Springfield's The Block Party is delighted the City of Springfield will honor the 10-year anniversary of the beloved Ken Kesey Mural during the our 6th Annual event on Friday, September 5, in the heart of Historic Downtown Springfield.

“This mural has become a landmark of Springfield’s creative spirit,” said Mayor Sean VanGordon. “Ken Kesey’s legacy is alive and well in this city and it’s thrilling to see it get a fresh coat as we celebrate 10 years of inspiration.” Join us for an evening of public art, community pride, and Kesey-inspired celebration.

Per Elyse Ditzel, Public Information Office at the City, "The two-story mural, located on the east wall of the Odd Fellows Building (home to Plank Town Brewing), was originally painted in 2015 by the Old City Artists. It honors Ken Kesey – a Springfield High School graduate, celebrated author of One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest and Sometimes a Great Notion, and a central figure in American literature and counterculture."

The City has returned the original artists to the mural at 4th and Main for a refresh, with final paint touches happening live during The Block Party 2025.

Block Party-goers should visit the City of Springfield’s booth near the mural to:

• Spin the prize wheel for a chance to win limited-edition Kesey swag, including, t-shirts, stickers, temporary tattoos, and more;
• Learn the story behind the mural’s creation;
• Snap a photo with the refreshed mural to mark this special moment.
  

One Magical Night, Many Years in the Making.

Returning for its 6th year, Springfield's The Block Party 2025 powered by SELCO features live music, local food, craft beverages and family friendly games in historic Downtown Springfield.  For more information on The Block Party powered by SELCO, visit www.springfieldblockparty.com. To learn more about SELCO Community Credit Union, visit www.selco.org.

Main Photo: Julia Reihs, The Register Guard, 2015

Other Photos: The Block Party