ENTERTAINMENT 52 JUNE 2025 www.goodnewsfl.org Good News • South Florida Edition WILLIAMSTOWN, Ky. — The final lineup for the world’s largest Christian music festival, the 40 Days of Christian Music at the Ark Encounter, has been announced, promising 40 days of powerful performances by more than 150 musicians. This year’s festival will run from July 29 to September 6 in Northern Kentucky, south of Cincinnati, and will include concerts held at both the Ark Encounter and its sister attraction, the Creation Museum. Christian music’s brightest stars The event, now in its fifth year, will feature some of the biggest names in Christian music. Five-time Grammy-nominated singer and songwriter Matthew West, who has 37 number one songs on his resume, joins the festival for the first time. Other artists set to take the stage include Crowder, Big Daddy Weave and Jordan Feliz. Additional notable performers representing Southern Gospel, Bluegrass Gospel, Faith Country and more include The Isaacs, Karen Peck & New River and Jason Crabb. “All concerts held at the two venues during the 40 Days of Christian Music festival are free with paid admission to the attraction,” the Ark Encounter said in a statement. The Ark Encounter itself includes a life-size 510-foot-long Noah’s Ark, a sight that has drawn visitors from around the world. Ken Ham, Founder and CEO of Answers in Genesis, the parent organization of the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum, shared his excitement about this year’s festival. “Our plans are to continue to build this event and be a blessing and encouragement to attendees for many years to come,” Ham said. “Millions of people across America love the various styles of Christian music we offer. Abraham Productions, the Ark Encounter and the Creation Museum present a unique combination of award-winning groups.” Ray Flynn, President and CEO of Abraham Productions, Inc., also expressed his gratitude for the ongoing partnership and the festival’s impact. “Once again we’re extremely honored and thankful to have the opportunity to partner with the Ark Encounter and Creation Museum in presenting another mega Christian Music festival at these popular family destinations,” Flynn said. Last year, attendance records were shattered during many evenings at the 40 Days of Christian Music festival. Some concerts filled the 2,300-seat Answers Center, while outdoor musical events next to the massive ship are also planned this summer. Ham added, “Festivalgoers can tour the life-size Ark, explore the beautiful grounds, take their children or grandchildren to the playground and large carousel, enjoy the VR Experience, meet the animals in our growing zoo and more.” Expanding Christian-themed experiences Following the popularity of the Truth Traveler Virtual Reality experience at the Ark Encounter, Answers in Genesis, along with the creators of the Ark’s VR attraction, Mindscape Creative, is expanding this immersive experience to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, and Branson, Missouri. “Truth Traveler will transport guests back in time, immersing them in pivotal moments in biblical history with a custom-animated 5D Virtual Reality ride, complete with motion benches and haptics for a full sensory experience,” the press release stated. “I’m excited that once again we are stepping out in faith to construct two special Biblethemed attractions, this time building them where the people already are,” Ham said. “What a unique opportunity to impact guests with truths from the Bible.” The Pigeon Forge attraction, being built on a major highway leading to the famed Dollywood attraction, is slated to open in early June. The Branson site—at the former Andy Williams Moon River Theater—will open its doors in July. A top destination for families and faith The Ark Encounter has been voted the No. 1 Best Religious Museum by USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards, with the Creation Museum finishing a close second. Together, they continue to be top family-friendly destinations in the United States, drawing guests from dozens of countries. Tickets for the Ark Encounter and more details about the festival, including the full lineup of performing artists and guest speakers, can be found at www.40DaysOfChristianMusic.com or by calling 800-721-2298. For more information on the two attractions, visit www.creationmuseum.org and www.arkencounter.com. 40 Days of Christian Music: World’s Largest Christian Music Festival Returns to Ark Encounter Crowds gather for 40 Days of Christian Music. Matthew West The Ark Encounter in Williamstown, Ky. Crowder returns to the stage.
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