In a remarkable display of resilience and passion for adventure, Christine Coleman and Peter Perales, both in their mid-40s, have turned their love for van-centric music events into a vibrant community gathering. For over a decade, the couple has attended numerous concerts and festivals, with Coleman estimating their attendance at over 100 events. This August, their passion led them to organize Rigs and Reggae, a celebration of van and camping culture paired with reggae music, at Pier 39 in Astoria, Oregon.
The event, which spanned from August 27 to 30, marked the third year of Rigs and Reggae, with the first two years being held in Toledo, Oregon. The couple's journey from attendees to organizers is a testament to their unwavering commitment to their hobby and their shared love for adventure.
"We've always enjoyed attending these events, but it was Peter's health scare that truly inspired us to take the leap," explained Coleman. Perales, an apparel designer and construction worker, faced a daunting challenge when diagnosed with a brain tumor at the beginning of the pandemic. Despite the odds, Perales survived and embarked on a journey of recovery and rehabilitation.
His recovery, however, was not without its trials. Just a year after his first surgery, Perales faced another craniotomy to remove a second tumor. The setbacks did not deter the couple; instead, they saw it as an opportunity to give back to the community that had supported them during their difficult times.
"We had already planned to take a break after the first surgery, but after the second, we decided to push forward with the event," said Perales. "We wanted to show that despite the challenges, we could still make it happen."
The Rigs and Reggae event, which featured live reggae music, camping, and a showcase of adventure and camper vans, was a celebration of life, love, and the spirit of adventure. The couple's choice of a "Storyteller" van, manufactured by Storyteller Overland in Birmingham, Alabama, was a reflection of their journey and their newfound appreciation for the simple joys of life.
"We started with car camping, then moved to a rooftop tent, and finally, a van," said Coleman. "It was through these experiences that we realized the kind of lifestyle we wanted to lead."
The event was a resounding success, drawing a diverse crowd of enthusiasts and music lovers. "It's amazing to see so many people come together to celebrate our shared love for vans and music," said Perales. "It's a reminder of how much we all have in common, despite our differences."
Despite the challenges they faced, the couple remains optimistic about the future. "We're just getting started," said Perales. "We want to continue growing this event and make it a staple in the community."
Their story is one of perseverance and love, a tale of two individuals who turned a hobby into a powerful force for good. Rigs and Reggae, in its third year, stands as a testament to the couple's unwavering commitment to their passion and to the community they serve.
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