Riverfest Elora

Riverfest Elora was an independent music festival in Elora, Ontario, that brought people together through live music, art, and shared experiences along the Grand River. Founded in 2009 as a small backyard fundraiser organized by Marilyn Koop, it grew into a three-day festival featuring multiple stages and more than 50 artists, including acclaimed headliners. A dedicated staff team and more than 600 volunteers helped make the event a cherished part of Elora’s cultural identity and a gathering place for local residents and visitors.

Over its 15-year history, Riverfest offered festival programming and experiences supported by artists, vendors, sponsors, local businesses, and community partners. The festival’s organizers have announced that it is closing, citing escalating production and infrastructure costs, declining sponsorship, and losses exceeding $1.2 million over three seasons since 2023. Although ticket sales and attendance could not sustain the event financially, Riverfest leaves a lasting legacy of music, creativity, and community connection.