

North Promenade
Presented in Partnership with Inspiration 1390
Noon-3:45 p.m.
Inspiration 1390 live broadcast
Featured Community Showcase Performances

• noon-12:30 p.m. - DJ Sam Williams
• 12:30-1 p.m. - Sidney Buckner & Y.I.U. 
• 1-1:30 p.m. - LeNasia Tyson
• 1:30-2 p.m. - Johari McGhee 
• 2-2:45 p.m. - Daniel X Smith & New St Matthew MBC 
• 2:45-3:30 p.m. - Tim White 
• 3:30-3:45 p.m. - DJ Sam Williams

Jay Pritzker Pavilion Stage
Hosted by Inspiration 1390's Sonya Blakey with special guest host DeAndre Patterson

• 3:45-4 p.m. - Emcee Introduction, National Anthem and Lift Every Voice
• 4-4:35 p.m. - Ray Bady and Queenie present Chicago Youth United featuring Chicago's top youth performers
• 4:50-5:25 p.m. - Lil' Harry presents "The Ladies of Chicago Quartet"
• 5:40-6:15 p.m. - DeAndre Patterson and Janet Sutton present "The Chicago Unity Choir"
• 6:30-7:30 p.m. - Ricky Dillard and New G
• 7:45-9 p.m. - Hezekiah Walker and Love Fellowship Choir

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Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events
The City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) supports artists and cultural organizations, invests in the creative economy, and expands access and participation in the arts throughout Chicago's 77 neighborhoods. As a collaborative cultural presenter, arts funder, and advocate for creative workers, our programs and events serve Chicagoans and visitors of all ages and backgrounds, downtown and in diverse communities across our city - to strengthen and celebrate Chicago. DCASE produces some of the city's most iconic festivals, markets, events, and exhibitions at the Chicago Cultural Center, Millennium Park, and in communities across the city - serving a local and global audience of 25 million people. The Department offers cultural grants and resources, manages public art, supports TV and film production and other creative industries, and permits special events throughout Chicago. For details, visit Chicago.gov/DCASE and stay connected via our newsletters and social media.

Millennium Park
Millennium Park is the #1 attraction in the Midwest and among the top 10 most-visited sites in the U.S. It is also the anchor of an urban cultural campus (Millennium Park Campus) that includes the Chicago Cultural Center, Maggie Daley Park and The Art Institute of Chicago. Millennium Park is located on Michigan Avenue, bordered by Randolph St. to the north, Columbus Dr. to the east and Monroe St. to the south. The Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Plan your visit at MillenniumPark.org; follow us on Facebook (@MillenniumParkChicago), and Instagram (@Millennium_Park); and join the conversation on social media using #MillenniumPark.