The Springfield Area Arts Council (SAAC), in partnership with the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum and Downtown Springfield Inc., is excited to announce the return of Artist in the Park at Food Truck Fridays, a free weekly summer event series held in Union Square Park, located at 500 E. Madison Street in downtown Springfield.

Every Friday from May 30 to August 1, Union Square Park will come alive from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM with live performances by local artists, including musicians, dancers, and poets. This year’s lineup includes acts like Copper Coin Ballet Company, Capital Big Band, Jose Gobbo, and Springfield Poets and Writers. 


In addition to the performances, food trucks will be on-site from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM, offering a wide variety of lunch options curated by Downtown Springfield Inc. Whether you come for the music, the food, or both, it’s the perfect way to spend your Friday lunch hour in the heart of the city.

“We’re thrilled to bring back this beloved summer tradition,” said Bella Szabo, Executive Director of the Springfield Area Arts Council. “It’s a great way to support local artists, enjoy delicious food, and build community—right in the middle of your day.” 

The event is free, family-friendly, accessible, and sensory-friendly. Outdoor seating is available throughout the park, and in the event of rain, performances will move indoors with seating provided. A special thanks to the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum for sponsoring this program, which allows SAAC to pay all participating performers. For more information and the full schedule, visit SAAC’s website.