Astoria, Oregon, became the epicenter of a vibrant van community this past August, as the waterfront at Pier 39 played host to the third annual Rigs and Reggae event. Co-hosted by Pino's Adventures and founded by Christine Coleman and Peter Perales, the four-day festival brought together enthusiasts from across the nation, uniting in a celebration of the nomadic lifestyle and the joy of reggae music.
The event, which spanned from August 27th to August 30th, saw approximately 100 campers set up camp at the waterfront, creating a vibrant community atmosphere. Food and drinks were generously supplied by surrounding businesses, ensuring that attendees had everything they needed to enjoy the festivities.
The van community, a tight-knit group known for its blend of freedom and fun, was well represented at Rigs and Reggae. Many van enthusiasts, such as Coleman and Perales, lead dual lives, working traditional jobs while using their time off to embrace the nomadic lifestyle. Others, like 75-year-old Babba Gi, make the van their full-time residence, living out of a Sprinter van that has become their home on wheels.
Gi, originally from Ealing, an area near London, chose his Sprinter van due to its affordability and reliability. He spoke of his decade-long journey living in the van, sharing that it allowed him to explore the world and experience the freedom he craves. His preference for small gatherings like Rigs and Reggae is clear, as he enjoys the intimate atmosphere and the sense of camaraderie that comes with such events.
The event's organizers, Coleman and Perales, have a deep connection to the van community, having attended similar events for a decade. It was their passion for the lifestyle that led them to create Rigs and Reggae, an event that they hope will foster a sense of community and support for van enthusiasts of all ages.
The setup for the event began on Wednesday, with volunteers working tirelessly to prepare the camp area and the main stage. The event officially kicked off on Thursday, and by Friday, attendees began trickling in through the front gate at the dock. A shuttle service was provided to transport groups of people to the music stage, ensuring that everyone could enjoy the performances.
The event attracted a diverse crowd, ranging from their 20s to 70s and beyond. Coleman noted that the attendees were united by a shared love for life, nature, and the camaraderie that comes with exploring the world together. Perales emphasized the inclusive nature of the van community, stating that it offers a safe and supportive space for individuals, including single females, to enjoy the nomadic lifestyle.
The event's success can be attributed to the organizers' vision and the dedication of the volunteers. Coleman and Perales took pride in the fact that Rigs and Reggae brought people together from all walks of life, creating a sense of unity and shared purpose. "We want to show people that if you have a van, there are safe places to go, organized events," said Perales. "You're not just out there by yourself."
As the event drew to a close, the attendees reflected on the experience, many expressing gratitude for the sense of community and the opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals. Rigs and Reggae proved to be more than just a music festival; it was a celebration of life, freedom, and the shared joy of the nomadic spirit.
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