Downtown Kankakee is boasting its ‘shining star,’ the Merchant Street Music Fest today (Friday) and Saturday. Thirty-five different bands offer a variety of musical entertainment, food vendors and crafts and art displays.

94.1 WGFA is broadcasting ‘live’ to get the event underway. (WGFA’s Don Elliott will anchor the broadcast from 4 -6 pm).

The annual MSMF is at the newly-named Festival Square. The former Depot Park, surrounding the historic railroad depot. It’s the site for many community events.

Kankakee Mayor Nina Epstein says the square is a symbol of community, bringing people together.

The mayor credits past administrations for getting the MSMF concept moving forward and putting the community on the map in a positive way.

The mayor said Kankakee may not be a retail center anymore, but “we are an arts & entertainment district.”

94.1 WGFA