2024 Rhythm & Roots Festival kicks off in grand style

Spirits were high, the weather was perfect, and the joint was shaking — indeed, it was a stellar start to the annual Rhythm and Roots Festival Friday night, August 30, at Ninigret Park in Charlestown, RI.

Food trucks and vendors surrounded the three festival stages (only two were in use Friday night) for the 26th annual event, a tribute to Chuck Wentworth, the treasured founder of Rhythm & Roots, who passed away earlier this year.

A slew of festival first-timers provided tight sets on the main “Rhythm Stage,” including North Carolina’s Yarn, who opened the show with a high-energy display of inspired southern rock. The vibe was more chill for Westerly native Will Evans, whose enchanting performance brought good vibes all around.

Brooklyn, New York’s Sister Sparrow & The Dirty Birds were next, behind the charming vocals of  Arleigh Kincheloe and Daniel Donato’s Cosmic County, a country/rock/roots stew, closed out the first night in fine jam band fashion.

The dance tent was swinging to the sounds of opener Rose and the Bros, followed by Cedric Watson & Bijou Creole, and then Nathan and the Zydeco Cha Chas, who closed out the evening.

Festival organizers also announced the establishment of a charitable foundation aimed “to encourage and support young musicians, help foster and intensify the love and passion for music in young students” in honor of Wentworth.  

A great weekend of music is still ahead at Rhythm & Roots. Tickets are available here. Meanwhile, check out some photos from Lifestyle Editor Ken Abrams below.