In a remarkable display of resilience, Christine Coleman and Peter Perales, both in their mid-40s, have turned their passion for nomadic camping and music festivals into a vibrant event that celebrates van culture and reggae music. The couple, who work full-time in apparel design and construction, respectively, in Beaverton, Oregon, organized the Rigs and Reggae event at Pier 39 in Astoria from August 27 to 30. This event marks the third year of the festival, which was initially held in Toledo, Oregon.
For a decade, Coleman and Perales have been avid attendees of van-centric music events, logging over 100 concerts and festivals. Their journey from enthusiasts to organizers is a testament to their unwavering commitment to their hobby and their incredible personal struggles. "It was death," Perales admitted, reflecting on his diagnosis with a brain tumor at the beginning of the pandemic. Despite facing a life-threatening illness, the couple's love for their hobby never waned.
Their journey to recovery was long and arduous. Perales endured months of hospital stays, surgeries, and rehabilitation, learning to walk and regain use of his arm. "Finally, my doctor said 'okay you can go back to work,' and I went back to work and I worked really hard and I bought my van like I said I was going to," Perales explained. The van, a "Storyteller" adventure and camper manufactured by Storyteller Overland, became a symbol of their newfound freedom and a catalyst for their next adventure.
However, their journey was not without setbacks. Just as they were planning to take a break from organizing the event due to Perales' second craniotomy in December, they received an unexpected opportunity. "These van events happen a lot in the summertime," Coleman recalled. "So we went to one of them, and the owners of Pier 39 saw us there and they said we'd love to have (the Rigs and Reggae event) here in Astoria."
With only 30 days to prepare, the couple faced a daunting challenge. "We were going to take a year off because of my surgery," Perales said, "but I mean, I feel recovered. I'm fully back to work. We're like, sure, we're ready. So we had 30 days to put this together." Despite the tight timeline, the event was a success, drawing attendees from near and far to enjoy the music, camping, and camaraderie.
The Rigs and Reggae event is more than just a music festival; it's a celebration of the van culture and the spirit of adventure. "We decided on a 'Storyteller,' an adventure and camper van," Coleman said. "Along with our two mini Australian shepherds, Max and Maisie, we began attending van events in our new rig." The festival serves as a gathering place for like-minded individuals to share their experiences and forge new friendships.
Perales' journey through his battles with brain tumors has given him a unique perspective on life. "I've already had one (craniotomy) so when they found the second (tumor) I'm like let's just go in there and get it out. And it was good because my doctor said it was small enough and had not attached to brain tissue yet, so it was amazing. I'm so glad to be here now," he said. "I just have such a more appreciation for the smaller things now … you know what I mean?"
The couple's story is an inspiration to all who face adversity. Through their passion and perseverance, they have created a memorable event that celebrates life, love, and the joy of adventure. The Rigs and Reggae event in Astoria is a shining example of how the human spirit can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
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