The RVA East End Festival recently announced its lineup for Sept. 21, featuring headliners Victor Haskins & Skein and James “Saxsmo” Gates. The free, family-friendly event runs from noon to 9 p.m. at Chimborazo Park.

Richmond’s Celebration Male Chorus,  with selected young men from the 7th District, opens the festival at noon, followed by kindergarten and first grade singers from Bellevue Elementary School.

The schedule also includes the Dap Mallory Band, Armstrong High School Dancers and Drumline, Chamber Ensembles of the Richmond Symphony, student violinist Isaac Wilson, No BS! Brass Band, DJ Adapt, Sounds Funny Band and Just Us Band.The Rev. Marilyn Heckstall, 2024 festival chair, praised the event’s lineup.

“Where else but the RVA East End Festival can you see some of Richmond’s most celebrated music talent in one place, and at no charge for individuals and families to enjoy,” she said.

Since 2016, the festival has raised over $458,000 to support music, visual arts, and performing arts programs East End Richmond Public Schools. Past proceeds from the festival have been used by the RPS Education Foundation to acquire or repair musical instruments, create a dance studio at Armstrong High School, purchase new pianos, buy choral risers, concert attire and visual arts supplies.

The festival’s financial goal for 2024 is $300,000.

Free bus shuttle rides will be available throughout the day from various East End locations.

The festival is sponsored by Bon Secours Richmond Health System, with partners including the City of Richmond and the Richmond Symphony.