Hope in the Park Ends 2025 Concert Series With Joy, Faith, and Community Spirit
WAUSAU, WI — The Hope in the Park concert series concluded its fifth year on Sunday at Marathon Park, drawing crowds from across Marathon County for a free day of faith, fellowship, and live music. Organized by Christian radio station 89Q, the family-friendly event once again proved its importance to the local community.
A Headliner With Heart
This year’s highlight was a performance by Anne Wilson, the Christian pop-country artist whose songs of hope and resilience have resonated with audiences nationwide. Her uplifting set drew attendees to their feet, singing and clapping along in a spirit-filled atmosphere that perfectly captured the event’s mission.
For many in Wausau, the chance to hear a nationally recognized Christian artist perform for free in their own community was a meaningful gift. “For Wausau to host one big artist, a Christian artist, here in our backyard… means a lot to us,” said Coy Sawyer, general manager of 89Q.
Volunteers and Community Support
Behind the scenes, more than 150 volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure the day’s success. From organizing games to managing food vendors, their efforts brought together families and neighbors for an afternoon of joy.
Sawyer noted that the event has become a tradition for local families: “It starts for the kids, kind of a tradition. They know in August they’re going to have this great event. It’s all about Christ. They get to have all these great kids’ games and free stuff from vendors.”
Food trucks and sponsor vendors added to the festive atmosphere, making Hope in the Park both a concert and a community gathering.
A Day of Giving Back
Beyond the music and activities, the event raised $3,000 for the Community Action Partnership Pantry, which provides essential support for low-income residents in the area. This charitable component reflects the festival’s mission of combining entertainment with tangible acts of service.
Looking Toward 2026
Though this year’s event has wrapped, Sawyer hinted that organizers already have a headliner in mind for 2026. “Let’s just say our hope is it’s one artist we had originally, and we’ll just leave it at that,” he teased, leaving the community buzzing with anticipation.
With smiles, music, and a spirit of unity filling Marathon Park, the 2025 Hope in the Park concert proved once again that faith and community can transform a summer afternoon into something truly memorable. For more updates on Christian festivals, family-friendly events, and live concert coverage, follow ChicagoMusicGuide.com.