Starting tomorrow band buses and semis packed with sound equipment and instruments will begin pulling into Gothenburg. Lake Helen will look somewhat like an ant hill, with workers busily scurrying about setting up a stage and fencing for the 12th annual Livin’ Out Loud.

The outdoor Christian concert actually began 13 years ago, but due to canceling during the 2020 pandemic this will mark the 12th event. Each year the concert draws thousands of people to Gothenburg and the surrounding area.

There is no admission charge for Livin’ Out Loud - the concert is funded entirely by sponsors and private donations. There will be opportunities to donate throughout the show, and those who attend are encouraged to give whatever they are able to help keep the event going.

A variety of food trucks will be available at the park beginning mid-afternoon on Saturday, Aug. 17, and attendees are invited to come early and set up their lawn chairs for the afternoon and evening. The first artist, Seph Schleuter, is scheduled to take the stage at about 4:45. A newcomer to the music world, Seph has found early success with his smash hit “Counting My Blessings”.

Following Seph will be Tori Harper. With uplifting tunes like “Seasons”, “Revival”, and “Joy”, Tori is sure to have everyone dancing along as she performs.

Next on the stage is Thunderstorm Artis – and if you aren’t familiar with his name or his music now, you will be. This talented young vocalist comes from a very musical family - his father Ron was a Motown session player who performed on iconic tracks like Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” while his mother Victoria toured as a backup singer for the likes of Lena Horne. His powerful vocals will grab your attention, just as they did the judges of 'The Voice' in 2020.

'Tenth Avenue North' is back on tour after a hiatus for a little over three years, and Livin’ Out Loud is proud to be one of the first venues on the well-known group’s new tour. The band’s new single “Suddenly” has been receiving great reviews. And of course, nearly everyone will be singing along to favorites like “Worn”, “I Have This Hope”, and “Control”, to name a few.

The final band of the night will be “We The Kingdom” - and you will not want to miss it! With hits like “Holy Water”, “Child of Love”, and “Jesus Does”, this high-energy band is guaranteed to have people on their feet. The group recently teamed up with Tauren Wells and Davies for the powerful song “Take It All Back”.

Don’t forget to come back to the park on Sunday morning for a community worship service led by 'Tenth Avenue North' frontman Mike Donehey with a message by Roger Cooper. That gets started at 10:45 a.m.

Livin’ Out Loud is funded and operated entirely by donations and volunteers and could use your help. If interested in volunteering, or if you are unable to attend but would like to make a financial donation, visit livinoutloud.org for more information.