Abbey Road on the River
If you're a Beatles fan, Abbey Road on the River should be a destination on your next RV trip. It is a multi-day event that pays tribute to the iconic band.
Event information
Abbey Road on the River (AROTR) is a multi-day music festival that takes place in Jeffersonville, Indiana every year. The idea behind the event is to honor and showcase the music of the Beatles and carry the spirit of the era forward. AROTR has won the Kentucky Travel Industry Association's Top 10 Spring Festivals award four times in the past.
The inaugural event took place over the memorial day weekend in Louisville, Kentucky, and was moved to Jeffersonville in 2017. The music of The Beatles, as well as other songs, are performed by tribute bands over the five days that the festival takes place. In addition to the tribute bands, some other internationally recognized artists also bring their music to Abbey Road on the River.
Abbey Road on the River had humble beginnings as a small tribute festival but has evolved into a considerably larger mixed genre event over the years. In addition to honoring The Beatles, the concerts also showcase the music of other artists of the era such as Bruce Springsteen.
Denny Laine, Jefferson Starship, The Beach Boys, John Sebastian, Herman's Hermits, Felix Cavaliere's Rascals, The Zombies, and Terry Sylvester are some of the artists who have performed at Abbey Road on the River in the past. Camping near the festival lands you near the Ohio River, amidst historical landmarks, and close to the heart of Louisville, Kentucky.
Tickets
Abbey Road on the River places single-day, two-day, and five-day tickets on offer. They range in price from $40 (One Day General Admission tickets) to $ 220 (Five Day Ultimate Ticket To Ride passes). Passes for independently produced concerts will have to be purchased separately.
Children and guests under the age of 21 will need to carry a ticket. Parking passes are also available for sale on the website. No refunds will be given. However, if you do purchase a ticket and cannot make it to the festival for some reason, you do have the option of exchanging your pass for a ticket to next year's event. Check out the official website for more information on tickets and pricing.
Explore Abbey Road on the River RV Rentals
Transportation
Driving
The Big Four Station Park located at Market and Pearl Streets in downtown Jeffersonville serves as the venue for the festival. The site lies at the foot of a Pedestrian Bridge that connects the Jeffersonville and Louisville waterfronts. If you plan on driving to the venue, direct your GPS or smartphone app to the Big Four Station Park.
Parking areas
There are plenty of paid and free parking options less than half a mile away from the venue. You can choose from public lots, street parking, or private lots. Remember to check the height and length of your rig for reference when choosing a spot. It's a good idea to purchase an all weekend parking pass on the festival website. These are reasonably priced, and allow in and out access at any time of day.
Public Transportation
You can reach the festival venue by bus. There are plenty of bus routes that will get you close to the site. You also of have the option of biking to the venue or jumping into a taxi and getting dropped at one of the designated drop-off points.
Where to stay
Onsite
Camping is not permitted at Big Four Station Park. It's recommended to book a spot early at one of the RV parks or campgrounds nearby.
Nearby
The closest campground is about a five-minute drive from the festival area. Apart from this site, which gives you quick and easy access, there are a couple of other well-equipped RV parks in the area. These come with all the conveniences you may enjoy like digital cable TV, pool access, and full hookups. Hoosier National Forest is also about 45 minutes to the west and welcomes RV campers to enjoy the trees after a day at Life Is Beautiful.
Getting around
Scooters, bikes, or personalized motor vehicles of any kind will not be permitted on the grounds. Strollers are allowed if you have young children with you. There are a few shuttle services from some of the larger hotels to the venue. The site is fully accessible; however, some areas are easier to move through than others since it is quite large.
What to pack
Clothing
It's best to keep your attire casual and comfortable for Abbey Road on the River. It may get quite warm during the day, so lightweight, breathable fabrics are recommended. Make sure you put on a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. It's a good idea to wear comfortable shoes or sandals since you're likely to be walking around all day.
Gear
Some items that will come in handy are a hat, sunscreen, flip-flops, and a portable charger. If you have kids with you, carry earplugs to protect their sensitive ears. Also, take a sweater or jacket in case it gets chilly after sundown. You will be allowed to bring in a lawn chair, but this can only be used in designated grassy areas.
Health & Safety
Carry an empty reusable water bottle with you and refill it frequently at one of the water refill stations present on the venue. Take regular breaks by ducking into a shade tent. These will be marked out on the festival map. You may be allowed to carry an umbrella to protect yourself from the sun or rain. However, these are not permitted in the reserved areas.
Where to eat
Cooking
RV parks and campgrounds in the area allow cooking on a small portable grill or the stove associated with your RV. Open fires or digging cooking pits may depend on your campground. Call your chosen RV park to find out about the restrictions, if any, in advance. Cooking at Big Four Station Park is not be permitted.
Restaurants
Jeffersonville is a charming city steeped in tradition and history. You'll find some quaint cafes and great bakeries serving up delicious baked goods. If traditional southern comfort food is more up your alley, head to one of the established local eateries. You can also grab a drink and some delicious pub grub at one of the many bars in the area.
Vendors
Whether you're in the mood for southern comfort food or exotic world cuisine, you find it at Abbey Road on the River. Some unmissable delights are the fire-roasted corn on the cob, double burgers, and cheesy fries. Cool off with one of the many alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages on offer at this fun festival.
Safety
Security
Festival organizers work with the City of Jeffersonville safety forces to implement high standards of safety. All the perimeter streets will be secured, and the outdoor sites will be fenced. Security personnel will check every bag and person before entry. A strict no weapon, no carry policy will be enforced.
Weather
Most of the performances at Abbey Road on the River will take place outdoors. The festival will remain open and continue with regular operations if it rains. However, if the weather turns dangerous, the concerts may be canceled or postponed. If an entire day is canceled because of adverse conditions, you will be allowed to use your pass on the following day.
Medical
A First Aid Station provided by Clark Memorial Hospital will be present at a central location. It will also be clearly marked on the festival map. Outside food will not be allowed unless it's for children or adults with dietary restrictions. Organizers work to make sure that patrons with disabilities are accommodated. They can be contacted in advance for any queries related to accessibility.
