Blog

                       Milton Blake and local DJs bring music, food, and community spirit to the newly renovated Valley Refuge Shelter in Riverview Park

PITTSBURGH – JULY 2, 2025 – The Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy today announced the return of Reggae at Riverview on Saturday, August 2, 2025—a free, family-friendly celebration of music, culture, and community set in the heart of one of Pittsburgh’s most beloved regional parks.

Now in its fifth year, Reggae at Riverview has grown into a cherished summer tradition. What began as a post-pandemic healing event has blossomed into a gathering that brings neighbors and visitors together through the power of reggae music. This year’s festival promises a full day of live performances, DJs, Caribbean cuisine, local craft beers, art, and vendors.

The newly restored Valley Refuge Shelter will serve as the festival’s backdrop, thanks to a renovation project led by the Parks Conservancy in partnership with the City of Pittsburgh’s Department of Public Works. The project was designed to make targeted, strategic repairs and upgrades that improve the visitor experience and ensure the long-term functionality of this historic shelter. With input from design consultants and key City stakeholders, the work addresses both immediate maintenance needs and community-identified priorities. This $340,000 restoration was made possible thanks to an allocation to the Parks Conservancy from the City of Pittsburgh’s 2024 Capital Improvements Plan Budget via the Parks Tax Trust Fund, private donations, an investment from the Merus Charitable Foundation, and a Keystone Historic Preservation Construction Grant from the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission, and in-kind support from the City’s Department of Public Works. 

“Reggae at Riverview is a celebration of joy, connection, and this amazing greenspace we’re proud to steward,” said Erin Tobin, assistant director of community engagement at the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. “We’re especially excited to welcome attendees back to the beautifully restored Valley Refuge Shelter and celebrate summer with us.”

Taking the stage is Truth and Rites Band, and this year’s headliner is Milton Blake, a powerhouse reggae artist born in St. Catherine, Jamaica, and now based in Cleveland, Ohio. Blake has worked with some of reggae’s most respected musicians, including Luciano, Mikey General, Dean Fraser, and Sly & Robbie.

“Anyone who has a passion for reggae music will tell you it's not just a hobby or interest, but a whole lifestyle,” said Blaise Edwards, Truth and Rites band. “That's why having one day a year for all Pittsburgh's reggae fans and musicians to gather together outside is really special.  Reggae At Riverview has become a celebration of the message and the groove of the music."

The festival is presented in collaboration with the Parks Conservancy, CitiParks, Friends of Riverview Park and the Northside Leadership Conference. Pittsburgh-based DJs and Sound System Operators, Green Rose Sound, will once again bring their signature style to the event.

Riverview Park, now a nationally certified arboretum, continues to evolve with ongoing investments in infrastructure and accessibility. Reggae at Riverview is a reflection of that transformation—a vibrant, inclusive celebration rooted in music, community, and love for the outdoors.

Admission is free, and all are welcome. For updates and artist announcements, follow Reggae at Riverview 2025 on Facebook.

###

Alana Wenk                                                                
Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy                                
412.527.0020                                                             
awenk@pittsburghparks.org