MUSIC NEWS: Clover Island Concert Series & Fusion Fest
Clover Island Concert Series: Celebrating 20 years of music and community
The Clover Island Concert Series is celebrating its 20th anniversary season in style, bringing another summer filled with music, food, and riverside vibes. Now under the leadership of Emerald Spark Events, the beloved series promises a fresh spark while honoring its community roots.
The 2025 season kicks off Sunday, May 25 with Fastlane, an Eagles tribute band, setting the stage for a vibrant lineup. Concerts take place on Sundays and Wednesdays throughout the summer at Clover Island, a picturesque venue nestled at the Port of Kennewick with an up-close view of the cable bridge and Columbia River.
Even better, all Wednesday night shows are free, making it easier than ever for the whole community to come out and enjoy live music. Emerald of Siam will be serving up food and drinks, and most shows are open to all ages.
This year’s lineup is stacked with crowd pleasers, including Cherry Poppin’ Daddies, Pigs on the Wing (a tribute to Pink Floyd), Paper Flowers – Remembering Fleetwood Mac, and the iconic hip-hop group Nappy Roots, along with local favorite bands such as Colorblind, Stompin' Ground, and Groove Principal.
More than just great music, each event contributes to a local nonprofit, making it a true community celebration.
For the full schedule and details, visit thunderontheisland.com. Here's to 20 years of music, memories, and giving back — Island style.
FUSION FEST
Fusion Fest is shaking things up in Richland. The main event is set for John Dam Plaza on June 14, and it’s pulling together a solid mix of music, food, and local flavor.
The all-ages festival brings a lineup that spans styles but keeps it accessible. Fruition, a newgrass band from Portland, blends elements of bluegrass, folk, and rock for a sound that’s as dynamic as it is rootsy. Mad Ruby delivers straight-ahead rock with grit. Les Stress and the Testers bring a swing-inspired set that leans fun over fancy. Los Caipirinhos bring Latin rhythms into the mix, while Metaphorical Lions offer a moodier indie set. easyday brings a fresh, melodic sound, and Van Dels close things out with upbeat, crowd-pleasing energy. The festival will also have local hip-hop and singer/songwriters in the mix.
Fusion Fest isn’t just the main event on June 14th. Local businesses are getting in on the action, with special events and discounts running all week long from June 9 – 14. Whether it’s a food special, live music, or just a local deal, businesses around the Tri-Cities are adding to the festival vibe.
Visit fusionfestwa.com to see the lineup and learn about ways to get involved.
Beyond the music, there’s a community stage featuring local acts, a beer garden, and food trucks offering more than just the usual deep-fried suspects. It’s casual, open, and low-pressure — just a good excuse to hang out and hear something different.