Groovin’ on the Green is set to return for its fifth year on Sept. 5, bringing a full evening of rhythm and blues, jazz, and soul to the front lawn of the Owensboro Convention Center.
The free concert begins at 5 p.m. and will take place rain or shine, continuing the event’s tradition of offering live music, food, and family-friendly activities over Labor Day weekend.
Headlining this year’s event is R&B artist Jon B, with additional performances by smooth jazz musician Gerry Smoot and Southern soul artist Big Mel.
Organizer Rafe Buckner of the Northwest Neighborhood Alliance said the event’s unique blend of genres and commitment to live music help set it apart.
“I just think some of the genres and some of the groups that we put together make it unique,” Buckner said. “We normally try to get somebody on the bluesy spectrum, somebody on the jazz spectrum, and then rhythm and blues. We’ve tried to stay true to that.”
Buckner said the overall atmosphere — including the downtown location, vendors, and crowd — plays a major role in the event’s appeal.
“I just think the whole ambiance, it just fits,” he said.
This year’s musical lineup reflects the event’s continued push toward nationally recognized talent while still highlighting regional connections. Smoot, a smooth jazz artist with local ties, will open the show, followed by Big Mel, an emerging Southern soul performer from Mississippi.
Jon B, known for hits in the 1990s and early 2000s, will close the night.
“We tried to shoot for more national acts,” Buckner said. “We think this is going to be the best one yet.”
Buckner said organizers are also seeing increased regional interest, with hotel room blocks secured at downtown properties to accommodate out-of-town visitors.
The concert has grown significantly since its debut at Moneta Sleet Jr. Park, where organizers initially aimed to bring more programming and activity to the space. Buckner said improvements to the park followed, but attendance eventually exceeded the location’s capacity.
“We outgrew that footprint,” he said. “The last year we had it in the park, it was wall to wall.”
After relocating downtown, the event has continued to expand, with estimates suggesting between 2,000 and 3,000 attendees throughout the day in recent years.
In addition to live performances, Groovin’ on the Green will feature a variety of vendors and activities. Organizers typically include six to eight food trucks, along with informational booths, health-related resources, and local vendors.
The event is also designed with families in mind, offering activities such as face painting and interactive art.
“We try to make it a kids’ and family event,” Buckner said.
As the event continues to grow, he said the goal remains the same — to bring the community together through music and shared experiences.
“We’re excited,” Buckner said. “We’re just hoping for great weather.”
