2/16/2026 - High Point Market

HPMA Reveals Sunday Concert Performance for Spring Market

HIGH POINT, N.C., Feb. 16, 2026 — The High Point Market Authority (HPMA) announces this season’s Sunday evening concert performance featuring Kool & The Gang for its Center Stage venue at High Point Market, on April 26.

With early hits like “Jungle Boogie” and “Summer Madness,” Kool & The Gang has produced recognizable tunes like “Get Down On It” and “Celebration.” Among its many awards and recognitions, the band has received two GRAMMY Awards, seven American Music Awards and a display in the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of African American History. With a 50th anniversary celebration in 2019, Kool & The Gang’s accolades also include a place in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and an induction into the Library of Congress National Recording Registry for the timeless classic, “Celebration.”

In 1964, Ronald Bell and his brother, Robert “Kool” Bell, joined Jersey City neighborhood friends Robert “Spike” Mickens, Dennis “Dee Tee” Thomas, Ricky Westfield, George Brown, and Charles Smith to create a unique musical blend of jazz, soul and funk. At first calling themselves the Jazziacs, the band went through various names – The New Dimensions, The Soul Town Band, Kool & the Flames – before settling on their famous moniker. Kool & the Gang officially launched in 1969.

In partnership with HPMA, participating sponsors include High Point Market exhibitors Schonbek and Varaluz.

“We’re delighted to welcome Kool & The Gang to the main stage at Spring Market,” says Tammy Covington, HPMA president and CEO. “Market guests are in for a treat with this night of entertainment from an iconic group.”

A valid Spring 2026 Market pass is required for admission to the Center Stage area located between the Showplace building and the Transportation Terminal. Due to limited capacity, entry will be permitted on a first-come, first-served basis. Early entry for buyers begins at 6:15 p.m. For all other passholders, doors will open at 6:30 p.m. for the 7 p.m. concert. Complimentary food and beverages will be provided. Guests under the age of 15 will not be admitted.

Market registration is offered at no charge to qualified U.S. and international buyers—including retailers, dealers, and professional interior designers—as well as to press, exhibitor representatives, and students. A registration fee applies to all other industry professionals.

All qualified registrants will receive a Market pass, which is required for entry to all buildings and showrooms within the 13-block Market District.

To learn more about Center Stage programming at Spring Market, visit the High Point Market website.

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About the High Point Market Authority
The High Point Market Authority is the official sponsor and organizer of the High Point Market in High Point, N.C. Featuring an extensive selection of exhibitors spanning every category, style and price point, and attracting tens of thousands of visitors from more than 100 countries twice each year, High Point Market is the driving force of the home furnishings industry. Find High Point Market online at highpointmarket.org, and follow on social media using the hashtag #HPMKT.

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