Wellness Fest Invites Local Artist & Creatives to Showcase Talent as Healthy Alternatives to Substance Use

KANKAKEE, IL — The Iroquois-Kankakee Regional Office of Education’s Life Education Center, in partnership with its Youth Advisory Council, is calling on local artists, musicians, performers, and creatives to take the stage at Wellness Fest on Saturday, May 16, from 8:00 a.m. to noon at the Kankakee Farmers’ Market.

This free, family-friendly event highlights substance use prevention through positive, healthy alternatives — and we believe the arts are one of the most powerful forms of prevention.

Wellness Fest is seeking musicians, visual artists, dancers, spoken word artists, cultural performers, and other creatives who want to demonstrate how creative expression supports mental, emotional, and social well-being. Your talent can inspire young people and families to see that connection, creativity, and community are meaningful alternatives to substance use.

Participating artists will have the opportunity to:

• Perform live music, spoken word, or dance

• Host interactive art demonstrations or mini-workshops

• Showcase visual art or creative projects

• Engage youth in hands-on creative experiences

• Share how art and creativity contribute to personal wellness

• Build visibility and connect with new audiences

Wellness Fest emphasizes whole-person wellness — physical, mental, emotional, and social — and celebrates the many ways creativity strengthens individuals and communities. By sharing your art, you help send a powerful message: healthy outlets and supportive communities make a difference.

“Wellness Fest is about showing young people what’s possible,” organizers shared. “When artists and creatives step forward to share their gifts, they help demonstrate that expression, connection, and purpose are strong, positive alternatives.”

Artists and performers interested in participating are encouraged to join us in creating an uplifting, inspiring morning of community wellness. Contact Lori at the Life Education Center at 815-936-4606 or lmollema@i-kan.org for registration details and partnership information. Registration is also available here.