Basalt River Jams festival returns to Basalt, celebrates local connection with rivers

Basalt residents and visitors are invited to kick-off summer at the Basalt River Jams festival from noon to 9 p.m. on Saturday, June 27, at Basalt River Park. 

Hosted by the town of Basalt, this free, family-friendly festival is paying homage to local rivers through water activities, live music, food and beverage, according to a press release. The event will feature two music artists — The Know Bodies Band at 6:30 p.m. and Cruz Contreras and the Black Lillies at 8 p.m. — as well as performances by Aspen Polynesia dancers, a group sponsored by Aspen Dance Connection. 

“Basalt River Jams is a celebration of everything that makes our community special — our rivers, outdoor recreation, local culture, and live music,” Basalt Public Arts and Community Events Manager Brent Compton said in the release. “Whether you’re competing in a race, enjoying the music, or spending time with family and friends, there’s something for everyone.”

Prior to the festival and on the day of, attendees can sign up for an array of races that take place between noon to 4:30 p.m. The racing events, which are being hosted by Whitewater Racing LLC, include a Ducky Dash, tubing, kayak races, paddleboard races and raft races. 

Frying Pan Anglers is also launching a fly fishing casting competition at 5 p.m., followed by cash prizes and awards at 6 p.m., according to the release. 

The Ducky Dash and tube races will feature free duckies and tubes for the first 25 participants. All other participants must bring their own personal floatation device, and both the rafting and kayaking events require helmets. 

The Roaring Fork Conservancy and Colorado Parks and Wildlife will support boat cleaning stations and help mitigate zebra mussel contamination. Free shuttles for river activities are being provided by Blazing Adventures. 

Community members and visitors can sign up early for river events at https://www.basalt.net/683/Basalt-River-Jams.