If you have been searching for the perfect way to shake off the July humidity, escape the confines of your air conditioned living room, and dance the night away under the stars, look no further. 

The highly anticipated Gates Four Summer Concert Series is returning this month to deliver exactly what the community needs. This premier seasonal event is bringing a massive hometown favorite back to the local stage to keep the summer vibes rolling, proving that there is absolutely no better place to be on a warm weekend evening than surrounded by great neighbors and incredible tunes.

Headlining the July showcase is none other than Rivermist, Fayetteville’s very own premier live entertainment powerhouse. Formed right here in Fayetteville back in 2014, Rivermist has spent more than a decade evolving from a passionate group of local musicians into one of the entire Southeast’s most respected and recognized live acts. 

If you have not yet experienced the phenomenon known across the Carolinas as a #RivermistParty, you are missing out on an extraordinarily high-energy musical journey. The band delivers an electrifying, genre-spanning mix of classic rock, rhythm and blues, modern pop, general variety, and timeless party favorites. Their diverse repertoire is specifically designed to capture the crowd's attention from the very first chord and hold it tightly until the final encore fades away.

This is far from your average local cover band. Rivermist is comprised of five exceptionally accomplished artists who boast a mind-boggling collective total of more than two hundred years of professional performing experience. The band's iconic sound is anchored by the formidable rhythm section of Greg Adair on drums and vocals alongside Tony Harrison on bass guitar and vocals. Together, they lock down a groove that is impossible not to move to. 

Adding layers of rich sound are Rick Starling on percussion, keys, and vocals, and Cliff Bender, who commands the lead guitar while adding his own vocal talents to the mix. 

Fronting this powerhouse lineup is Allen Pier, whose exceptional lead vocals and masterful keyboard playing serve as the focal point for the band's dynamic stage presence.

Because nearly every member contributes to the vocals, Rivermist is able to execute complex, powerful lead lines and jaw-dropping harmonies that few live bands can replicate. Their relentless dedication to delivering unforgettable performances night after night has also earned them the prestigious distinction of being voted Up & Coming Weekly's Best Local Band for eleven years. .

Rivermist is famous for their legendary live resume. They have commanded major festival stages, corporate events, historic theaters, high-energy clubs and intimate community celebrations all across the Carolinas. Among their most notable live milestones is a thrilling performance opening for pop-rock legend Rick Springfield at the Crown Theatre.  Every time they step into the spotlight, their mission remains exactly the same: deliver an unforgettable experience through infectious energy, genuine audience interaction, and a deep passion for entertainment. As the band likes to remind their fans: “Ain’t no party like a Rivermist Party… because a Rivermist party don’t stop.”

Mark your calendars, round up your friends, and clear your schedule for Saturday, July 25, because the Pavilion at Gates Four Country Club is officially turning into the ultimate weekend hotspot. The Pavilion offers a truly beautiful, safe, and incredibly spacious outdoor setting that is perfectly tailored for a magnificent summer evening. Perhaps the most incredible aspect of this entire event is that general admission is totally free to all residents of Fayetteville, Fort Bragg, and Cumberland County. 

The organizers wanted to ensure that this is a true community-wide celebration, meaning all you need to do is grab your favorite lawn chairs, gather your friends, family, children, and even your well-behaved pets for a gorgeous night of music under the open sky.

The event is structured to offer a smooth, stress-free, and highly enjoyable evening for attendees of all ages. The gates and doors will swing open at 5:30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to arrive early, secure the absolute best view of the stage, and mingle with fellow concertgoers. The musical entertainment officially kicks off at 7 p.m., allowing the band to play as the sun goes down and the evening air begins to cool.

To elevate the festival atmosphere, a variety of fantastic local food trucks will be parked on-site, offering a diverse array of delicious culinary treats to satisfy any craving. For those looking to enjoy a refreshing beverage, the venue features two full-service bars. 

Understanding that a July evening can occasionally become a bit too warm, Gates Four is also offering indoor dining spaces and fully air-conditioned indoor restrooms so you can beat the heat whenever you need a quick break. To add an extra element of excitement to the night, door prizes will be given away to lucky attendees throughout the evening.

While general admission is completely free, those looking to upgrade their night out can take advantage of premium ticketing options. If you want a guaranteed, stress-free spot close to the action, you can opt for Reserved Seating for just $20. For the ultimate concert experience, you can purchase Reserved Seating accompanied by a delicious, professionally prepared meal for only $35, allowing you to dinner-and-dance the night away without a care in the world.  Tickets for Reserved Seating, with or without a meal, can be purchased at fayettevilledinnertheatre.com 

World-class live music, food, drinks, and a vibrant community atmosphere come together to make this the undisputed highlight of the season. Come out and see for yourself exactly why Rivermist has reigned as the region's favorite band for over a decade.  

There is simply no better way to celebrate a July Saturday night than by supporting local artists and enjoying the premium hospitality of the Gates Four Country Club. 

(Photo: Rivermist, a Fayetteville Favorite, have been playing together since 2014. They have been an Up and Coming Weekly's Best of Fayetteville Winner for Best Local Band for several years. Photos courtesy of Greg Adair and Rivermist's Facebook page)