Astoria's Pier 39 hosted a vibrant and unique gathering last week, as over a hundred van enthusiasts descended upon the waterfront for the annual Rigs and Reggae festival. This four-day event, which ran from August 27 to August 30, 2026, was a testament to the growing popularity of van life, a lifestyle that emphasizes adventure and freedom. Co-hosted by Pino's Adventures and founded by the dynamic couple, Christine Coleman and Peter Perales, the event showcased a love for reggae music and nomadic living.
The festival attracted a diverse group of participants, from young adults in their 20s to individuals well into their 70s. Attendees arrived in a variety of vans, each one a reflection of its owner's personal style and lifestyle choice. Babba Gi, a 75-year-old enthusiast from London, was among the attendees. He has spent the past decade living in his Sprinter van, a choice he made for its affordability and appeal to him.
Gi's story is a compelling one, having lived a traditional life with a family and business before opting for life on the road. "I'm just on the road in my van," he said, reflecting on his nomadic journey. His Sprinter van was a practical choice for him, as he explained, "The Sprinter is the best vehicle I could buy for the price I could afford, and Mercedes appealed to me."
The event's organizers, Coleman and Perales, have been part of the van community for a decade, attending various gatherings and dreaming of hosting their own. They brought the Rigs and Reggae festival to Astoria for the third year in a row, and it was clear from the outset that it was a labor of love.
As they worked to set up camp and the main stage, their passion for the community was evident. "We are just enjoying life, you know, going out in natural places, seeing nature," Coleman said. The event aimed to provide a sense of camaraderie and support among the van community, a community that can often feel isolated.
Perales spoke to the inclusive nature of the van community, noting the presence of single females who find comfort and safety in events like Rigs and Reggae. "You're not just out there by yourself. In our community, there's a lot of single females and they feel a comfort and support being able to attend an event like this — and they're gonna feel safe," he said.
The festival's venue, Astoria's Pier 39, proved to be an idyllic backdrop for the gathering. The area surrounding the pier was filled with vans, a sea of wheels and adventure. Attendees enjoyed the reggae music, food, and drinks provided by local businesses, all of which contributed to the festival's unique atmosphere.
The event was not just about the music and the vans, however. It was also about the connections made and the shared experiences. Dogs were a common sight at the festival, their presence adding to the sense of community and camaraderie. "There are a never-ending variety of places to travel and support a function like this," Gi said, gesturing towards the vast array of vans that surrounded him.
The Rigs and Reggae festival is more than just a gathering of van enthusiasts; it's a celebration of freedom, adventure, and community. It's a testament to the human spirit's desire to explore and to connect with others in meaningful ways. As the festival came to a close, it was clear that this event had left an indelible mark on all who participated.
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