In May of 2000, Sioux City resident Kevin Gullings literally dreamed of a Christian music festival. Two days later, he called the parks department and reserved Grandview Park for the last Saturday in July. Over the next few days, he shared his dream with others and his dream became Freedom Fest. His small group of volunteers met on a weekly basis to line up the bands and vendors, develop kids' activities, alert the media, and so forth. The funds started to come in from area churches and businesses.

And God met their needs. Gullings was astounded when a couple visiting from the Netherlands, people he had never met, gave him a check for $500!

Only three months later, on Saturday, July 29, 2000, the festival became reality. The day began with a beautiful sunrise. There was a nice breeze and the temperature topped out at 78 degrees. There was excitement in the air and the whole day went perfectly, with the exception of the sound system going out for a brief period of time. After the festival, they had $600 to donate to Siouxland Youth for Christ.

The second year, a Freedom Fest committee started planning in February. More people got involved and the festival grew. Hundreds of hours of planning and organizing were spent getting ready.

Again, the day of the festival was clear and beautiful, around 82 degrees. And again, the sound system went out right at the beginning of the first act. It was quickly restored and the festival continued. More people attended the festival and the excitement was contagious. The Freedom Fest organizers knew they were on to something great!

This third year, the committee started planning in January. Many more people brought their talents and resources to the festival. Many more churches and businesses gave their support.

That year, it was hot! The sound system worked great, but a keyboard melted and many performers overheated. Even with scorching temps, the 2002 Freedom Fest was bigger and better than the year before!

The fourth year, the committee starting planning right after the last festival ended. They worked year-round to bring in bigger names, better entertainment, and more fun.

And God blessed them abundantly. The weather was a perfect 82 with a light breeze. The music was excellent. The food and the fun tempted 5000 people to come and enjoy the music in the park that day.

The 2003 festival was a huge success, even surpassing the committee's expectations. But the 2004 festival was even bigger and better!

With 2005, we've experienced tremendous growth with a change in venue and the biggest headliners yet!

The word is out. Freedom Fest is quickly becoming well-known in Siouxland and around the country as a great place to see and hear top Christian talent and to experience the joy of fellowshipping with other Christians.

Freedom Fest is bringing people together from all over the Siouxland area to celebrate as a community the relationship we have with our personal Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.

Gullings' dream was to see the people of Siouxland touched by the gospel of Jesus Christ. His dream, shared by many, has become a reality.
Come and share this dream with us!
Come celebrate Freedom Fest!