Dominion Energy Riverrock Returns to Brown’s Island for three adventure-filled days this weekend

Dominion Energy Riverrock, the country’s largest outdoor sports and music festival, returns to Richmond from May 16 to 18, taking over Brown’s Island and surrounding areas. Now in its 16th year, the event is organized by Sports Backers and Venture Richmond and showcases the city’s vibrant riverfront, trail systems, and active outdoor culture.

More than 30 participatory events and exhibitions are scheduled over the weekend. Activities include trail running, mountain biking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, slacklining, bouldering, and fishing tournaments. For families and those new to outdoor sports, free Adventure Zones will offer experiences like climbing, skimboarding, and slacklining.

Signature competitions include the always-popular Subaru Ultimate Air Dogs, the Boulder Bash at Kanawha Plaza, and the Cup of the East Kayak Polo Tournament in the canal. Runners can take part in three trail races: the Belle Isle Blitz 5K, James River Scramble 10K, and Bust the Banks Half Marathon. Runners who complete two of the three can join the Trail Takedown challenge. Multi-sport athletes can compete in the James River Gauntlet, a three-day competition that includes trail running, mountain biking, and paddling.

The festival also features a full slate of live music, with concerts on all three days. All performances are free and open to the public.

Friday, May 16:

• 6:30 p.m. – Justin Golden

• 8:00 p.m. – Mountain Grass Unit

Saturday, May 17:

• 1:00 p.m. – For What It’s Worth

• 2:05 p.m. – Sweet Potatoes

• 3:10 p.m. – The Sugar Hollows

• 4:30 p.m. – Oh He Dead

• 6:15 p.m. – Mikaela Davis

• 8:00 p.m. – Andy Frasco & The U.N.

Sunday, May 18:

• 1:00 p.m. – Reggaelizit

• 2:10 p.m. – Dan and the Fam

• 3:30 p.m. – Suggesting Rhythm

Admission to Riverrock is free, though some races and competitions require advance registration and a fee. The event is dog-friendly, and attendees are welcome to bring their pets along for the festivities.

For more information, visit the official Riverrock website here.