The 17th Annual RiverFest is returning to Historic St. Mary’s City on Saturday, September 28, 2024. The festival is free and open to the public, and will take place from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The RiverFest celebration begins with a ceremonial river wade in honor of Bernie Fowler at 2 p.m., and will include a tour of the Maryland Dove and the Pride of Balitmore II. Those who attend can also learn about the life of a waterman with oyster mongering demonstrations.
For those who enjoy nature, Raptor’s Eye will be performing live birds of prey, and Chad Day will be showing off his expert Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. The demonstrations are set to take place at 12 p.m., 1 p.m., and 2:30 p.m. on the State House lawn.
In addition to the live animals, there will be a number of live interactive exhibits and activities for all ages. Visitors can walk through exhibits on the history of the St. Mary’s River, learn how to collect rainwater, and make their own Secchi Disk.
The RiverFest celebration also features live music, which will be provided by local talent groups such as David Norris, Billy Breslin, the Chesapeake Public Charter School Fourth Grade choir, and Indian Summer. The event is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the St. Mary’s River and its history.