The Mount Vernon Music and Arts Festival (MVMAF) and The Woodward Opera House will team up to kick off this year’s festivities, welcoming emerging Nashville country artist Jess Kellie Adams and her band for a fundraising concert, Thursday, August 8, at 6:30 p.m.

Jess Kellie Adams is the lead vocalist of her band and sings with the help of Zach Goforth on bass and background vocals, and Zach Reeder on electric guitar, acoustic guitar, and piano, along with additional musicians. She has performed at several venues regionally and nationally, including the Georgia National Fair, the South Carolina State Fair, and our own Knox County Fair.  Jess played 65 shows in 2023 and is scheduled for a nine-day run at this year’s Delaware State Fair.

Jess has worked with Dean Sams of Lonestar, along with many other renowned country musicians, who have helped her hone her extraordinary and dynamic voice.  Jess captivates listeners and seeks to deliver a message about following your heart, knowing yourself, and chasing your dreams. Her music style is a combination of favorites from the 90’s and 2000’s country and rock n roll, plus her own original songs. In addition to being a powerhouse performer, Jess makes sure to spend time meeting and talking with fans, sharing stories, and developing a connection with everyone.

Dena Hess, House Manager at the Woodward Opera House, was introduced to Jess Kellie Adams three years ago. “I had the privilege of being introduced to Jess a few years ago and was able to give her a tour of our amazing city,” Hess said. “She fell in love with The Woodward and I fell in love with her!! Working with The Mount Vernon Music & Arts Festival and keeping this event available to our community is a very high priority for not only myself but The Woodward Opera House as well. We pride ourselves on being the center for affordable, fun, family entertainment and Jess Kellie Adams fits that mission perfectly. It is such an honor to kick off this year's event with JKA live on stage at The Woodward Opera House.”

The 2024 MVMAF officially begins at 5:00 Thursday evening, August 8. Doors for the concert open at 5:30 that evening. Tickets are $15 and are available online at thewoodward.org. Proceeds from the MVMAF kickoff show will go towards the operating expenses of the Festival.

Thursday night’s MVMAF schedule also includes Phil Dirt & the Dozers at 8:30 p.m. on the Public Square’s main stage. Updates about preferred concert seating tickets, plus the annual car and motorcycle cruise-in, other events, and schedules for this year’s MVMAF can be found at https://www.mvmaf.org/ or on the Festival’s Facebook and Instagram (@mvmafohio).

The 2024 Mount Vernon Music and Arts Festival is Thursday evening until Sunday afternoon, August 8-11, around the Public Square and the streets of downtown Mount Vernon.