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Five reasons you won't want to miss RiverFest

Each year the Fraser River Discovery Centre (FRDC), a non-profit organization devoted to presenting the stories of the Fraser River, coordinates and hosts the RiverFest event. Timed to coincide with B.C.
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Each year the Fraser River Discovery Centre (FRDC), a non-profit organization devoted to presenting the stories of the Fraser River, coordinates and hosts the RiverFest event. Timed to coincide with B.C. Rivers Day and World Rivers Day on September 22 – 24th, 2016, RiverFest features both educational exhibits about the river and fun activities over three days.

Stephen Bruyneel, Interim-Executive Director of the FRDC, highlights five reasons why you and your family will not want to miss this informative and fun weekend:

1.     Live music entertainment:

"In 2016," Stephen says, "we'll be hosting five independent artists who will perform busker-style, just carrying their instruments and a microphone." This arrangement means that RiverFest attendees will be able to enjoy a more intimate and up-close experience with the entertainers.

"We've had musicians perform on one stage before," notes Stephen, "but sometimes large crowds meant that some people missed out on the entertainment. This year, musicians will perform throughout the day and entertain on the boardwalk."

2.     The arts and artisan market:

On Saturday, September 24, RiverFest is partnering with the New Westminster Arts Council to feature over 30 unique vendors along the boardwalk selling arts and crafts.

3.     Bosa Family Fun Zone:

RiverFest is as much about fun as it is about education and information. There will be activities for children of all ages, including arts and crafts and some special events. "We're partnering with organizations such as Stream of Dreams, to bring some exciting activities to RiverFest," says Stephen. “There will be a fish painting station, gold panning with Yukon Dan, facepainting, and even drumming sessions in our Canyon Theatre”

4.     Lucille Johnstone Work Boat Parade:

Named after FRDC founding patron Lucille Johnstone, this a day for the working river to come out to play. At 1:00 on September 24, participating marine vessels will show their capabilities, agility, and speed as they manoeuver the waters of the Fraser River.

5.     Exhibitors for Thought:

The FRDC is partnering with local conservation and educational organizations, such as the Vancouver Aquarium and the Yale Historic Site, to celebrate the Fraser River. "We want to generate discussion and get people really thinking about the long-term importance of the River. There will be booths set up and presentations," says Stephen.

For more information about the Fraser River Discovery Centre and RiverFest, call 604.521.8401, check out the webpage, send them an email, or visit the Centre at 788 Quayside Drive, New Westminster. The FRDC can also be found on Facebook and Twitter.