June 26, 2026 3:40 a.m.  

Riverbend Live! begins its 30th anniversary season Friday night.

The summertime series was the brainchild of the late Dick Nichols and his wife Mo. After leading the effort to start Music on the Half Shell in Roseburg five years earlier, the couple wanted a second venue for the community, with a slightly different vibe.

Held at Winston’s Riverbend Park, this year’s lineup includes blues, rock, and nostalgia musicians, along with an evening featuring a Cowboy Poetry & Western Music Roundable, and a Youth Theatre production. The series runs through August first.

Internationally acclaimed blues-rock guitarist and singer Colin James kicks off the season. James’ career has spanned more than three decades and over 20 studio albums.

Attendees to Riverbend Live! can bring blankets and chairs prior to the show. Guests can pick up food and beverages from the vendors on site, or provide their own meal, along with wine or beer. Smoking and pets are not permitted at the venue.

Concerts begin at 7:00 p.m. For complete information on Riverbend Live!, go to: https://riverbendlive.org/