A long-standing community festival celebrating the South River received a boost in funding from the Virginia Tourism Corporation.
Riverfest, which will be held on May 1-2 in Waynesboro, received a $5,000 grant from VTC for the 2026 festival.
To kick off this year’s Riverfest festivities, a film screening of “Hidden Rivers” will be offered at the Wayne Theatre on Friday night.
The festival will be held on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Constitution Park and will include reptile shows, a stream safari, canoe rides, a fishing rodeo, arts and crafts and more. The day will conclude with the Great South River Duck Race.
Residents and visitors from surrounding counties and neighboring states combine to draw approximately 3,000 people to the event each year.
“Riverfest is one of Waynesboro’s signature celebrations, bringing residents and visitors together along our beautiful riverfront,” said Stephanie Duffy, assistant director of Economic Development & Tourism for the City of Waynesboro.
“Events like Riverfest drive tourism, support local businesses and strengthen our community’s economic vitality.”
In this grant cycle, VTC awarded nearly $900,000 in matching grant funds to 88 special events and festivals. The grant program is designed to increase visitor spending and promote overnight visitation.
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Crystal Graham
