RiverFest Returns!

After taking a break during last year’s untimely arrival of Hurricane Florence, the annual Catawba RiverFest will resume its 16- year run on Sept. 21. It’s going to be an opportunity to highlight conservation, community and economic organizations celebrating the park system and the Catawba River Basin and its critical importance to the quality of life we all enjoy.

The festival will take place in and around the lower parking lot near the concession stand at the Paddy’s Creek Area, between the hours of 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Information and interactive booths of area conservation, outdoor recreation and historic organizations will help visitors understand and appreciate the story of the river, how it has shaped the region and the many challenges it faces today.

The much-anticipated 9-foot kayak package will once again be raffled off, with proceeds going to support the Friends of Lake James State Park. Raffle tickets are available now for purchase at the Lake James State Park concession stand on weekends and Paddy’s Creek Area office Fridays through Mondays, as well as during the event.

Musical entertainment will occur throughout the day, courtesy of Alan Darveaux with Slight Departure. Local food vendors will have a variety of lunch options available and the park concession stand will be open throughout the day, selling snacks, ice cream and refreshments to the masses.

As an added entertainment bonus, the park is also hosting another “Jam’n on James” concert at the swim beach. All are welcome to enjoy this free show featuring “Grandma’s Medicine.” The music starts at 6 p.m. and continues until 8 p.m. (See inside poster.)

The Catawba RiverFest is sponsored by Lake James State Park, Friends of Lake James State Park, Duke Energy, Catawba Valley Heritage Alliance and Burke County. More information can be found at https://www.facebook.com/ FriendsOfLakeJamesStatePark or call (828) 584-7728.