Harper Stantz’s Legacy Lives On at Binghamton’s Rec Park Music Fest

If you’re looking for the perfect way to spend a summer Sunday in Binghamton, the 7th Annual Harper M. Stantz Rec Park Music Fest, also the 30th Annual Rec Park Music Fest, is calling your name.

This Sunday, August 17, from 2 to 8 p.m., historic Recreation Park will come alive with the sound of local and regional music, great food, and the kind of community spirit that makes this event so special.

A Tradition Three Decades Strong

Since 1996, the Rec Park Music Fest has been a summertime tradition, giving people a reason to gather, dance, and soak in the park’s beauty. Originally founded by bassist Jim Reyen of The Rhythm Gypsys, the festival was all about promoting original and jam band music while creating a space where neighbors could connect.

Honoring Harper’s Spirit

In 2019, the festival was renamed in honor of Harper M. Stantz, a 16 year old Westside Binghamton resident whose life was tragically cut short. Harper had been walking home from Rec Park with her best friend when she was struck and killed. Known for her love of friends, music, adventure, and her compassionate nature, Harper left a lasting mark on the community. The Stantz family had always supported the festival, and it will forever serve as a celebration of her life.

A Day Packed with Live Music

This year’s lineup is stacked with talent from start to finish. Heavy Delish kicks things off at 2 p.m., followed by Allie Torto at 3 p.m., Home Brew at 4 p.m., Sophistafunk at 5:30 p.m., and Caviar & Grits closing things out at 7 p.m. Whether you’re into soulful grooves, rock, funk, or something in between, you’ll find it here.

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Free, Fun, and For Everyone

The best part? This festival is completely free, and everyone is invited. All you need is a blanket or lawn chair, an appetite for good food from local vendors, and a love for live music. Spend the afternoon with friends and family, enjoy the summer breeze, and be part of a celebration that blends music, history, and heartfelt remembrance.