Astoria, Ore. – The waterfront of Pier 39 in Astoria was abuzz with excitement as approximately 100 van enthusiasts gathered for the third annual Rigs and Reggae event, a four-day celebration of reggae music, camping, and camaraderie. Co-hosted by Pino's Adventures and founded by Christine Coleman and Peter Perales, the event, which ran from August 27 to August 30, offered a unique blend of music and nomadic lifestyle.
The event drew a diverse crowd, with attendees ranging from their 20s to 70s and beyond. It was a gathering of like-minded individuals who share a passion for the freedom that comes with a nomadic lifestyle, often facilitated by their vans. For some, like Coleman and Perales, this means balancing a full-time job with the joy of exploring the open road in their Storyteller Overland van. For others, like 75-year-old Babba Gi, it's a full-time commitment to life on the road, living in a Sprinter van that has become his home away from home.
Gi, who hails from Ealing, an area near London, has spent the last 10 years living in his van, a testament to his commitment to the nomadic lifestyle. "I had a life, a family, and a business," he said. "Now, I'm just on the road in my van." His choice of van, a Sprinter, was a practical decision, as it offered him the best value for his budget and Mercedes' reputation for quality.
The event, which was held for the first two years in Toledo, Oregon, was a labor of love for Coleman and Perales, who have been attending van-centric events for a decade. They saw an opportunity to create their own space for the van community to gather, share stories, and enjoy the music that has become synonymous with reggae.
The event began with organizers setting up camp areas and the main stage on Wednesday, with the festivities kicking off on Thursday. Attendees began trickling in through the front gate at the dock, and a shuttle service was provided to transport groups to the music stage. Around 12 volunteers contributed to the success of the event, ensuring that everything ran smoothly.
The atmosphere at Rigs and Reggae was one of inclusivity and support. Perales emphasized the importance of the van community in providing a safe space for all, particularly for single females who might feel more comfortable attending events like this with the sense of community and safety it offers.
Coleman echoed this sentiment, noting that the camaraderie and sense of community were the most exciting aspects of the event. "People are most excited to be together and have that community feeling," she said. "And having that around music just makes it that much better."
The event was not just about music and camping; it was also about the shared experiences and connections that the van community fosters. Attendees shared stories, laughed, and made new friends, all while enjoying the beautiful surroundings of Astoria's waterfront.
As the event drew to a close, the van enthusiasts packed up their vans and prepared to head off to their next adventures. For many, Rigs and Reggae was not just a festival; it was a reminder of the freedom and joy that comes with embracing a nomadic lifestyle.
The success of the event has organizers looking forward to future gatherings. As Coleman and Perales continue to nurture the van community, they hope to create more opportunities for people to come together, share their stories, and celebrate the unique lifestyle that has become a part of their lives.
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