The Fraser River will be jumping with activity as the new RiverFest takes to the waterfront this weekend.
RiverFest merges FraserFest and Artists on the River into one action-packed event that includes live music and entertainment, art exhibits and interactive activities from conservation organizations and community groups.
"It is taking the best elements of both and bringing them together for a cause," said Cindy Sale, chair of the RiverFest committee.
Two favourites from the FraserFest - the Lucille Johnstone workboat parade and harbour tours aboard the MV Native - will be featured at the first RiverFest event. The workboat parade will take place on Saturday, Sept. 29 around 3: 30 p.m.
The Hyack Festival Association and Fraser River Discovery Centre are producing Riverfest: Inspired by the Fraser. The festival is offered in partnership with the City of New Westminster and the Arts Council of New Westminster.
RiverFest gets underway on Friday, Sept. 28 from 6 to 9 p.m., when River Market merchants will offer food specials and Razz Ma Jazz Trio plays on the main stage. The official opening of RiverFest takes place at 7 p.m. near Discovery Centre, and includes the unveiling of 25 new interpretive panels that the centre has been working on.
RiverFest kicks into high gear on Saturday, Sept. 29 with a jam-packed day of entertainment on the main stage. Andrew Allen, the event's headliner, has had two Top 10 hits in Canada, with 2009's I Wanna Be Your Christmas and 2010's Loving You Tonight.
"We are absolutely delighted with the YVR main stage lineup," said Douglas Smith, executive director of the Hyack Festival Association. "By collaborating with our friends at the Fraser River Discovery Centre and our presenting sponsor, Port Metro Vancouver, we've been able to finalize an entertainment lineup that is second to none."
The RiverFest entertainment lineup includes: Chris Hamilton (11 a.m.); Ronald McDonald Magic Show (11: 40 a.m.); Lester Quitzau (noon); Catlow (1 p.m.); The Matinee (2 p.m.); The Washboard Union (3 p.m.); Headwater (4 p.m.); and Allen (5 p.m.). In addition to entertainment on the main stage, conservation organization and community groups will provide interactive activities along the Fraser River, including building a wood boat and making a river lantern from recycled pop bottles. Children are invited to take part in a Stream of Dreams project that involves painting wooden fish that will be displayed on the fence between Discovery Centre and Westminster Pier Park.
"There are lots of things for kids to do," Sale said. "Everybody can come and paint a fish and help us add to that legacy. . It also leaves a gentle reminder that we need to look after these beautiful animals."
People are invited to tour the Samson V Maritime Museum from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Throughout the day, artists will display, sell and demonstrate their artwork
"It is all focused around the river and the environment," Sale said. "There will be lots of artists here."
River Market will be offering space for displays and performances inside, as well as face painting for kids.
