Located in the heart of The Emerald Triangle in Northern California, along the redwood-lined banks of the Eel River, resides a legendary annual celebration of reggae music and counter-culture—Reggae on the River. The festival that started from humble beginnings spanned over three and half decades and is the forerunner of American music festivals. Coming off a five-year hiatus, this beloved gathering needs your support to keep the irie vibes alive for many more decades to come.
By Mia Moore
Courtesy Reggae on the River
The first seeds of Reggae on the River were sown in 1983 by the Mateel Community Center, a local nonprofit organization dedicated to cultivating arts, culture, and social services in rural Southern Humboldt County. What began as a fundraiser to rebuild the Mateel after a devastating fire soon sprouted into a full-fledged music festival – a first of its kind. The inaugural event, held at French’s Camp, featured an array of local and international acts. The festival’s early success laid the foundation for an annual tradition that would grow to become one of the most beloved reggae gatherings in the world.
Evolution and Expansion
Over the years, Reggae on the River evolved from a single-day grassroots fundraiser into a sprawling, three-day gathering of peace, unity and a damn good time. The festival’s lineup expanded to include international reggae stars, showcasing the genre’s rich diversity and global reach. Artists like The Itals, The Meditations, Toots and the Maytals, Jimmy Cliff, and Burning Spear (just to name a few) have all graced the stage, bringing their unique rhythms and messages of unity to diverse crowds from around the globe.
Your Support is Crucial
Reggae on the River is more than just a music festival; it’s a testament to the power of music to bring people together, transcend boundaries, resist corrupt government, and foster a sense of community. The festival’s idyllic setting, with the Eel River as its backdrop, creates a unique atmosphere where attendees can connect with nature, each other, and the soul-soothing rhythms of reggae music. The spirit of the festival has remained intact, thanks to the unwavering dedication of its organizers, volunteers, and the passionate reggae community.
Today, this cherished festival is at a critical crossroads. Since 2018, ROTR has been on hiatus, grappling with economic pressures and the collapse of the local cannabis market – the region’s main industry. Now, the next generation has taken the reins, determined to revive this iconic event. Efforts are well underway to revitalize the festival, with a renewed focus on sustainability, community involvement, and preserving the festival’s rich heritage. However, the future of Reggae on the River, like every event, depends on ticket sales.
Keep the Legacy Alive
Reggae is a celebration of more than just music; it’s a celebration of life, love, and the enduring power of community. From its humble beginnings to its status as a global reggae institution, the festival has brought joy, inspiration, and a sense of belonging to countless individuals. By attending the festival and spreading the word, you can help ensure that this beloved tradition continues for decades to come.
Courtesy Reggae on the River/David Wilson
For fans across California who have never been to Reggae on the River, this is your moment. Buy your tickets and pack a bag for a weekend filled with world-class reggae music, paired with the best weed in the world and set against the stunning backdrop of the Eel River. Picture yourself dancing under the stars, smoking chronic ganja, surrounded by a community of like-minded souls who share your love for the music and the culture.
Join us at Reggae on the River and be part of something truly special. Single-day or weekend passes are available HERE.