Monte Rio Festival

An Early Post-Pandemic Festivals/Events along the Russian River The Friends of Monte Rio [FOMR] thought long and hard about scheduling an event within the whirlwind of chaotic mandates, as to social distance, masks, vaccinations, and dogs on leashes.

The will of the public brought it together and kept them going. The Russian River residents wanted a social outlet: residential, mostly homeowning, mostly Vax’d and Masked. The MRRPD Amphitheater provided the necessary social distancing. West County Community Services [WCCS] supported the idea and were a prime booth attraction. Half a dozen of the other booths were local businesses, Chamber there too, plus other non-profits, like the local theater. The Russian River Library supported the kids “Area”, back of the stage with MRRPD managing readings and games, including free ice-cones and popcorn. A continuous stage show, eatery delicacies: Ice cream, BBQs, and Indian Curries. It all kept you going: Music, Booths, Food, Kids, and camaraderie with your Russian River residents. The attractive poster brought in others and the gate [free] swelled to 700. They were three crowds: (1) walking locals were the first early 300; poster-attracted visitors – another 300 mid-day; the night crowd – a free concert – the stage-side swelled from 100-early, to 200-midafternoon, to 300-late. Will there be Supper Club for 2021/22, the question is open.