2024 Waterfront Blues Festival - July 4, 2023. Photo by Jason Quigley.
Portland’s most iconic summer celebration is back, and it’s bigger and more soulful than ever. The 38th Annual Waterfront Blues Festival is taking over Tom McCall Waterfront Park on Friday, July 4 and Saturday, July 5, and you’re invited to join the music, the magic, and the memories.
Picture this: warm summer air, the Willamette River shimmering in the background, and the sounds of blues, soul, and funk filling the heart of downtown. This is Portland's ultimate weekend soundtrack with performances running from 12 pm to 10 pm each day across two stages.
2024 Waterfront Blues Festival - July 7, 2023. Photo by Jason Quigley.
And here’s the best part, it is for everyone. This is an all-ages, all-access, fully inclusive celebration of music, art, food, and community.
More Than 30 Acts, Endless Vibes
This year’s lineup features more than thirty incredible performers, including national stars, local legends, and fresh new voices you’ll be bragging about discovering first. Artists like Southern Avenue, Ben Rice, Norman Sylvester, and Arietta Ward are just the beginning. Whether you are a lifelong blues lover or just dipping your toes in, the energy is undeniable.
Fireworks Over the River
Stick around after sunset on the Fourth of July for Portland’s only large-scale fireworks show. Launched from a barge directly before the festival, this twenty-minute spectacle is choreographed to a soundtrack of classic blues, soul, and funk. Bring your blankets and prepare to be wowed.
Local Bites and Sips
From BBQ and bowls to vegan delights and frozen treats, the Blues Bites food court has something for every appetite. Favorite vendors this year include Bates BBQ, Boke Bowl, Elephants Deli, Horn of Africa, Fabos Tacos, and Nico’s Ice Cream. On the drink side, expect local beer, regional wines, cocktails, and refreshing non-alcoholic options.
Cruise While You Groove
For a unique experience, hop aboard a Blues Cruise on the Willamette. These floating concerts are a festival favorite, offering performances by powerhouse acts while cruising past the Portland skyline. Choose from the Sail on Sister Cruise on July 4, featuring women of blues and soul, or the Cruisin’ to Memphis Finals on July 5, which combines competition and star power.
Tickets start at $40 and are available now at [waterfrontbluesfest.com](https://waterfrontbluesfest.com). One-day and two-day passes are available at both General Admission and VIP levels. Kids 12 and under get in free, making this a perfect weekend for the whole family.
#### 💵 A Boost for the Local Economy
The Waterfront Blues Festival is more than just fun, it’s fuel for Portland’s downtown recovery. Every year, it pumps millions into local hotels, restaurants, shops, and transportation services. The festival is independently produced and proudly works with local vendors, crews, and artists, generating jobs and supporting our creative economy.
A Note for Film Fans
If you loved the bluesy vibe of the blockbuster Sinners, you’ll be thrilled to know that artists from the film’s soundtrack, including Tierinii Jackson of Southern Avenue and Cedric Burnside, are hitting the stage at this year’s festival. It is a full-circle moment for music lovers and movie buffs alike.
