‘I never dreamed it would be this big’: Mahomet gets ready for music festival

WESTVILLE, Ill. (WCIA) — The village of Mahomet is getting ready for one of its biggest events of the year this weekend. But before all the fun starts, organizers say to beware of an online scam.

Main street is almost ready for the Mahomet Music Festival. The event has been a staple for decades, but organizers are breathing new life into it.

“Some of the new stuff is actually some of the drinks we’re going to have at the Lions beer garden is we’re going to do Carbliss drinks and try to make a different variety of alcohol,” said David Parsons, chairman of the event.

Chairman of the event Davis Parsons said he expects 2,000 people to attend the event, which is more than just concerts; people can enjoy food, carnival rides and more.

“I never dreamed it would be this big to the village,” Parsons said. “You know, where else can you have a small town and bring top-tier talent in? That’s kind of cool.”

People like Tyler Laroe are a big part of why the music festival continues to run every year.

“I look forward to like, the concert on Saturday night and meet the singer and all of them, and just help out as much as I can, set up everything,” Laroe said.

Laroe is part of the public works crew making sure everything is in order. That means he’ll have to work this weekend.

“It sucks, but I’ll get over it,” Laroe said. “I’m really looking forward to seeing everybody up here.”

For people who are planning to go, Parsons said to watch out for scammers. People have been posting fake tickets for the event on social media. But part of what makes this event so popular is that it’s free to attend.

“We don’t charge for anything, we charge for a VIP tent. But actually, sales for that closed at noon,” Parsons said.

He said the music fest is fun for the entire family whether you’re coming from near or far.

“Also it just gives the people around Mahomet something to come to that’s right here in their backyard,” Parsons said.

Organizers said they have some big names performing at this year’s event like Drew Baldridge and Dylan Scott. They’re also suggesting that if you’re someone who purchased a fake ticket, contact law enforcement.

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