Riverbend Live! Celebrates the Spirit of the American West

Riverbend Live!, an annual event that showcases the rich cultural heritage of the American West, is set to captivate audiences once again on Friday night at Winston's Riverbend Park. This evening of cowboy poetry and western music promises to transport attendees to the rugged landscapes and timeless traditions that have defined the region for generations.

Immerse Yourself in the Rhythms and Rhymes of the Frontier

Poetic Reflections from the Saddle

Oregon horseman Tom Swearingen is the embodiment of the cowboy poet, his words imbued with the wisdom and experiences gleaned from a lifetime in the saddle. Swearingen's original poetry, often inspired by his own observations and encounters, has earned him widespread acclaim, including being named the Male Poet of the Year by the Western Music Association in 2019 and 2022. His award-winning collection, "Reflection," was recognized as the Cowboy Poetry Book of the Year in 2020, a testament to his ability to capture the essence of the cowboy lifestyle in lyrical form.Swearingen's poetry invites the audience to step into the boots of the modern-day cowboy, offering a glimpse into the daily challenges, triumphs, and quiet moments that define life on the range. His words resonate with a authenticity that can only come from a deep connection to the land and the animals that have shaped the American West. Through his poetic narratives, Swearingen weaves a tapestry of stories that celebrate the enduring spirit of the frontier, inspiring a sense of wonder and appreciation for the rugged beauty of this timeless way of life.

Harmonies of the West

Joni Harms, a celebrated performer in the world of Western music, will grace the stage at Riverbend Live! with her captivating vocals and masterful musicianship. Harms has earned numerous accolades from the Western Music Association and the Academy of Western Artists, solidifying her reputation as one of the genre's most accomplished artists.Harms' performances have taken her to some of the most prestigious stages, including the Grand Old Opry and Carnegie Hall in New York City, where she has captivated audiences with her unique blend of traditional country and western influences. Her music, infused with the rhythms and melodies of the American West, evokes the wide-open spaces, the rolling hills, and the enduring spirit of the frontier.As Harms takes the stage at Riverbend Live!, she will weave a tapestry of timeless tunes that celebrate the enduring legacy of Western music. From the haunting ballads that capture the loneliness of the open range to the upbeat, foot-stomping anthems that capture the joy and camaraderie of life on the frontier, her performance promises to transport the audience to a bygone era, where the sounds of the West echoed across the vast landscapes.

An Evening of Cowboy Culture

Riverbend Live! is more than just a concert; it is a celebration of the rich cultural heritage of the American West. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own dinner, including wine or beer, to enjoy while immersing themselves in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the frontier.For those who prefer to indulge in the culinary delights of the region, the event will feature a variety of vendors offering a tantalizing array of Western-inspired fare. And for those who wish to quench their thirst, Lookingglass Brewery will be on hand, serving up refreshing libations that perfectly complement the evening's festivities.As the sun sets over Riverbend Park, the audience will be treated to a tobacco-free, dog-free environment that allows them to fully immerse themselves in the timeless traditions of the West. Whether they choose to bring their own chairs and blankets or simply soak in the atmosphere, attendees are sure to leave with a renewed appreciation for the enduring spirit of the American frontier.