GRAND RAPIDS — Despite a downpour during Jeremie Albino's set, the 5th annual Grand Rapids Riverfest went off without a hitch.
Capturing a strong sense of community at an event on the scale of Grand Rapids Riverfest isn't easy, but when it works, it's magic. From the business supporters, vendors, collaborators and attendees, to the setting and incredible music, the festival was once again an intimate celebration in northern Minnesota.
Following the rain, a perfect full double rainbow appeared in the sky, and nearly in unison, the "oohing" and "aahing" as audience members pulled out their phones. The skies were once again bright when a full moon rose to complement Courtney Barnett's ripping headliner set. Northern Minnesota, now you're just showing off.
The day began with a wild ride of a set from Alan Sparhawk, who was joined by Eric Pollard (Actual Wolf), Cyrus Sparhawk and Dave Carroll (Trampled by Turtles). Jeremie Albino hopped up next with his incredible band, providing endless energy and charisma to get us through the rain.
Margo Price, along with an all-star band, debuted songs from her brand new album, Hard Headed Woman. She covered many fan favorites from her catalogue and ended her set by throwing roses out to the crowd. Courtney Barnett played all the hits alongside her bandmates Stella Mozgawa (Warpaint) and Bones Sloane — a trio that wowed the crowd, leading them to walk out of the venue with melted faces. Whoever says rock and roll is dead has clearly not seen Courtney Barnett perform.
Music
"Hard Headed Woman" by Margo Price is KAXE's Album of the Week for Sept. 1-7, 2025.
Photographers Lorie Shaull and Jordan Weis (Weisguy Images) captured the heart of Riverfest: the music, the crowd and the atmosphere that made it unforgettable.
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A double rainbow over Grand Rapids Riverfest 2025
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A young Riverfest fan with her rose from Margo Price.
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