Grand Rapids Riverfest

02/27/2026

After a lot of thought and consideration, Grand Rapids Riverfest will take a break in 2026. This pause reflects KAXE’s financial realities and the complexities of putting on an event of this scale - Not a lack of love for Riverfest or the people who make it what it is.
 
We’re incredibly grateful to the artists, volunteers, attendees, sponsors, production team, community groups, Grand Rapids Area Library, and the City of Grand Rapids who have made Riverfest such a special gathering these past five years.
 
Every year has brought its own kind of special sauce, and we’re actively working toward bringing that magic back. We’re looking ahead to 2027, exploring new partnerships, and excited about what’s next.
 
In the meantime, support your local festivals and shows. These community-grown events continue because people like you show up for them.

Find a full story and photo gallery from over the years at KAXE.org.

10/01/2025

The radio you need is not guaranteed.

For the first time in almost 60 years, public media in the United States is without federal support. This doesn’t just impact radio. It impacts artists, labels, promoters, music and the festivals you love.

Here’s how you can help:

1. Visit www.kaxe.org to donate directly.
2. If you’re able, adopt a station hit hardest by funding losses via www.adoptastation.org
3. Share and boost why radio and KAXE and Grand Rapids Riverfest matters to you!

Every action counts. So even if you can’t donate, you can do something just as powerful: spread the word.

We’re standing together to say public radio matters. Your support keeps it alive.

09/30/2025

❤ Big thanks for the support from 2024 Riverfest performers Corey Medina & Brothers!

09/18/2025

The people were amazing, the weather was questionable and the music was incredible. Take a look back at Grand Rapids Riverfest 2025 through the lens!


courtney barnett | Margo Price | Jeremie Albino | Alan Sparhawk-Low

09/07/2025

Riverfest 2025 ended with melting faces under a full moon - what a show!

Thanks to all who came out this year! We had a blast and hope you did too.

09/07/2025

What a way to say good night! courtneybarnett embodied Minnesota spirit in a T-shirt at 48 degrees and melted our faces right off. We wouldn’t have wanted it any other way! Good night everyone, thanks for making another Grand Rapids Riverfest successful 🎆

09/07/2025

Margo, Margo, Margo — how do we love thee? Let us count the ways! missmargoprice made us swoon. We won’t let the bastards get us down ❤️
📸 libraryoflorie & weisguyimages

09/06/2025

What a performance by — it only left us wanting more! And the brief rain shower left us with a spectacular double rainbow to boot. There is just something magical about our little local festival, I tell ya. ✨
📸 weisguyimages / libraryoflorie

09/06/2025

Alan Sparhawk ( lowtheband ) set us on an amazing path for the day with his killer opening set! Enjoy these amazing shots from libraryoflorie and weisguyimages

09/06/2025

09/05/2025

One of our fabulous vendors you'll see tomorrow at Grand Rapids Riverfest!

We’ll see you at tomorrow!! Join us for brunch in house tomorrow before you head down! 🎸🥁🥂