Riverfest to continue this afternoon in California
CALIFORNIA, PA — Riverfest is becoming one of Southwestern Pennsylvania’s most popular community festivals — and for good reason. The two-day block party features a wide range of activities for the entire family, from food to music to crafts, as well as a spectacular fireworks display.
“There’s something for everybody at RiverFest,” said Ashley Roth, president of the California Borough Recreation Authority, which is co-sponsoring the sixth annual Riverfest event with California University of Pennsylvania.
“Kids enjoy the games and face painting, while adults like to shop and listen to the music. It’s the ultimate block party.”
Jim Seaman, a resident of Belle Vernon and owner of Scratch Living Coffee, was one of dozens of vendors who set up their booths on Wood Street. He enjoys socializing with other vendors and getting to know many of the visitors.”
“Riverfest is a great way to bring all the Mon Valley’s river towns together,” he said. “It’s nice to see familiar faces and meet many new people.”
Riverfest is also popular with students from California University of Pennsylvania. Eddie Kuntz, a senior, took a break from moving back into the campus, to enjoy the festivities.
“This is my third Riverfest and they keep getting bigger and better,” he said. “I especially look forward to seeing all the bands perform. It’s an awesome event.”
This year, Riverfest coincided with the “New Beginnings Paddle” — a seven-mile paddle on the Monongahela River that started at California and ended in Belle Vernon.
Gerald Jackson, mayor of Belle Vernon, who helped with transportation arrangements for the paddle, said many out-of-town visitors are learning that the Mon Valley is a must-see tourist destination.
“The Monongahela River is one of our area’s greatest assets,” he said.
“It’s a great place to do some boating or fishing. Belle Vernon was happy to be a part of this event.”