Rio Vista Bass Derby & Festival Event
2025 EVENT PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Rio Vista Bass Derby & Festival Adjusts Scale for 2025 Event

RIO VISTA, CA – July 16, 2025 – The Rio Vista Chamber of Commerce is announcing a significant restructuring of the annual Rio Vista Bass Derby & Festival, transitioning from its long-standing large-scale production to a more focused, community-centric event for 2025. The Rio Vista Bass Derby (Fishing Tournament), a beloved three-day competition, will continue as planned.

This decision comes after extensive deliberation by the Rio Vista Chamber of Commerce Board, driven by escalating production costs, increased logistical demands, and a desire to ensure the event's long-term sustainability.

"The Rio Vista Bass Derby & Festival has been a cornerstone of our community for many years, bringing people together and boosting local businesses," said the RVCC Board of Directors, “However, the rising costs of production, particularly for elements like insurance, security, & fireworks – which have seen a more than doubling of cost since 2019 – coupled with the immense volunteer hours required and a consistent financial deficit, have made it clear that a change is necessary."

A New Vision for 2025

For 2025, the Rio Vista Bass Derby & Festival will condense into a one-day event on Saturday, October 11th, concentrating efforts on Main Street from the Waterfront to 5th Street. The revised format will feature:

• The Rio Vista Bass Derby(Fishing Tournament): Remaining a full three-day competition in partnership with the CA Striped Bass Assoc. Isleton Chapter

• Vendors: Located from 1 Main Street to Front Street.

• Lion's Club Pancake Breakfast & Car Show: Positioned from Front Street to 5th St.

• Music: Music by local musicians located at Haps Taps on Main Street

• Fireworks: Saturday Evening spectacular show on the River off a Dutra Barge

Crucially, this year's festival will be free to attend, reflecting community feedback and the Chamber's commitment to accessibility. The Chamber is actively working to secure donations to fund the traditional fireworks display, a highlight for many attendees.

The Board statement:

"This scaled-back approach allows us to return to the festival's roots: celebrating our community and supporting our local businesses and non-profits. We are encouraging every local business and community group to activate their spaces and truly make this a vibrant hometown event."

The Chamber extends its sincere gratitude to the City of Rio Vista staff for their unwavering support and partnership over the years, which has been instrumental in the event's continuation. Their collaboration has been vital, especially with increasing security requirements.

The Chamber also deeply appreciates the sponsors who have already committed their support for 2025. The Chamber will be in direct communication with all registered sponsors and vendors to discuss the new event structure and options.

More Festival information on activities coming soon.

About the Rio Vista Chamber of Commerce: The Rio Vista Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to promoting the economic vitality and quality of life in Rio Vista through advocacy, community engagement, and business support.

Media Contact: (707) 374-2700 Rio Vista Chamber Office info@riovista.org, www.riovista.org, www.bassfestival.com