Family activities: New in 2025, guests could stop by the Rochester Art Center’s patio for low-key, drop-in fun. Each week included a rotating mix of bubbles, sidewalk chalk, and other kid-friendly play items.
First-time performers: All five headliners were new to the Riverside stage this year, including Blind Melon, Caylee Hammack, and Hoobastank.
Colin Bracewell(7:30 p.m.) - Colin Bracewell, a 21-year-old indie pop artist from Minneapolis, MN is paving his own, fresh path within the Midwest music scene. Originally hailing from Windsor, Ontario, Canada, Colin blends inspiration from the likes of Justin Vernon and John Mayer, though his music holds a raw and unabashed post-Frank Ocean R&B quality. His instrumentation sets Bracewell apart from other singer-songwriters of the same genre, often adding gentle synths, a killer trumpet solo or a moody saxophone riff to bring a jazzier feel that offsets lyrics of heartbreak (or amplifies them, depending on the listener). Colin is also a full-time student at the University of Minnesota majoring in Vocal Performance and Marketing. Bracewell currently holds the #1 spot on The Current's Chart Show with his song "Making Me Crazy".- https://colinbracewell.com/
Carolyne Naomi(8:30 p.m.) - Drawing heavily from the music of her youth growing up in Nigeria, Carolyne Naomi creates a unique blend of afro-pop, reggae and soul, heavily influenced by the gospel and R&B music that she grew up listening to. Carolyne’s take on this modern-day afro-fusion reflects today’s multicultural world and the everyday challenges it holds. By weaving phrases of the everyday Nigerian Pidgin English (NPE) spoken by the youths of Nigeria in homes across the globe into her narrative, she strikes a familiar chord in the ears of the greater African diaspora. - https://carolynenaomi.com/ Carnage the Executioner(9:30 p.m.) - Whether he’s rapping, producing, performing, teaching kids to beatbox, or working his former job as a youth counselor, it’s clear the man most commonly known as Carnage The Executioner was born to do two things: instruct and entertain. Musicians, dancers, DJs, poets, and television hosts who have worked with Carnage recognize his dedication to his craft and would confirm that he doesn’t disappoint. Ask emcees about Carnage’s skill level, and you’ll find out that the phrase, “he’s your favorite rapper’s favorite rapper,” actually fits.
A music fan since childhood, Carnage has filled his memory bank with thousands of references from all genres to draw from for his work. Carnage’s start as a human beatboxer has taken on a life of its own. He now uses technology like looping and effects pedals commonly used by guitarists. He enhances the experience of a live hip-hop show by allowing his audiences to hear original Carnage material and unique improvisations and spot-on recreations of popular songs. Carnage uses this same musical knowledge and technology to create custom, studio human beatbox tracks. His audio vision via mouth music can be heard on albums by hip-hop heavyweights Aesop Rock and R.A. The Rugged Man.
Carnage is a self-trained songwriter who’s skilled enough to compose a heart-felt story as easily as he can craft an intricate battle rap. Carnage gained national fame from his past guest appearances with Eyedea & Abilities. However, it’s his original songs that allow his fans to connect with him the most. Songs like "Addict", "Save My People", and "The MTW Story" give fans a glimpse into the real-life experiences of Carnage, the human being. - https://carnagetheexecutioner.com/
Part of Rochester Civic Music's Theatre Season, an indoor ticketed concert series providing world-class artists from a broad range of genres at moderate ticket prices. This series is presented in the intimate setting of the 300 seat main hall at the Rochester Civic Theatre on the Mayo Civic Center campus. These indoor concerts will provide a more engaging, up close and personal experience, allowing attendees to delve deeper into the creative process and soak in the finer details of the artistry involved.
Tickets available at Rochester Civic Music in City Hall (walk-in or by phone, no handling fees), the Mayo Civic Center Box Office (walk-in, no handling fees), and Ticketmaster (online). Order by phone at 507-328-2200 or 800-657-3980 or in person at 201 4th St. SE, Suite 170 (City Hall). Group rates available. More information at rochestermn.gov/civicmusic.
The Rochester Civic Music Box Office hours are 9 AM - 4 PM (M-F). We are open through the noon hour. Cash, Check, Visa, Mastercard, and Discover are accepted.
About Caravan du Nord: The Caravan du Nord is a traveling showcase of Minnesota music, bringing top regional acts, emerging bands and music industry professionals to towns across Greater Minnesota for a weekend of workshops, networking and performances. The Caravan du Nord is an ongoing project of the Minnesota Music Coalition. - https://www.mnmusiccoalition.org/caravan-du-nord/
About Minnesota Music Coalition: The Minnesota Music Coalition is a statewide network for independent musicians who care about creating and sustaining a vibrant popular music community. Through education, communication, and advocacy, we create access to resources and professional development services. - https://www.mnmusiccoalition.org/
Caravan du Nord is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.
