CBUS Soul Fest: What to expect at the local celebration
"Do you like good music, that sweet soul music?"
Arthur Conley posed this question in his 1967 hit and if you answered in the affirmative, you're not alone. The thousands who turned out for the last two CBUS Soul Fests would agree.
Presented by Columbus Recreation and Parks Department in collaboration with Experience Columbus, CBUS Soul Fest is one of many local events that bring together people from all backgrounds to experience a specific culture's music and food.
"Columbus Recreation and Parks Department is proud to support Black culture. The Black community is important in shaping our city and you can see the influence of our rich culture throughout the city," said Dominique Shank, community relations chief for Columbus Rec and Parks.
Now in its third year, CBUS Soul Fest was created to "celebrate and elevate" Black culture and businesses in Columbus, said Sarah Townes, chief marketing and innovation officer at Experience Columbus.
Soul superstars to take stage: CBUS Soul Fest lineup: Tony! Toni! Toné!, J Rawls and more set to perform
“What began as an effort to champion our community has transformed into a top summer attraction, showcasing the exceptional art, food and people that make our city unique," she said.
"CBUS Soul Fest promises to be an unforgettable event, featuring a dynamic lineup of iconic acts including both local and national talents like Tony! Toni! Toné!”
Want to know who else is performing? What to eat? Where to park? We've got you covered on all counts. Before you pack up your lawn chairs, blankets and coolers and head to CBUS Soul Fest this weekend, here are some things to know.
When and where will CBUS Soul Fest be held?
The fest will take place from 4-11 p.m. Saturday in Genoa Park, 303 W. Broad St.
How much is admission?
Zilch. Zero dollars. That’s right, it’s free!
Who’s headlining the fest this year?
Two soul hit-makers are sharing the bill on the Main Stage. First up will be Kindred the Family Soul, a neo-soul duo made up of husband and wife Fatin Dantzler and Aja Graydon. They’ll appear at 6:30 p.m. Tony! Toni! Toné! will wrap up the festival with a 9 p.m. performance.
Will any local entertainers be there?
Indeed, they will. The Plaza Stage will showcase three Columbus-based acts. DJ (and OSU assistant professor) J Rawls will take the stage at 4 p.m., followed by The Liquid Crystal Project at 5 p.m. The band’s sound, which they dubbed “jazz-hop” has won them fans as far as Europe. Brianna O'Dell, whose local appearances have included singing the national anthem at Columbus Crew games and opening for Bruno Mars at Nationwide Arena, will perform at 8 p.m.
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What if all that dancing makes me hungry and thirsty?
You’ll have your pick of a dozen food trucks offering barbecue, chicken, made-to-order doughnuts and even vegan sambusas (similar to samosas). If you fancy more exotic fare, a diverse spread of cuisines will be available including Nigerian, Mediterranean and Hawaiian-Asian fusion.
Quench your thirst at a beverage booth offering water, Pepsi products, draft beer, canned cocktails and wine.
Last year’s Main Stage art was cool. Will there be art this year?
Columbus mixed-media artist April Sunami, who created the Main Stage mural for CBUS Soul Fest 2023, is back this year, so you can expect to see another stunning backdrop.
What’s the parking situation?
Parking is located throughout Downtown, including at COSI, the National Veterans Memorial and Museum and area surface lots. Illegally parked cars will be ticketed and towed. You can save yourself the hassle by reserving your parking ahead of time through ParkColumbus at parkcolumbus.parkmobile.io/venue/genoa-park.
You can also ride your own bike or rent a CoGo at cogobikeshare.com to travel the trails and bikeways that lead to the Scioto Mile. Additionally, many local bus routes offer service to Downtown and the Scioto Mile. For schedules and route details, visit COTA.com.
What do I do with my bike or scooter when I get to Genoa Park?
Bikes and scooters must be walked through the event and parked on the perimeter of the festival grounds. Also, skateboards, hoverboards and unauthorized motorized vehicles are not permitted on the grounds.
Is the CBUS Soul Fest wheelchair-accessible?
Yes, it is, but please be aware that wheelchair and stroller rentals will not be available.
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Will cash be accepted at the fest?
All beverage booths are cashless; credit card and mobile pay options will be accepted. For food, the form of payment is determined by each vendor.
Can I bring my pet?
Animals are allowed in the park, but it's strongly recommended that you leave pets at home. If you do bring your furry friends, they must be leashed at all times and you must clean up after them.
Can I bring a cooler to the park?
Festivalgoers are allowed to bring coolers labeled with the owner’s name and phone number. However, carry-in alcohol, glass bottles and containers are not permitted.
For more information, including a fest map and a list of prohibited items, go to cbussoulfest.com.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: CBUS Soul Fest to feature Tony! Toni! Toné! in Genoa Park on Aug. 17
