Carbondale names stage at new downtown venue after musician Robbie Stokes

FOX23 News at 9 p.m.

CARBONDALE, Ill. (KBSI) — The Carbondale City Council has voted to name the permanent stage at the city’s new downtown events venue the Robbie Stokes Memorial Stage, honoring the late musician and sound engineer who helped shape the local music community.

The venue itself will be known as the New Era Events Plaza and is located at 200 S. Washington St., between East Main and East Walnut streets.

Robbie Stokes, who died in May 2023, was known for mentoring musicians and engineering numerous live performances in the area. City officials said his work influenced generations of artists and audiences in Carbondale.

“Robbie Stokes played an important role in building Carbondale’s music culture,” City Manager Stan Reno said. “Naming the stage in his honor recognizes the impact he had on local musicians and ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire performances and community gatherings for years to come.”

Phase 1 of the New Era Events Plaza has been completed and includes a permanent performance stage and a large open lawn designed to host concerts, festivals and other community events.

Planning for Phase 2 is underway and is expected to move into the bidding process soon. The next phase will include construction of a market activity pavilion, permanent restroom facilities, ADA-accessible parking and additional infrastructure to support larger regional performances and ticketed events.

City officials say the fully completed venue is expected to serve as a central gathering space for live entertainment, community celebrations and cultural events in downtown Carbondale.

For more information, contact Public Relations Officer Eva Fisher at 618-713-0711 or efisher@carbondaleil.gov.