Now in its 63rd year, this popular festival has earned an unsurpassed tradition of presenting the world’s finest carillonneurs on the 67-bell instrument in a tower. While it typically takes place in June, this year it has been moved up to coincide with Memorial Day weekend. This year’s carillonneurs are Jeremy Chesmann of Springfield, Missouri.; Toni Raats, The Netherlands; Kim Shafer, Chicago; Wim van den Broeck, Belgium; and Springfield’s very own Carlo van Ulft, the Springfield Park District’s master carillonist. The carillon music begins at 6:30 p.m. each night except Saturday, with different acts opening before the concerts. All concerts are about 45 minutes in duration. Several monitors will be positioned around the tower to view the playing keyboard and carillonists during the performances. Individuals and families are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chairs and a picnic dinner. Food trucks also will be present. And we can’t forget the fireworks! There will be a fireworks show Friday at dusk. The festival is presented by the Springfield Park District with the support of The Rees Carillon Society and The Carillon Belles. Free.
International Carillon Festival
May 22-25, 6 p.m. start except for May 24, 5:30 p.m.
Thomas Rees Memorial Carillon
1740 W. Fayette Ave.
217-306-1838
carillon-rees.org