Riverside Indie Fest was conceived in the spring of 2025 with the goal of fostering a music scene in the village of Riverside, Rhode Island. Home to the beautiful Crescent Park, festival founders Paul Mendence and Austin Crevier saw potential to take the great music happening all over the bi-state area in small clubs and basements out into the spotlight of the broader community. 

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In the summer of 2025, the team of two had no idea what they were getting into. With the festival date looming over their heads, they kept their noses down and continued to learn everything they could about how to throw a music festival. After posting to social media and racking up almost 50,000 views, they knew they had to pull through. After many in the community offered what they knew, their advice, and their help, the day had come.

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The vendors and bands had taken a big risk on these festival first timers, but what a day it was. The weather couldn't have been more perfect and the vibes were excellent. Local singer-songwriters Lizard Kid kicked off the day with an acoustic set. What followed was an amazing lineup of local rock bands. Sue's Garage, Domestics with Paulie, The Curlies, The Benji's, Marble House, Another One Down!, and Dred Buffalo. 

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The amazing local and unique set of vendors helped tie in the whole day. Hauscall Studios, Pop-Up PVD, School of Rock, and others are just some examples of the local community coming together for something special.

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The photographers and videographers that gave their time to the bands and vendors to capture all the special moments on film are a testament to the passion of the local scene. MJPhotography with LET ME KNOW Magazine and HMP Film were shooting photos all day. Nicinematics VinVFX offered their film from the day as well. 

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​​​​The core goals of Riverside Indie Fest are to support local music and artists and  make the community more accessible to anyone who may not have had access otherwise.

 

Riverside Indie fest has and always will be free for anyone to experience. Come join us on September 5th 2026. We will build it, all you have to do is rock. We'll see you soon.

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​​​​​​​For more up to date information make sure to follow our Instagram and Facebook event pages. Also keep a lookout on our Youtube channel for footage from 2025.