It’s where gravity, grit and groove collide. Richmond’s Dominion Energy Riverrock returns May 17-19 to turn Brown’s Island into a high-octane playground of trail runs, climbing walls, flying dogs and thumping bass lines. Now in its 16th year, the free, three-day adrenaline fest draws over 100,000 fans annually—blending elite outdoor sport with live music in a setting where kayakers battle in polo scrums and boulderers scale walls to roaring crowds.

The festival begins Friday, May 17, at 5 p.m. with a range of events, including the Subaru Ultimate Air Dogs, the Belle Isle Blitz 5K, and the MTB Time Trial. The evening will culminate in a concert by the Sam Grisman Project at 8 p.m.

On Saturday, May 18, the schedule features a mix of sports and activities. Participants can take part in the Monsters of the James Fishing Tournament, the James River Scramble (10K), and MTB Enduro, while spectators can enjoy events such as the Subaru Ultimate Air Dogs, Kayak Boatercross and SUP Cross. The Cup of the East Kayak Polo tournament also will begin on Saturday. Eggy and Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe will headline the evening’s music performances.

Sunday, May 19, will feature the Bust the Banks Half Marathon, an Adventure Race, and more outdoor activities, including the Downriver Paddle and another round of Subaru Ultimate Air Dogs. The festival will conclude with a performance by The Stews at 3:40 p.m.

Throughout the weekend, the festival also will feature Adventure Zones, where attendees can participate in free activities such as kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding, slacklining, bouldering, and guided hikes. These zones are open to all ages and offer a hands-on experience for those looking to try something new.

Festival-goers also can expect a variety of food trucks serving regional favorites and beverages, including Hardywood Craft Beer, Bold Rock Hard Seltzer and non-alcoholic options from Athletic Brewing.

Dominion Energy Riverrock attracts top athletes from across the country, particularly in the fan-favorite bouldering competitions, which include the Boulder Bash and Speed Comp.

This year, nearly 45 athletes from 17 states are expected to compete. Yealiya Southern, the 2023 female Boulder Bash champion, will return to defend her title, while Joe Goodacre, the defending male Speed Comp champion, also will compete.

For those interested in participating in the festival, online registration remains available throughout the weekend. Registered participantswill receive a festival shirt and a drink ticket, with packet pickup available at the respective start areas for each event.

A full schedule of events and additional festival details are available on the official River rock website at riverrockrva.com.