Flash back 35 years to October 4-6, 1979 when a group of local citizens interested in the arts and Wilmington’s riverfront staged its first Riverfest, a free cultural street festival. With four concessions, trolley rides, and fireworks, Riverfest was a success and became an annual event.
Today’s Riverfest remains true to its roots as a family-friendly, cultural festival. It now boasts a half-mile of free entertainment with more than 200 craft vendors, concessions, continuous entertainment, fireworks, a Kidz Zone, exhibitions, and special events.
With the Cape Fear River as its focus, Riverfest captures the river’s heritage, culture, and natural beauty. According to festival organizers, this year’s theme – “Celebrating 35 Years on the River” – focuses on the festival’s milestone anniversary.
Riverfest’s 35th anniversary celebration begins on Friday, October 4 with a Garden Party (11am-3pm) at Greenfield Lake’s Rotary Garden, home of the world’s largest rotary wheel.
As always, kids rule at Riverfest with the ever-popular Kidz Zone at the Cotton Exchange, with free family activities such as face/hair painting, balloon art, games, amusements, arts/crafts, clowns, rides, obstacle course, mascots, live entertainment, and more. Older kids will enjoy the Adventure Zone.
For more information about Riverfest 2013, October 4-6, visit www.wilmingtonriverfest.com or for details of the area click on Wilmington, N.C.’s Historic River District and the Island Beaches of Carolina Beach, Kure Beach, Wrightsville Beach.
Visitors can call 866-266-9690 or email visit@wilmingtonandbeaches.com to request a free Official Visitors Guide.
For more information about top events in North Carolina take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in North Carolina