dominion energy riverrock opens registration, announces music lineup for 2026 festival, and highlights impact of the brown’s island improvement project

national touring acts and regional favorites headline richmond’s signature outdoor sports and music celebration, may 15-17

RICHMOND, VA – Dominion Energy Riverrock, the nation’s premier outdoor sports and music festival, returns to Richmond’s downtown riverfront May 15–17 to celebrate its 18th year of adventure, competition, and live music along the James River. Event organizers Sports Backers and Venture Richmond today announced the 2026 music lineup and full event schedule, with registration now open for all participatory sports at riverrockrva.com.

While construction continues on the Brown’s Island Improvement Project, Dominion Energy Riverrock will shift its 2026 footprint along the surrounding riverfront corridor, activating Tredegar Street, Tredegar Green, and adjacent downtown spaces. This exciting evolution makes way for a major new addition: the debut of the Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront as the festival’s home for live music. This state-of-the-art venue will seamlessly connect with the outdoor festival experience, framing performances against the James River and Richmond skyline. Eleven bands will take the stage throughout the weekend, with all concerts remaining free and open to the public.

The refreshed footprint reflects Dominion Energy Riverrock’s forward momentum while staying true to its roots as the nation’s premier outdoor sports and music festival. The 2026 lineup will feature a dynamic mix of local, regional, and nationally recognized acts, striking a balance between celebrating Richmond’s vibrant music scene and elevating the weekend with top-tier talent. Anchored by the Allianz Amphitheater, Dominion Energy Riverrock will continue delivering hands-on adventure, elite competition, live music, and an unmatched riverfront atmosphere — all uniquely Richmond.

“Every year, one of my favorite moments from Dominion Energy Riverrock weekend is seeing the massive crowd gathered for our headliners—it’s an incredible sight,” said Meghan Keogh, Event Director for Dominion Energy Riverrock. “For 2026, we’re excited to collaborate with the team at the Allianz Amphitheater at Riverfront and bring live music into this new space along the river. Working together this year allows us to create a concert experience that feels fresh and uniquely connected to downtown and the James River. It’s a special opportunity to showcase what’s possible when partners come together to elevate the festival experience.”

Live music kicks off Friday evening at 6:30 p.m. with Richmond’s own Bucko, whose “honky-tonk-goof-rock” sound has built a loyal local following. Headlining Friday night is Clay Street Unit, the Denver-based band blending Rocky Mountain spirit with Appalachian influences, bluegrass textures, and Americana storytelling.

Saturday’s lineup highlights rising talent and regional standouts. Dhemo opens the afternoon at 1:00pm, followed by Cassidy Snider & The Wranglers with their acoustic blend of country, blues, and ragtime at 2:00pm. Local favorite Willie Williams brings blues-driven vocals to the stage at 3:10pm, and Virginia’s Wolph delivers classic Southern rock energy at 4:30pm.

Saturday evening elevates the momentum with Philadelphia’s SNACKTIME at 6:15 p.m., known for their infectious fusion of soul, funk, R&B, and hip-hop. Circles Around The Sun closes the night at 8:00 p.m., offering a dynamic, instrumental rock performance rooted in alternative and indie influences.

Sunday’s performances feature Jack Stepanian, Richmond-based Deau Eyes, and Harrisonburg, VA natives Illiterate Light, closing out the weekend on a high note. All performances at Dominion Energy Riverrock remain free and open to the public.

“Dominion Energy Riverrock is more than a festival; it’s a statement about who we are as a river city,” said Stephen Lecky, Director of Events at Venture Richmond. “Each year, we work to raise the bar, whether that’s through nationally touring musicians, elite outdoor competition, or new ways for the community to experience the riverfront. Even as Brown’s Island undergoes an exciting transformation, the spirit of Riverrock remains the same—bold, energetic, and uniquely Richmond.”

The festival launches Friday, May 15, with a full slate of participatory sporting events, including trail running, mountain biking, yoga, fishing competitions, and more. Throughout the weekend, athletes and spectators alike will experience the James River and Richmond’s extensive trail network in action.

Signature competitions return, including the Subaru Ultimate Air Dogs (all three days), the high-intensity Boulder Bash and Boulder Blitz, and kayaking and SUP events showcasing the river’s legendary Class III and IV rapids. Adventure Zones will once again offer free, hands-on experiences for adults and kids eager to try Dominion Energy Riverrock sports firsthand.

Both the popular Dominion Energy Riverrock Photo Contest and Video Contest will return for 2026, inviting creators to once again capture the energy of the festival. Cash prizes of up to $450 are up for grabs. Full contest details and registration information are available at riverrockrva.com

Dominion Energy Riverrock showcases Richmond as a premier outdoor adventure destination, highlighting its unique riverfront, world-class downtown trail system, and exhilarating Class III & IV whitewater rapids. This nationally recognized festival attracts outdoor enthusiasts from across the country, drawing attention to Richmond’s vibrant recreation scene and positioning the city among top outdoor adventure hubs in the U.S. Since its inception, Dominion Energy Riverrock has fostered a deeper appreciation for outdoor recreation throughout the Richmond region and beyond. For more information, visit riverrockrva.com or follow @RiverrockRVA on social media.

Dominion Energy Riverrock Music Lineup – Friday, May 15

Time	Band
6:30 – 7:30 p.m.	Bucko
8:00 – 9:30 p.m.	Clay Street Unit

Saturday, May 16

Time	Band
1:00 – 1:45 p.m.	Dhemo
2:05 – 2:55 p.m.	Cassidy Snider & The Wranglers
3:10 – 4:10 p.m.	Willie Williams
4:30 – 5:45 p.m.	Wolph
6:15 – 7:30 p.m.	SNACKTIME
8:00 – 9:30 p.m.	Circles Around The Sun

Sunday, May 17

Time	Band
1:00 – 1:50 p.m.	Jack Stepanian
2:10 – 3:10 p.m.	Deau Eyes
3:30 – 5:00 p.m.	Illiterate Light

Dominion Energy Riverrock is open to the public and is free to all spectators. For event registration and further information about Dominion Energy Riverrock 2026 please visit riverrockrva.com.