The Eighth Annual Dolores River Festival takes place Saturday, June 4, in Joe Rowell Park in Dolores.
Gates open at 10 a.m. There will be activities and live music all day, and food and beverages. The festival, presented by Greater Dolores Action, is a celebration of the Dolores River and the many ways it connects people with their environment and natural resources. The nonprofit Greater Dolores Action allocates a portion of the proceeds to river enhancement and conservation projects.
Festival activities include free raft rides, an inflatable kayak race, the Zukes river dog contest, the infamous crazy costume floating parade, arts and crafts activities presented by the Childrens Kiva, a workshop for teens led by the Flobots band members, the Fabulous Flying Femmes stilt-walkers and aerial acrobatics, and a Story Walk by San Juan Mountains Association featuring the book I Know The River Loves Me. The festival also includes gear, art, clothing and jewelry vendors, information from community organizations, and much more.
Headlining this years festival main stage are the Flobots, an internationally renowned Denver-based band expanding the frontiers of hip-hop. From Albuquerque, Tijerina is a cutting-edge, blues rock band. The Elizabeth Rose Trio includes singer- songwriter Elizabeth Rose, with a band of bass, drums and sax. The African and Latin inspired drumming of Afrobeat Minion will surely get you moving. Russ Chapman will sing and stomp a unique blend of Americana folk and blues tunes. Playing musical interludes on the festival side stage will be an emerging bluegrass band, the River Swimmers, and local favorites such as the Moe Tones, RockSlide and The Lindells. Close the night at the Dolores River Brewerys after-party.
Admission is $10, and free for children 15 and under. Tent camping for $5 per person, and overnight RV parking for $15 per vehicle will be available Saturday night in Joe Rowell Park. Well-behaved dogs on leash are welcome.
Visit www.doloresriverfestival.com for updated festival information or contact Shaine Gans, festival director, at coordinator@doloresriverfestival.com or 759-9817. To sign-up to volunteer, contact Katrina Roberts at volunteer@doloresriverfestival.com or 382-1312. Volunteers receive free admission, a free festival volunteer T-shirt, snacks and a free beverage.