SOUTH FORK— The annual Rhythms on the Rio rocked throughout the weekend regardless of intermittent rain showers and brought people from all over the nation. South Fork was hopping with crowds, welcoming the first few days of August in style.
The field located just outside of town was packed with RVs, tents and a wide variety of buses while people enjoyed festive music, delicious food and the Rocky Mountain lifestyle. Several vendors were set up inside the festival grounds selling different homemade wares like tie-dye t-shirts, jewelry and much more. Food vendors set up shop and offered delectable entrées and wholesome snacks for guests.
The stage was rocking all weekend long with talents from nationally renowned bands like Fruition, The Travelin’ McCourys, The Dirty Dozen Brass Band, The Larry Keel Experience and many more. Guests danced through rain and shine, filling the area in front of the stage with festive bliss. Children grabbed hula-hoops, swinging to the beats while parents watched from the stands.
“With the caliber of talent we had come this year, we also had a huge influx of people. Tickets sales went through the roof in the last few weeks and the board pulled together and handled the increase the best we could. The board as a whole has such dedication to making this event possible and we wouldn’t have the event we have without their dedication,” said South Fork Music Association (SFMA) Board Member Scott Stecken.
A huge tree at the edge of the Rio Grande River was adorned with sparkling lights and offered the perfect hiding place for the younger crowds, while others played on the sandy shores of the river. Several large dream catchers were once again set up at the back of the festival grounds, one of which offered small pieces of fabric for people to write their hopes and dreams on, then tie to the large dream catcher.
“We received so many compliments from families that attended this year stating that this was a one of a kind environment where they could bring their entire family and share this experience with their children and grandchildren. For us, that means everything. We strive to make this a community-based, family-friendly event for a great cause,” continued Stecken.
There were over 1,800 people in attendance this year and once the numbers are in, the SFMA will be contacting Valley schools to offer their assistance in purchasing musical instruments to students in need. “This event has such a wonderful impact on the community of South Fork and the Valley as a whole. The festival increased by about 40 percent this year, which is amazing. Out of the 17 bands we hosted, 12 of those were nationally touring artists which had a lot to do with our growth. We could not do this without the dedication and passion our board members put into planning this event,” said Stecken.
A huge thank you goes out to all of the volunteers and current board members, Linda Miyaki, Isaac Manobla, Skip Patterson, Paul Orr and Scott Stecken. SFMA is also seeking two new members for those who may be interested. Please contact Stecken at [email protected].