Wichitans are buzzing as Wichita events are finally reappearing after Covid-19’s yearlong halt on social activities. Excitement runs especially high with the return of the city’s beloved annual Riverfest. The chosen theme for this year is “The River Rocks Again,” featuring the 2020 Riverfest poster design produced by artist Meghan and Juanta Wolfe, the official artists of Riverfest 2020 and Riverfest 2021. Even though normalcy is slowly returning things are going to look slightly different at this year’s Riverfest for a few reasons.
“This year, in an effort to both accommodate festival fans who are eager to get out in the sunshine and keep attendees safe, the festival will be presented in two extended weekends,” according to the Wichita Riverfest official website, WichitaRiverfest.com.
The first half of Riverfest is occurring in June like usual, but only for three days beginning Friday, June 4, and ending Sunday, June 6. The second half of the event will take place at the end of Sept. with festivities beginning Thursday the 30 and ending Sunday, Oct. 3. The reason behind this decision is due to concerns about keeping participants safe by preventing the spread of Covid-19.
Another change to this year’s Riverfest is the formatting of events. June’s events will not offer a food court or other events in the downtown area, but there will be plenty for Wichitans to partake in.
“June 4-6 will feature mostly participatory events, including the Fidelity Bank River Run on Saturday, a Riverfest triathlon on Sunday, Paddle Board 5K and other river races, USA Softball tournaments, and a plein air painting festival throughout the weekend,” according to KWCH12’s article “Wichita Riverfest still a go, but here’s what you can expect in 2021.”
The events are intended to allow for effortless social distancing. Registration is open on Riverfest’s website and more information about these events can be found there as well. These participatory events will include a button with registration.
In addition to the participatory events, June’s Riverfest will host the Ad Astra Song Contest. The contest is open to everyone, no matter age, gender, background, or experience. Anyone interested in competing simply needs to submit a video performance of their original song by May 1. For the contest rule and to enter visit Riverfest’s website. The top four contestants, selected by Riverfest’s panel judges, will each receive a $500 prize. The top four will then move on to public voting via social media. The creator of the top song will perform at one of Riverfest’s future events.
As for the weekend in Sept. Riverfest will look similar to Riverfest’s of the past featuring an array of delicious food at the food court, big-name concerts, glittering fireworks, several kid’s events, and the Sundown Parade.
Admission button sales will begin in August for the fall events. To purchase an admissions buttons visit any QuikTrip location or wichitafestivalsshop.com. Adult buttons cost $10, kids over the age of 5 cost $5, and kids 5-year-old and younger are admitted free of charge. Those who bought buttons for last year’s Riverfest will be permitted to use them for this year’s event. However, these buttons will only be valid for the fall events. Specifics about Riverfest’s fall concerts and other activities will be released at a later date.
Rebecca Sisler 