Young musicians from Richmond Public Schools will share the stage with Grammy-nominated artists Sept. 27 as the RVA East End Festival returns to Chimborazo Park to support arts programs in the East End. The free family-friendly event will run from noon to 7 p.m. at 3215 E. Broad St. under a large tent. If it rains, the festival will move to Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School, 1000 Mosby St. 

The festival has raised more than $550,000 since 2016 to fund music, visual arts and performing arts programs at schools in Richmond’s East End. 

Scheduled headliners are Lenny Holmes, Grammy-nominated guitarist, singer and producer; James “Saxsmo” Gates, four-time Grammy-nominated jazz saxophonist; the Dap Mallory Band, a versatile cover band; Corey El, singer, songwriter and music producer; and the Richmond Symphony one of the nation’s leading regional orchestras. 

The program will also feature performances by Richmond Public Schools students, the Richmond Police Community Band and the Keep It Movin’ Line Dance Crew. Destin Scott, an eighth grader at Franklin Military Academy, will sing the national anthem during the opening ceremony. 

“Where else but the RVA East End Festival can you see and hear such a diverse range of musical artistry in one place and at no charge for individuals and families to enjoy,” said the Rev. Marilyn Heckstall, the festival’s chair. 

“We want the young people of the East End to look at all of these successful musicians and say, ‘I can do that, too!’” said Cynthia Newbille, Richmond City Council president who represents the city’s 7th District. 

While admission is free, donations are encouraged and can be made online or to the Bucket Brigade at the event. The festival will also include food vendors, exhibit booths and a children’s play area. Free shuttle service to and from Chimborazo Park will be available. 

The vendor application deadline is Sept. 5. More information is available on the festival’s website and Facebook page.