Local Artists and Business Owners Showcased at the 11th Annual Rockland Music Fest

(POMONA, NY.) — Clover Stadium was filled with live music, local vendors and community spirit as the Rockland Music Fest celebrated its 11th year in a new home. What seems like a welcome relocation after a decade in Stony Point, the festival moved nearly 10 miles to Pomona in order to allow more creative space for performers and small businesses, organizers said. 

Rockland Music Fest attendees gather on the field as local act takes the stage.
[Credit: Alex Davis]

“We needed more room, but we also needed to grow the movement,” Ossa said. “Rockland Music Fest has always been about healing through music. There’s so much happening in the world that divides people…but here, we’re reminded of what connects us.”

While around 15% of the 6,362 seating capacity of Clover Stadium was used, the energy among the crowd was high. Food trucks lined the stadium lot, small businesses shared their crafts, and performers brought a mix of rock, rockabilly, hip-hop, and opera to the stage.

At one vendor table, Irma Josassaint, a business owner originally from Haiti displayed jars of her handmade skincare infused with rosemary, carrot, and lemon. 

“It’s amazing to be here,” Josassaint said in between speaking with festivalgoers about her products. “I’m still managing inventory out of my own pocket, but I believe in my products. I want people to see me giving something good to the community…something natural, something real.”

Small business owner Irma Josassaint stands at her booth showcasing handmade soaps and skincare products.
[Credit: Alex Davis]

As the day went on, Devin Dwyer, who goes by the artist name AK40DEVIN,  took the mic. A Rockland native, Ak40DEVIN made history as the first hip-hop artist to ever perform at the festival. 

“I just want people to feel inspired,” said AK40DEVIN. “I’ve done a ton of gigs but being home, surrounded by my community means everything, especially for the kids watching.”

The lineup also featured Luis Apaza-Saavedra, known professionally as Ayoo Chill, a New Jersey artist who opened the event by performing the national anthem and later stunned the audience with an opera-infused set. His Rockland journey began when Ossa heard him sing at a local mall two years ago. 

“I’ve fallen in love with this community,” said Chill. “Usually I’m performing in small bars, but to sing in a stadium and hear my voice echo—it’s incredible!”

Chill’s goal is to reintroduce audiences to classical music in new spaces.

 “If one person goes home and shows their kid a video of opera or live instruments, I’ve done my job because this music connects generations,” stated Chill.

Beyond the music, the festival spotlighted Meals on Wheels of Rockland County, celebrating its 50th anniversary. 

“Funding from events like this goes right back into our programs,” said Sharon Martini, Director of Development and Community Engagement. “We deliver meals to people who can’t shop or cook for themselves, and our senior centers provide food, exercise and dancing. It keeps people healthy and connected.”

Martini said visibility is just as valuable as money in terms of donations and outreach that may increase the number of volunteers.

“Our volunteers check in every day, and sometimes they literally save lives by doing wellness checks. They are our unsung heroes,” Martini said.

Volunteers of Rockland County Meals on Wheels smile for a picture at their outreach table.
[Credit: Alex Davis]

Jeff Babcock, a lifelong Rockland resident, was beaming ear to ear as he sat with his girlfriend. 

“At least for me, it’s about Tom Ossa,” Babcock said. “I’m a huge lover of music and I believe in what Tom’s doing. He’s bringing people together and possibly boosting the local economy.” 

More attendees appeared to enter the stadium for the headliners: Magical Mystery Doors, a tribute band blending The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, and The Doors. 

“I just hope it keeps growing,” Ossa said. “As long as people keep showing up, we’ll keep playing.”