Listen to the 2025 Season Sampler: Relive 2025's lineup with our curated Spotify playlist.
Alumni Playlist
Explore the artists who’ve helped shape Riverside over the years with our curated Spotify mix.
What is the Riverside Music Series?
This short video captures the spirit of the series.
Additional information
See below for answers to frequently asked questions.
Schedule & Start Times
The 2025 season ran from July 13 to August 10. The 2026 schedule will be announced in spring.
Concerts start at 7:00 p.m. Most shows wrap up by 9:30 or 10:00 p.m., making for a relaxed summer night downtown.
Come hungry! Food and beverage vendors begin serving at 6:00 p.m. Arrive early to grab dinner, find your spot, and enjoy the park before the music starts.
Location
All Riverside concerts take place in Mayo Park, right behind the Mayo Civic Center in downtown Rochester. The park connects directly to city trails and walking paths.
Whenever you can, we encourage you to walk, bike, or roll to the shows. Walking or biking is especially convenient if you're coming from nearby, and a great way to enjoy the evening.
Note: This map reflects information about 2024. And updated 2025 map will be posted soon.
Directions & Parking
Mayo Park is connected to Rochester’s trail system and can be reached by foot, bike, or wheelchair, though conditions may vary by route. Whenever it works for you, we encourage you to walk or bike. Coming from close by? Walking or biking makes it easy, and sets the tone for a great evening.
Free parking is available on evenings and weekends in nearby City-owned ramps, surface lots, and metered street spots, all within walking distance of the park.
Accessible parking is available in all ramps, with additional designated spaces along Civic Center Drive, closest to the Mayo Civic Center entrance. From there, guests can access Mayo Park via level sidewalk and paved trail routes.
Every Riverside show is free and open to the public. No tickets. No sign-up. Just come and enjoy the music.
What to Bring
You're welcome to bring coolers, picnics, lawn chairs, and blankets. Many guests bring their own food and drinks to enjoy during the show.
Alcohol is allowed in the park. Please drink responsibly.
Grills are not permitted. Service animals are welcome, but we ask that pets stay home.
Seating
All seating is first come, first served. Bring a blanket or lawn chair to settle in and enjoy the show comfortably.
To keep the park welcoming for everyone, please don’t use ropes, stakes, or other items to block off space.
Restrooms
Indoor restrooms are available inside the Mayo Civic Center. Look for entrances on either side of the stage at Doors 16 and 19.
We also provide portable restrooms in Mayo Park for convenience, including at least one larger unit intended for accessible use at each event.
If you have specific accessibility needs, please visit our Accessibility page or contact us in advance so we can help you plan a safe and comfortable visit.
Food & Drink
Each week, a rotating lineup of local food trucks and beverage vendors will be onsite starting at 6:00 p.m. Options vary by week and usually include meals, snacks, and drinks.
You're also welcome to bring your own picnic or cooler if you prefer.
Weather Policy
The Riverside Music Series happens rain or shine. If rain is in the forecast, we recommend bringing a poncho instead of an umbrella to help keep sightlines clear for others.
If lightning, high winds, or other unsafe conditions occur, performances may be delayed, shortened, or canceled. Event staff monitor the forecast closely and will respond as needed to keep everyone safe.
Smoking and vaping are not allowed in the park during Riverside events.
Accessibility & Guest Services
We aim to make every Riverside concert welcoming and accessible to all guests. CART (real-time captioning) is available at every show, and staff are on site to help with wayfinding, questions, or guest support.
To follow along with live captions, scan the QR code in the park or visit
streamtext.net/player on your phone or tablet.
For more details on physical accessibility, sensory supports, or parking options, visit our
Accessibility page.
Family Activities
In 2025, Rochester Art Center provided free, drop-in play activities on their patio during the concerts. Activities varied by week and included fun items like bubbles, sidewalk chalk, and jump ropes. Activities were free and open to all.
Giveaways
Giveaways will return in 2026. Details announced with the lineup in spring.
Meet & Greets
Backstage passes will return in 2026. Details announced with the lineup in spring.
Soliciting & Campaigning
The Riverside Music Series takes place in a public park and is open to everyone.
While this is a shared community space, we ask that individuals and organizations refrain from campaigning, soliciting, or distributing materials during the event.
Our goal is to keep the atmosphere music-focused, welcoming, and free from pressure. Thank you for helping us make the park a place to relax, connect, and enjoy the evening together.
Vendor Opportunities
Rochester Public Music partners with the Mayo Civic Center to coordinate food and beverage vending for the Riverside Music Series.
Vendors interested in participating should apply directly through the Mayo Civic Center’s process.
The Riverside Music Series is funded primarily by the City of Rochester. Support from sponsors, funders, and community partners helps us grow the series, welcome more people, and keep the music free and accessible for all.
This activity is made possible by the voters of Minnesota through a Minnesota State Arts Board Operating Support grant, thanks to a legislative appropriation from the arts and cultural heritage fund.