To millions across the country the onset of summer leads many to attend mass group gatherings at state fairs, theme parks, and summer concerts like Ozzfest or the Warped Tour.
Some don’t mind traveling to distant parts of the U.S. to be a part of these exciting annual events with numerous tents, vendors and acts.
If a good time is what you’re after to beat summertime boredom, start planning a road trip for a spiritually enlightening upcoming event.
This summer, for the first time, a unique music and arts festival of worship, missions and reconciliation is set to occur in the home of the blues, and birthplace of rock `n’ roll, Memphis.
One Festival, presented by Team One Productions, will be a unique gathering of people of all races, cultures, ages and denominations and seeks to unite everyone in enjoying their diversity, to know God and enjoy him, and to let worship of him permeate every aspect of their lives.
One of the goals is to help foster a world consciousness for missions, and a consciousness for social justice.
“We want people to see how exciting missions really are, and have worship be an overall part of the festival,” said Jane Hillis, office manager of Team One Productions.
One Festival is a nationally promoted event and expects to have attendees from all over the U.S. as well as from overseas.
One Festival and its presenter, Team One productions, are both non-profit.
All proceeds, after expenses, will be donated to local and international outreach programs and charities. The people associated with running the event are not involved in it for personal gain.
“We just want to do what God has called us to do with the resources we have,” Hillis said.
The festival will be centered around different “villages,” where attendees will gather together in common interest and purpose.
The arts village will include an artist’s gallery where work will be juried and enjoyed; an artists studio; and places for children to express themselves through art. Spoken word will also be experienced as a form of expression through poetry, storytelling, improvisational theatre, singer/song writers and spoken word pperformances.
The music village will have a mainstage, hilltop one stage and hilltop two stage, that will showcase music of every form and style, from classical to gospel, to hardcore, to folk, to rock, to rap.
Over 45 musical acts are scheduled to perform. Artists include Jennifer Knapp, Five Iron Frenzy, P.O.D., Bleach, Ace Troubleshooter and many more.
In addition to these art and musical attractions, One Festival will offer a variety of workshops, speakers, seminars, and forums. An interactive session for teens and youth groups called One Camp will be held, as well as Extreme Games.
Other areas of rational discourse will include Kid’s Town and the Global & Life Issues Village.
For more information about One Festival, including ticket prices and site camping info, log onto the Website at www.onefestival.com or call them toll-free at 1-866-ONEFEST.

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