A familiar name in Fresno’s event scene is launching something new — and sober.

Evan Nebeker, original co-founder of Grizzly Fest, is now organizing Grand Rising, a wellness-focused day party that swaps booze for cold brew and raving for revitalization. The event, set for Saturday, Aug. 9 at Invictus Ink, will feature DJs, healthy eats, and wellness vendors — all without alcohol.

“Everything is alcohol based — it’s just the truth of it,” Nebeker said.

The event, running from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m., aims to offer an inclusive space where people can connect without the pressure or presence of alcohol. “We’re not telling people not to drink,” he said. “But we’re just not serving it here.”

Nebeker is applying lessons from past events and similar sober parties held in cities like Glendale and Miami.

Local Vendors to Join Grand Rising

Grand Rising will include cold brews and artisanal coffee from local vendor Loving Seed, alongside avocado toast, açaí bowls, and non-fried food options.

Additional vendors include Hydroot (tea and honey), Wright Wellness (offering free gut health consults for women), and a mobile drip doctor providing vitamin hydration drips.

Children are also welcome. “We’re adding face painting — it’s free — and other stuff too,” he said. “We’re trying to show you these things can happen.”

The DJ lineup includes DJ Bambi spinning house music at 9 a.m., followed by Domsolo and DJ Kay Rich during the peak hours between 10 and noon. A custom-built DJ booth adorned with bamboo and plants will anchor the dance floor.

With shade structures, misters, branded handheld fans, and a focus on intentional design, Nebeker says attendees can expect a polished experience.

“We’re going ham on this, ” he added. “Everything is as if this was a 1,500-person show — and it’s only 150 to 200 people.”

Though the event features support from sponsors like Embark, a cannabis dispensary, Nebeker emphasized the focus is on CBD and pain relief — not THC. “We’re not pushing THC products,” he said.

Above all, Grand Rising is meant to be a safe, welcoming space.

“It’s going to be extremely high-vibration positivity,” Nebeker said. “Everything should feel very intentional — from the feel, to the flow, to the movement.”

Tickets are more than halfway sold and available through Posh.

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