The Riverfest Commodores are a distinguished group of individuals who not only make a difference in the community but also have the honor of reigning over the annual Riverfest celebration. Each year, a deserving couple is carefully chosen to serve as the Commodore and First Mate, recognizing their outstanding contributions and leadership to the community.
As the ambassadors of Riverfest, they play a vital role in promoting the festival and its values of unity, joy, and community spirit. Beyond their responsibilities during the celebration, the Commodores actively engage in charitable efforts, particularly focusing on supporting foundations and children in need. The Riverfest Commodores are truly remarkable individuals who leave a lasting impact not only during their reign over Riverfest but throughout the year as they continue to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
MORE ABOUT RIVERFEST
FOOD. FAMILY. FUN
Established in 1983 to create and hold a family festival with “something for everyone”. Held annually in Riverside Park over the 4th of July weekend. Riverfest should encourage citizens for the La Crosse area to celebrate the holiday at home and invite visitors from outside the area to join us for fireworks, entertainment, food and festivities and to encourage La Crosse area citizens to realize the beauty of this area with the parks and rivers. For more information visit their site at www.riverfestlacrosse.com
43rd Annual Riverfest Commodore and First Mate
As La Crosse Riverfest prepares for its historic 2026 edition, the Commodores
and First Mates are proud to welcome Misty and Mitch Lown as the newest couple to join their ranks.
The Lowns will serve as the 39th Commodore and First Mate in the festival’s history.
“We’re really just here to serve — together, as we always have,” said Misty Lown. “Riverfest represents everything I love about La Crosse in one week. It’s a celebration of our country, our community, our river, and the spirit of volunteerism that makes this area so special.”
A self-described “Northsider at heart,” Misty recalls growing up in La Crosse with fond memories of Franklin Elementary, and Logan Middle and High School, as well as the North Side Library, and countless bike rides throughout the city.
Mitch, who grew up near the university area, remembers
spending his youth exploring Hixon Forest, the marsh, and the La Crosse River while building lifelong friendships through neighborhood activities and sports at Logan High School.
The pair first met in algebra class at Logan High School and later attended prom together. Today, they are proud parents of five children — Isabella, Mason, Sam, Max, and Ben — and describe themselves as “Rangers raising Rangers.”
Their professional and volunteer accomplishments have made a lasting impact throughout the region. Misty, founder of Misty’s Dance Unlimited, has dedicated nearly three decades to arts education, mentorship, and expanding access to dance opportunities for local youth through scholarship programs, inclusive programming, and partnerships with organizations including the Boys & Girls
Clubs. She also helped lead the popular “Dancing with the La Crosse Stars” fundraiser, which raised more than $400,000 for the American Red Cross.
“My entire career and personal mission has always been about strengthening our community by strengthening our kids and families,” Misty said. “Riverfest is such a great opportunity for families to put down their screens, gather together, and experience the best of our community.”
Mitch spent 15 years as a technology education teacher before launching several successful businesses, including Ironside Self Storage. He also founded Global Groundwork, a nonprofit organization in Haiti that teaches vocational skills and supports community construction projects. Locally, he has volunteered with the La Crosse Dive Team, Boy Scouts, community warming shelters,
and numerous service initiatives.
Misty also reflected on becoming the first woman to serve as Riverfest Commodore. “While it may be new for a woman to wear the official captain’s hat, it’s certainly not new in our community for men and women to work together for a good cause,” she said. “It matters that young girls in our community can truly see that they can become anything they want to be.”