Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the day.
A family-friendly music festival featuring 12 live acts, food, drinks, and a laid-back atmosphere.
May Jam is a benefit concert supporting The Downbeat Foundation.
Expanding access to music education for students who might not otherwise have the opportunity to play.
Music builds confidence, discipline, and community.
Every ticket helps fund drum lessons, instruments, and instruction for students with financial need.
Emily's Toybox 
The Syn D'Cats 
The Bad Toupees 
The Little Brother Band 
Brandon Kisner 
Jason Carst 
Dreading Monday
BECOME a 
SPONSOR
Legacy Sponsors
AVAILABLE
Headline Sponsors
AVAILABLE
Rhythm Sponsors
SPONSORSHIP LEVELS
May Jam isn’t just another benefit concert — it’s the revival of a hometown tradition. In the early 2000s, Ben Smith and Dreading Monday organized the original May Jam, a grassroots music festival that brought the community together to share a love of live performance.
Sponsorships help fund both May Jam production and year-round student programming through The Downbeat Foundation.
Ways to support include:
- Financial sponsorships
- In-kind donations or auction items
- Creative or experiential partnerships
- On-site presence and community engagement
We aim to make sponsorship feel meaningful, not transactional.
Backbeat Supporter
Best for individuals and small businesses who want to support the mission and be publicly acknowledged.
Groove Partner
Ideal for local businesses and families who want modest visibility and event access.
Rhythm Sponsor
Great for businesses seeking community presence without a heavy sales focus.
Headline Sponsor
Designed for organizations that want both exposure and direct community engagement.
Legacy Sponsor
Reserved for cornerstone supporters who believe deeply in the mission and long-term impact of The Downbeat Foundation.
Frequently asked questions
Got questions? We’ve got you.
The Downbeat Foundation exists to remove barriers for young percussionists by providing drum lessons, drum kits, and access to play. Whether you’re a parent, educator, donor, sponsor, or just curious about our work, this section covers the most common questions about how we operate, who we serve, and how you can get involved. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, we’re always happy to connect.
May Jam is the Downbeat Foundation’s annual live music festival celebrating community, music, and the legacy of our friend Ben, while raising funds to support drum lessons and equipment for students in need.
All net proceeds support The Downbeat Foundation, a Central Pennsylvania nonprofit providing access to percussion education, instruments, and instruction for students with financial need.
Saturday, May 16, 2026 from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Royal Winery, 5790 Devonshire Rd, Harrisburg, PA 17112.
Yes. May Jam is a rain-or-shine event. Please dress accordingly.
Yes. All ages are welcome. Alcohol will be available for purchase for guests 21 and over.
Twelve acts across two stages, featuring acoustic and full-band performances spanning rock, jazz, covers, and original music.
Lawn chairs or blankets, sunscreen, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Yes. Food and beverages will be available for purchase on site.
Yes. On-site parking is available at Royal Winery.
Yes. Tickets are required for entry. We recommend purchasing in advance. If not sold out, limited tickets may be available at the door.
Donations may be tax-deductible as allowed by law. Ticket purchases and sponsorships may include non-deductible portions.
Yes. Multiple sponsorship and partnership opportunities are available.
Information about future performance opportunities will be shared after the 2026 event.
Attend, sponsor, volunteer, or donate to support the Downbeat Foundation.