Summer Heats Up with Faith-Defining Music Events

Every season has its charm, however there's just something about summertime that brings a vibrant energy out of all of us.

With beach time and vacations on your radar, there is one thing you shouldn't forget: music festivals.

The 2015 KingsFest recently took place near Richmond, Virginia, with top artists performing, including LeCrae, Jeremy Camp, and For King and Country.

For many, Christian music festivals can be pivotal moments in defining faith through the message and community experienced through the music.

"I grew up going to Christian concerts," song artist Matthew West shared. "If you were to ask me poignant moments of my faith, those Christian concerts were defining moments that really brought me closer to Christ."

"Honestly these shows are what inspired me to chase music and chase the Lord," Jason Roy, with Building 429, told CBN News's Angela Zatopek.

For King and Country performed at KingsFest. The group recently won a nationwide vote for "Artist of the Year" at the 2015 KLOVE Radio Fan Awards hosted by actor Kirk Cameron and Elizabeth Hasslebeck.

During the Award show, lead singer Luke Smallbone gave an emotional acceptance speech about his recent battle with ulcerative colotis cancer.

"I've been battling illness for three years now. Then a year and a half ago, I got really really sick," he shared. "You have to ask yourself some questions. What do I do with this situation? I never expected to be 26 years old and so sick, but I am going to trust God in this situation."

On a lighter note, there's one thing you also cannot escape at festivals: food trucks. CBN News Angela Zatopek asked some artists, "If you're going to take the plunge, what would it be?"

"I discovered cheesecake on a stick and it just rocked my world, I had a vision of what heaven might be like, unlimited cheesecake on a stick," West said.

Here' a list of a few upcoming festival events for you and your family to check out:

OUTCRY Tour
Featured Artists: Hillsong United, Lauren Daigle, Kari Jobe, Jesus Culture, and more.

NEWSBOYS
Gods Not Dead Tour.

Jesus Culture Conference
July 30-August 1.

JoyFEST
July 18 in Richmond, Virginia.

CREATION FEST
- Lexington, Kentucky July 8-11
- Twin Cities, July 16-18
- Tri Cities Washington, July 30-August 1

Lifest 2015
July 9-12 in Oshkosh, WI
Tens of thousands from around the country are expected to gather for the 17th annual four-day event.
 
Among the more than 100 artists, performers and speakers are Skillet, Newsboys, Chris Tomlin, Matthew West, Jeremy Camp, and many others.