Annual Hawk Fest returns to Downtown St. Joseph

ST JOSEPH, Mo (KQTV) -- The Coleman Hawkins Jazz Society will host its annual Hawk Fest in Downtown St. Joseph.

Coleman Hawkins, "Hawk," was an American jazz saxophonist in the early 1900s. Hawk was born in St. Joseph, Missouri, and became known by many. He later passed away at the age of 64 in 1969, but his reputation lived on.

The Coleman Hawkins Jazz Society was later formed in 1998 as a way to celebrate the musician's life.

Hawk Fest is on Friday, June 12, in Downtown St. Joseph at 7th and Felix streets. The event will start at 5 p.m. and will feature five different jazz bands.

There will be local vendors and food. All ages are welcome to enjoy.

All the proceeds from the event will be donated to St. Joseph Public School's "Music in the Schools" program to provide instruments for youth who may be unable to afford them.