Join us at the 35th Annual

Rappahannock Riverfest

September 20th | 3 – 8 PM | McDaniel Property adjacent to City Dock

years celebrating Riverfest

Riverfest is FOR’s annual crab feast fundraiser. With live music, auctions, drinks, and DELICIOUS FOOD (yes, we mean the crabs), this is one event you don’t want to miss.

Sponsorships are Available

With a wide range of sponsorships and benefits, your business or group can enjoy Riverfest and make a more significant impact for the Rappahannock River.

SPONSORSHIPS AVAILABLE

TICKETS FOR PURCHASE : JULY 15

GOAL OF RIVERFEST

Protecting the Rappahannock can't be done alone. We need your help to fund all the work that is done on behalf of the river. Riverfest is our signature fundraiser, ensuring that our organization is able to continue running as smoothly as the river itself.

Sponsorships Available

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Title Sponsor - $10,000

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Great Blue Heron Sponsor - $7,500

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River Defender Sponsor - $5,000

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River Guardian Sponsor - $2,500

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River Champion Sponsor - $1,500

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River Family Sponsor - $750

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River Friend Sponsor - $400

Learn mOre

100% of Donations Fund a Healthy & Scenic Rappahannock River

Join us in advocating for smart river policy, restoring our watershed, and educating the river stewards of tomorrow.

Donate Now

FAQ's

Rappahannock Riverfest 2025

Q: What does Riverfest support?	We’ve been hosting Riverfest for 35 years. It is our signature fundraiser, and all the money raised directly supports our mission to be a voice and active force for a healthy and scenic Rappahannock River.
Q: What should I bring to Riverfest?	Your Driver’s License: Due to our ABC License, we are required to check all attendees’ IDs to verify they are of legal drinking age. Comfortable Apparel: Our event is outside, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended. Your favorite giving method! This is a fundraiser with raffles and an auction where you can win some amazing prizes AND support the Rappahannock River.
Q: Can I bring my children?	Children are not encouraged to come to the event. If you choose to bring your child, they must have a ticket unless they are under 1 year old.
Q: Can I bring my pet?	No. We know how much you love your furry, scaly, or feathery friends, but for the health and safety of the event, we ask you not to bring your pets. ADA-certified service animals are the only exception. SEE SERVICE DOG DEFINITION HERE
Q: I can’t find my ticket!	No worries! We will have staff and volunteers able to pull up any missing tickets at the entrance.
Q: Who do I contact for help?	Contact Cat Carter at cat.carter@riverfriends.org \| 540-373-3448 x 152 if you have questions about tickets, sponsorship, auction or raffle item donations, or general Riverfest inquiries.
Q: Where should I park?	The VRE G & H Lot (FREE). We will have shuttles running continuously. Or consider taking a rideshare! ** If you or a member of your party needs to be dropped off at the Riverfest site location due to age, mobility, or another accessibility reason, please tell the parking attendant at the top of the city dock hill. They will allow you to drop off that member of your party and 1 guest to assist them.
Q: How is FOR making Riverfest a “green” event?	FOR is committed to eliminating single-use plastic at Riverfest. Dishes, flatware, cups, and food scraps will all be composted. All other items will be recyclable (such as soda cans and water). There will also be an option to purchase reusable wine or beer cups!
Q: What happens if there is a low regional crab count?	Rappahannock Riverfest has always been the region’s best crab feast, supplied by local and regional crab availability. Should the crab population not increase significantly by the event, a limited amount of crabs and/or alternatives such as fried catfish and oysters will be available, in addition to the BBQ provided.