Willamette Riverfest

Scheduled for September 2008, Willamette Riverfest will celebrate the river that runs through the heart of our city. While Portlanders celebrate many things along the river (roses, jazz, beer)—there has not yet been an event that recognizes the river itself. Riverfest will salute the environment, history, and economy that the Willamette has bestowed on Portland.

Put most simply, Riverfest is Portland’s chance to celebrate the River, on the River. True to the green spirit of Portland, beyond a memorable good time, Riverfest will inspire the residents of its watersheds to deepen their connection to, and understanding of, this working river. Riverfest has the potential to become a signature Portland event—a weekend devoted to toasting the end of summer and welcoming the start of a new water year.

Forged from a Portland-style blend of partnerships among multiple City bureaus, environmental organizations, outdoor recreation and tourism associations, and regional businesses, Riverfest will invite Portland’s citizens and visitors to enjoy a weekend of recreation, education, and entertainment right on the river.

Now in the planning stages, Riverfest’s organizers are exploring the possibility of using multiple venues along the waterfront, with discrete activities from place-to-place—perhaps a floating music stage along Waterfront Park, river taxis running people back and forth, hands-on education at Salmon Springs, art at Riverscape, or a candlelight parade over our bridges at dusk.

Riverfest may be the first organized opportunity for Portlanders to act on the sentiments they recently expressed in VisionPDX: “…a vibrant Willamette River is a hub of community activity.”

Organizers are currently pooling resources to hire an event coordinator to refine the concept and secure sponsors. River Renaissance and Parks and Recreation are participating in the organizing workgroup.