Watershed celebrates another year at the Gorge
A concert attendee screams with excitement as Zach Top enters the main stage Saturday night.
NANCE BESTON/COLUMBIA BASIN HERALD
“Shedders” sit and lay on the hill overlooking the Columbia River and enjoy the sounds of country music Saturday at the Watershed Festival. Shedders is the nickname for festival attendees.
Bryce Leatherwood performs on the “Next from Nashville” stage Saturday at Watershed Festival. The stage held several smaller performers over the weekend.
A group of shedders dance to the twang of the guitar Saturday at Watershed Festival.
The Chase Matthews Band performs early afternoon Saturday.
Two shedders enjoy the slip and slide. There were several other lawn games, sprinklers and ways for attendees to stay cool and entertained.
Zach Top launches into the second song of his set at Watershed.
Three shedders hug as they watch the Chase Matthews Band perform.
Concert goers rocking American Flag overalls walk to the main stage. Each day of Watershed there were costume contests.
The pit and grassy hill filled with eager “Shedders” at Zach Top begins his set.
Two concertgoers swing dance to the Chase Mathews Band. There were also opportunities to line dance, both coordinated by the Watershed Festival and impromptu by “Shedders.”
Shedders wave their cowboy hats in the air as the music plays.
A concertgoer takes a photo of her friends at the main stage of Watershed Festival Saturday.
Two shedders enjoy the view of the Columbia Basin at the Gorge Amphitheatre.
GEORGE — Over the weekend, the Gorge Amphitheatre became the ultimate country paradise as the Watershed Music Festival took center stage. With breathtaking views of the Columbia River Gorge serving as a backdrop, fans flocked to experience an electrifying line-up featuring stars such as Jason Aldean, Dierks Bentley, Bailey Zimmerman and many more.
The musical celebration kicked off Friday with a show-stopping performance by Aldean, who headlined a day that included rising talents such as Nate Smith and Raelynn. As the sun set behind the towering cliffs, festivalgoers grooved to the sounds of their favorite country hits, feeling the excitement pulse through the crowd like a twangy guitar solo.
In addition to the main stage, attendees had the opportunity to discover the “Next from Nashville” stage, showcasing a curated roster of emerging artists. Newcomers like Logan Crosby and Spencer Crandall offered fresh sounds that contributed to the festival’s vibrant atmosphere. This second stage has become a staple of the Watershed experience, inviting fans to witness the stars of tomorrow today.
Between sets, festivalgoers found relief and refreshment at various vendors and hangout spots, including the T-Mobile Club Magenta, where guests could recharge with complimentary drinks and fun giveaways. The CELSIUS Saloon provided a lively breather, where festivalgoers could grab a cold can and snap photos to capture their memories in the moment.
As the party continued, attendees could kick up their boots and join the Moon Shine Line Dancers for daily line dancing lessons — an homage to the roots of country culture. Nearby, Shedderville offered a welcoming atmosphere for those looking to connect with fellow “Shedders,” as friendships blossomed against the backdrop of live music and laughter.
For those seeking a little excitement amidst the tunes, the festival also hosted events such as the Dating Game, where love was in the air. Participants answered questions for a chance to win a VIP date, adding an unexpected twist to the weekend festivities. The T-Mobile Redneck Waterpark was another highlight, providing entertainment with water gun fights and slip 'n slides for both the young and young-at-heart.
With an eclectic mix of music, camaraderie and adventure, this year’s Watershed can’t be beaten. As audiences enjoyed the soulful sounds of country music from their favorite artists, it’s clear that the festival offers not just tunes, but an unforgettable experience that brings country fans together — one boot-scootin' moment at a time.
“Shedders” sit and lay on the hill overlooking the Columbia River and enjoy the sounds of country music Saturday at the Watershed Festival. Shedders is the nickname for festival attendees.
Bryce Leatherwood performs on the “Next from Nashville” stage Saturday at Watershed Festival. The stage held several smaller performers over the weekend.
A group of shedders dance to the twang of the guitar Saturday at Watershed Festival.
The Chase Matthews Band performs early afternoon Saturday.
Two shedders enjoy the slip and slide. There were several other lawn games, sprinklers and ways for attendees to stay cool and entertained.
Zach Top launches into the second song of his set at Watershed.
Three shedders hug as they watch the Chase Matthews Band perform.
Concert goers rocking American Flag overalls walk to the main stage. Each day of Watershed there were costume contests.
The pit and grassy hill filled with eager “Shedders” at Zach Top begins his set.
Two concertgoers swing dance to the Chase Mathews Band. There were also opportunities to line dance, both coordinated by the Watershed Festival and impromptu by “Shedders.”
Shedders wave their cowboy hats in the air as the music plays.
A concertgoer takes a photo of her friends at the main stage of Watershed Festival Saturday.
Two shedders enjoy the view of the Columbia Basin at the Gorge Amphitheatre.