For 30 years, the Grateful Dead were an American musical institution.  Born out of a decade of social upheaval and consciousness expanding, the group sparked the creation of an unparalleled sub-culture of loyally devoted enthusiasts.  More than just another band, the Grateful Dead became a way of life for thousands of self-proclaimed Deadheads.

For decades, Grateful Dead shows had served as a community-building institution where followers of the group could revel with friends both old and new.  But when Jerry Garcia passed away in the summer of 1995, many fans were left with a void in their lives.  Terrapin Tapes, a media distribution outlet for live concert tapers and traders, decided to do something to fill that void.

In 1996, Terrapin threw a memorial party for Garcia at SUNY Purchase.  Aptly named "Deadhead Heaven - A Gathering of the Tribe", the event provided a forum for music lovers to celebrate the life of the Grateful Dead frontman and reunite for a weekend of spiritual renewal.  In 1997, the festival relocated to Croton Point Park, NY and was re-named "Gathering of the Vibes." 

In each of the years since, Gathering of the Vibes has carried the spirit of these initial events forward by creating wholly unique musical experiences for attendees from far and wide.  The folks who come to the Vibes annually to build and renew their bonds of friendship comprise the community that has affectionately become known as the Vibe Tribe.

After moving to Plattsburg, NY for GOTV 1998, the Vibes found what seemed to be a natural home for the annual event at Seaside Park in Bridgeport, CT in 1999 & 2000.  In 2000, Bob Weir became the first Grateful Dead alumni to grace the Vibes’ stage, performing both with his band Ratdog and in a memorable sit-in with bass virtuoso Les Claypool.

In 2001, as Seaside Park began to undergo major renovations, the Vibes moved to Red Hook, NY for its most well-attended event to date.  Following the year in Red Hook, the Vibes took up a five-year residency at Indian Lookout Country Club in Mariaville, NY from 2002 through 2006, highlighted by an incredible two-night performance by Phil Lesh & Friends over Independence Day weekend 2002.

In 2007, Gathering of the Vibes came home to Seaside Park, re-kindling the magic of the unforgettable 1999 & 2000 shows.  With the help of the Vibe Tribe and the generous support of the City of Bridgeport, we look forward to Vibes 2008 at this exceptional venue on the shores of Long Island Sound.