9th Annual Catawba RiverFest

The 9th Annual Catawba RiverFest will be held this year on Saturday, Sept. 15, at Lake James State Park: Paddy’s Creek Area. The festival is FREE to the public. For generations, the Catawba River has shaped the economic vitality of the region and remains a public commons of immeasurable recreational value. Today, however, the river faces competing interests, including power generation, public water supply, waste assimilation, recreation and critical aquatic wildlife habitat. With increasing attention on the challenges facing the Catawba River, grassroots efforts are underway to protect this valuable natural resource. Catawba RiverFest will promote a greater appreciation of this vital waterway. The day-long event will highlight a variety of conservation groups and their ongoing projects working to improve the quality of life for people and animals along the river.

Some of the festival highlights include a rehabilitated raptor release by the Carolina Raptor Center, bluegrass by Strictly Clean and De- cent of Lenoir, Eco Tours of Lake James and a midday water derby competition for all ages, to include an obstacle course and a lake race.

Sponsors of this festival include Catawba Valley Heritage Alliance, Lake James State Park and Friends of Lake James State Park.