In the coastal town of Astoria, Oregon, a music festival unlike any other has been making waves, celebrating the fusion of van culture, camping, and reggae music. Known as Rigs and Reggae, the event, which took place from August 27 to 30, was the brainchild of Christine Coleman and Peter Perales, a couple who turned their passion for nomadic camping into a vibrant festival that brought people together under the rhythm of reggae.
For over a decade, Coleman and Perales have been avid attendees of various music festivals and events, but it wasn't until they faced life-threatening challenges that they decided to step into the organizing shoes. Perales, a designer, and Coleman, an apparel construction worker, both from Beaverton, Oregon, have a shared love for adventure and the outdoors. Their journey to becoming organizers began with Perales' unexpected diagnosis of a brain tumor early in the pandemic.
"I was dying of a brain tumor," Perales admitted, reflecting on the initial shock of his diagnosis. The couple's enthusiasm for camping and attending events was put on hold as Perales struggled with his health. "I got sick, real sick," Perales recalled. "I was staying in the hospital, trying to distract myself because we didn't have an answer yet."
Their determination to overcome adversity was solidified when Perales bought a van, vowing to make the most of every moment he had left. However, life had other plans, as he discovered another brain tumor seven months later. "Finally, my doctor said 'okay you can go back to work,'" Perales said. "I went back to work and I worked really hard and I bought my van like I said I was going to."
Their love for van events and the camping lifestyle led them to purchase a Storyteller adventure and camper van, where they started attending van-centric gatherings. The couple's journey took a turn when they attended the Adventure Van Expo, where they were approached by the owners of Pier 39 with an offer to host their event in Astoria.
"I looked at Christine and I said okay let's do this," Perales said. "It was in 30 days and the clock started ticking. We were going to take a year off because of my surgery, but I mean, I feel recovered. We're like, sure, we're ready. So we had 30 days to put this together."
The third year of Rigs and Reggae, held in Astoria, marked a significant milestone for the couple, who had faced immense personal challenges. Perales' second craniotomy and recovery were obstacles they overcame with resilience. "I've already had one (craniotomy) so when they found the second (tumor) I'm like let's just go in there and get it out," Perales explained. His positive outlook on life has been shaped by his experiences, leading him to appreciate the smaller things more than ever.
The Rigs and Reggae event is more than just a music festival; it's a celebration of life and the outdoors. Attendees are treated to a unique blend of reggae music, camping, and the camaraderie of fellow van enthusiasts. The festival's success is a testament to the couple's passion and commitment to their hobby, as well as their ability to turn personal struggles into opportunities for joy and community.
"The festival brings people from all walks of life together, sharing a love for music, camping, and adventure," Coleman said. "It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, there is always hope and a chance to create something beautiful."
As Rigs and Reggae continues to grow, it serves as an inspiration to others facing their own challenges. The couple's journey from festival-goers to organizers is a story of resilience, love, and the power of community. In Astoria, Oregon, the festival has not only created a new tradition but also a legacy that will continue to touch the lives of many for years to come.
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