Article Contributed by CK Communications Group
Published on 2026-07-21
92.5 the River, “Boston’s Independent Radio,” has announced that Spin Doctors will headline the station’s 24th annual Riverfest Music Festival on the Broadway Boardwalk at Salisbury Beach on August 22, 2026. Buffalo Tom, Fantastic Cat and Gavin Marengi join the lineup for a full day of free music and activities.
This year’s festival is presented by Bud Light and produced in conjunction with the Salisbury Beach Partnership.
“We’re excited to return to the Salisbury Beach Boardwalk for Riverfest 2026. There’s something magical about live music by the ocean, and this year’s lineup captures everything our listeners love about 92.5 the River—iconic artists, exciting new discoveries, and outstanding local talent. It’s the perfect way to celebrate summer with our River community,” said Olivia Lowe, music director of WXRV/92.5 the River.
Spin Doctors
For more than three decades, Spin Doctors have remained one of the most recognizable bands to emerge from the alternative rock explosion of the early 1990s. After building a loyal following through relentless touring, they broke into the mainstream with their multi-platinum 1991 debut album, Pocket Full of Kryptonite.
Fueled by the hit singles “Two Princes” and “Little Miss Can’t Be Wrong,” the band became known for its infectious blend of rock, funk, blues and pop. Led by vocalist Chris Barron alongside guitarist Eric Schenkman, bassist Mark White and drummer Aaron Comess, Spin Doctors continue to deliver the same high-energy performances that made them a favorite on club stages, festival grounds and concert venues across the country.
With a mix of classic hits, fan favorites and inspired improvisation, Spin Doctors remain a vibrant live band whose music continues to resonate with audiences of all ages.
Buffalo Tom
Buffalo Tom emerged at the dawn of the alternative rock explosion and became one of the most enduring bands of its generation. Formed in Boston in the late 1980s, the trio earned acclaim for its powerful guitar-driven sound before expanding its audience with the acclaimed 1992 album Let Me Come Over, featuring the fan favorite “Taillights Fade.”
After a brief hiatus in the early 2000s, Buffalo Tom returned to recording and touring, releasing acclaimed albums including Quiet and Peace in 2018 and Jump Rope in 2024. Today, the band continues to captivate audiences with its signature blend of melodic songwriting, heartfelt lyrics and timeless alternative rock.
Fantastic Cat
Fantastic Cat is one of Americana’s most exciting new bands, bringing together acclaimed singer-songwriters Anthony D’Amato, Brian Dunne, Don DiLego and Mike Montali.
Blending sharp songwriting, rich harmonies and plenty of humor, the quartet creates a fresh mix of rock, folk, country and Americana. Since the release of their acclaimed debut album, The Very Best of Fantastic Cat, the band has earned a reputation for energetic live performances, seamless chemistry and unforgettable shows filled with great songs, exceptional musicianship and plenty of laughs.
Gavin Marengi
Gavin Marengi is a singer-songwriter from Salisbury, Massachusetts, and a true hometown enthusiast. His deep connection to his small-town roots and formative experiences growing up shape the heartfelt narratives woven into his songs.
Drawing inspiration from a diverse range of genres, Gavin’s music is a fusion of Americana, classic folk, Southern rock and outlaw country. His guitar skills and soulful, raspy voice have helped him captivate audiences wherever he performs.
Throughout the day of free entertainment, festivalgoers can interact with more than 30 participating exhibitors before, during and after the event. For adults, there will be a Bud Light Beer Garden and Tito’s Handmade Vodka POD Bar. Businesses, restaurants and arcades along the Broadway Boardwalk at Salisbury Beach will also be open during Riverfest.
“We’re thrilled to once again partner with the Salisbury Beach Partnership to bring Riverfest back to Salisbury Beach,” said Donald St. Sauveur, general manager of WXRV/92.5 the River. “The Broadway Boardwalk is an incredible setting for a free live music festival, offering our listeners a beautiful oceanfront experience unlike any other.
“The transformation of Salisbury Beach—from the beautifully restored historic carousel to the new boardwalk, welcome center and other public improvements—has made it an even more inviting destination. We think this year’s Riverfest will not only showcase great music, but also everything that makes Salisbury Beach such a special place to spend a summer day.”
The Salisbury Beach Partnership is dedicated to revitalizing and protecting Salisbury Beach by promoting its recreational, historical, environmental, cultural and community assets. By connecting local residents, North Shore communities and visitors to the coastal destination, the Partnership helps ensure the continued enjoyment of the public and private investment that has transformed the Salisbury waterfront.
“Riverfest has become one of the signature events of the summer at Salisbury Beach, and we’re proud to partner with 92.5 the River to bring this free concert back to our community,” said Kathy Aiello, managing director of Atlantic Hospitality Group and a member of the Salisbury Beach Partnership Board of Directors.
“We invite everyone to make a day of it—enjoy an outstanding lineup of live music, relax on the beach, explore everything Salisbury has to offer, and cap off the evening with fireworks over the ocean. Events like Riverfest showcase the welcoming spirit of Salisbury Beach and the vibrant energy that continues to make it one of New England’s favorite summer destinations.”
Getting to Riverfest
While more than 800 paid municipal parking spaces will be available on-site, festival attendees are also encouraged to rideshare or carpool, use ride-hailing services, take alternative transportation or utilize the free shuttle school bus service running between the Salisbury Beach State Reservation parking area and the Salisbury Beach Broadway Boardwalk.
The parking lots at the Salisbury Beach State Reservation, located at 1 State Reservation Road in Salisbury, will be served by a free shuttle school bus from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
MeVa Transit will also offer free bus service from surrounding areas. Attendees can park at the Newburyport MBTA station and take MeVa’s free, air-conditioned Route 20 bus, with hourly service beginning at 7 a.m. and service approximately every 20 minutes from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
The route passes through downtown Newburyport before heading directly to Riverfest at Salisbury Beach. MeVa’s Route 17 bus leaves on the hour beginning at 7 a.m. from Haverhill, traveling through Amesbury to Salisbury Beach.
Plan your trip and download MeVa Transit timetables
92.5 the River celebrates the Boston and New England music scenes with a playlist spanning current releases, favorites from the 1980s and 1990s, and deep album cuts from the 1960s and 1970s. The station’s programming includes alternative, acoustic, folk, blues, reggae, jam band and other forms of music.
Past Riverfest performers include Barenaked Ladies, Guster, Noah Kahan, Frank Turner, Mt. Joy, Ripe, The Lemonheads, Big Head Todd & the Monsters, The Revivalists and more.
92.5 the River’s Riverfest Music Festival
Saturday, August 22, 2026
Noon–6 p.m.
Broadway Boardwalk
Salisbury Beach, Massachusetts
Free admission
Rain or shine
Lineup:
Spin Doctors
Buffalo Tom
Fantastic Cat
Gavin Marengi
More information:
Riverfest at Salisbury Beach
