Summer Camp underway with ‘great flavor and feel’ before big changes are made

CHILLICOTHE (25News Now) - The 2023 Summer Camp Music Festival is underway May 26-28 at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe, but some key changes are to be announced.

Since 2001, the event has been held at Three Sisters Park in Chillicothe People come from all over the country, and it generally brings about 20,000 people over the three-day run.

Organizers said there will be changes to streamline the event beginning next year, but it will look similar to those in years past.

They said supply chain issues are impacting the move to a new festival name that has been in the works.

“We didn’t feel right keeping it called Summer Camp Music Festival with that 20 years of history and these adjustments we’re planning on making,” said Marketing Director Ian Strasser. “We want people to be able to come in without any expectations and get ready for a brand-new experience.”

One ‘Summer Camper’ says he’s been coming here for 17 years and believes changes to next year’s festival could be good.

“I imagine they’ll put on a cool festival,” said the attendee. “The people that run this festival have done a good job for a long time. I imagine whatever they do, it’s for the best for everybody.”

Ian Strasser said the event will remain at Three Sisters Park in 2024.

Jack Renwick is from Northern Michigan and said this is his first time to Summer Camp. He added that he’s been to many music festivals, but he already feels a good vibe from the staff and the music.

“Just being able to keep the same traditions and right ideas going that we people want in this area to continue with, and not just subside and let it go is big,” said first-time attendee Renwick.

Normal’s American Idol finalist Leah Marlene will perform Sunday at 3 p.m.

Strasser said more details will be provided about the future of the event and specific changes after this year’s festival.